India has stressed the need for multilateralism, saying that global challenges can only be solved through consultation and cooperation among nations, while reflecting on US’ decision to exit from 66 international organisations. Dubbing them “wasteful, ineffective, and harmful”, the US Department of Stata on Wednesday (January 7, 2025) said that the days of billions of dollars in taxpayer money flowing to foreign interests are over.
Responding to media questions about the US decision to withdraw from several UN and non-UN bodies, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India remains committed to the Intenational Solar Alliance (ISA), the India-led global intergovernmental body dedicated to advancing solar power adoption.
The remarks came after the United States announced it would leave 66 international organisations. MEA spokesperson Jaiswal stated that New Delhi will continue working towards the alliance’s goals, despite the United States stepping away from the group of 125 countries.
Why has US exited international organisations?
President Trump, earlier this week, signed an executive order to pull the US out of 66 international organisations, including several United Nations’ bodies like the UN population agency and the treaty that governs global climate negotiations. This move suspends American support for these organisations, agencies and commissions.
“We have noted the US announcement to withdraw from various international organisations and UN bodies. They have also opted out of the International Solar Alliance,” Jaiswal said. “We will keep working to advance its objectives. Since its creation, the ISA has made strong progress in promoting solar energy and cooperation among its members.”
Jaiswal further added that the alliance now includes 125 countries, and we will continue to push its goals forward. He also highlighted India’s broader stance, emphasising the need for collective action on global issues. “India supports multilateralism and believes that international problems require consultation and collaboration among all nations.”
US’ executive order to withdraw from 66 global bodies came just days after Trump directed his administration to review US participation and funding for all international organisations, including those linked to the UN. The White House confirmed the news on social media.
Most of the targetted UN bodies focus on climate, labour and other issues that the Trump administration has labelled as promoting diversity and “woke” initiatives.
Probable impact of US withdrawal
The US decision to withdraw from 66 international organisations marks a significant retreat from global governance. This move signals a shift away from cooperation towards trade deals and other key issues. Climate actions need a strong and active presence of the US as superpowers have attained those positions partly on economic advantages from the third world countries.
The withdrawal is expected to weaken all eminent institutions. These bodies will lose a major financial contributor, a source of technical expertise, and an influential political supporter. Reduced resources and diminished credibility could hamper their ability to implement programmes effectively, slowing progress on issues ranging from renewable energy adoption to global health and education.