A Timeline
The United States' relationship with the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has been marked by periods of both engagement and withdrawal. As of January 1, 2025, the United States is no longer a member of the Council, having completed its three-year term.
The US served on the Council from January 1, 2022, to December 31, 2024. During this time, the Council welcomed the US's engagement and encouraged its continued participation, even after its term ended.
However, in June 2018, under the Trump administration, the US withdrew from the Council, citing concerns about its effectiveness and bias. This withdrawal was reversed in February 2021, when the Biden administration announced its intention to re-engage with the Council as an observer. The US officially rejoined the Council as a full member in January 2022.
The UNHRC is composed of 47 member states, with approximately one-third of its seats up for election each year. Member states serve three-year terms and may be re-elected once. The Council plays a crucial role in promoting and protecting human rights around the world.
Despite its withdrawal in 2018, the US remains committed to human rights and continues to engage with the UNHRC in various ways. As an observer state, the US can participate in Council discussions and contribute to its work. The US also continues to support human rights initiatives through other channels, such as bilateral diplomacy and contributions to UN agencies.
The future of the US's relationship with the UNHRC remains uncertain. However, the Council's statement welcoming the US's engagement and encouraging its continued participation suggests a willingness for future collaboration.
8 Comments
Raphael
The US's re-engagement with the UNHRC is a step in the right direction towards building a more just and equitable world.
Michelangelo
It's encouraging to see the US re-engaging with the UNHRC and working to promote human rights globally.
Donatello
It's important for the US to participate in international organizations like the UNHRC to address global challenges and uphold human rights standards.
Leonardo
The UNHRC is a waste of taxpayer money. The US should redirect those funds to address human rights concerns domestically.
Donatello
The UNHRC plays a vital role in promoting and protecting human rights, and the US's participation is essential to its success.
ZmeeLove
The US needs to take a firm stance against the UNHRC and demand reforms before considering rejoining as a full member.
Africa
The US should stop trying to appease the UNHRC and stand up for its own principles instead.
Mariposa
The UNHRC has done nothing to stop ongoing human rights atrocities around the world. Its efforts are ineffective and irrelevant.