The United States’ announcement that it will withdraw from 66 international organizations confirms a trend: The wondrous story of a world where power answers to rules — and cooperation protects everyone, especially the vulnerable — is now on life support.
The U.S. withdrawal is not an exception but the most visible example of governments turning their backs on the institutions they created. In 2024, for the first time in nearly 30 years, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States all cut overseas development aid — a trend that has since accelerated.
Critics are right that the story of global solidarity was applied unevenly, and often cynically. But it still shaped the imagination of billions, helped avert crises, and saved countless lives. In the shadow of two world wars, it gave rise to norms such as international law and institutions, including the United Nations.
About the author
Bijan Farnoudi
Bijan Farnoudi is the former spokesperson for ex-U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan and has led communications for some of the world’s best-known nonprofits. He founded The Coms Network, which brings together purpose-driven communicators, and he advises executives on finding their voice and championing their cause.
