The Case for U.S. Withdrawal from the United Nations
While some may wish to remain in the United Nations and overhaul the organization from within, there is a solid case to be made for a U.S. withdrawal. The UN is expensive, ineffective, and impedes U.S. foreign policy objectives, and threatens U.S. sovereignty.
In 2021, the most recent fiscal year with full data available, the United States contributed $12.5 billion to the UN, accounting for roughly 25% of the UN’s total $50 billion budget.
The United States conceived of the UN, was instrumental in its inception, and is the single largest donor, but still receives exactly one vote, the same as Albania, Belize, or China. Regarding peacekeeping efforts, the U.S. foots about 28% of the bill.
Beyond financial support, the U.S. also provides peacekeeping missions with logistics and infrastructure, intelligence sharing, communications, use of satellites, as well as training and capacity building.
The UN has proved itself ineffective in achieving its stated objectives. It has consistently failed to prevent or resolve major conflicts, as evidenced by ongoing crises in regions like Ukraine, Syria, Yemen, and Darfur.
Some conflicts, such as the Kashmir Dispute (1948-present), Somali Civil War (1991-present), and South Sudan Civil War (2013-present), have persisted for decades.
Even in situations where the UN touts success, such as in the Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Mali, security often deteriorates once peacekeepers depart. It appears that, at best, UN troops can offer only temporary and partial relief, falling short of comprehensive resolution.