U.S. Withdrawal from Multilateral Institutions
The Trump administration pursued an "America First" policy, signaling a retreat from multilateralism.
This involved moves to withdraw from organizations like the WHO, UNHRC, and the Paris Climate Agreement.
The Disengaging Entirely from the United Nations Debacle (DEFUND) Act proposed by a U.S. senator aimed to withdraw the U.S. from the UN.
Sanctions were imposed against the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Impact on International Cooperation and Law
These actions threaten the legitimacy and function of international institutions like the UN and ICC.
Withdrawal and sanctions undermine multilateral political cooperation, which is essential for a rules-based international order.
The ICC sanctions contradict the U.S.'s historical role in establishing international justice mechanisms, like the Nuremberg Tribunal.
Nuremberg Trials, following the Second World War, to hold individuals accountable for crimes such as genocide, war crimes etc.
The devaluation of international institutions will have negative effects on global issues like climate change, health, and human rights.
Economic Nationalism and Trade Disputes
The administration's economic nationalism led to aggressive tariffs, reminiscent of 1930s protectionism.
This approach jeopardizes the multilateral trading system established by the WTO.
The U.S. actions, like blocking appointments to the WTO Appellate Body, are creating an existential crisis for the organization.
Global Reactions and Opportunities
The U.S. risks retaliation and may find its "America First" agenda hindered by a lack of international cooperation.
This situation presents an opportunity for non-western nations, like India, to assume leadership roles in upholding multilateralism.
India has reinforced the importance of multilateralism and international law, and sees an opportunity to push for reform of the UNSC.
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