Tenzin Nyidon
DHARAMSHALA, Feb. 6: Washington based rights group International Campaign for Tibet (ICT) has expressed deep regret over the United States’ withdrawal from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), warning that the move weakens global efforts to hold human rights violators accountable, particularly in Tibet.
President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Tuesday, formalising the U.S. exit from the UNHRC. “I’ve always felt that the U.N. has tremendous potential,” Trump said. “It’s not living up to that potential right now. They’ve got to get their act together.” The United States currently contributes 22% of the UN’s regular operating budget.
In a statement, ICT highlighted the United States’ crucial role in the UNHRC, noting its consistent advocacy against human rights abuses in Tibet. The organization warned that Washington’s departure would embolden autocratic regimes, particularly China, which has long sought to suppress discussions on its repressive policies in Tibet.
The Tibetan advocacy group urged UNHRC member states, observer states, and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to intensify their commitment to upholding human rights standards. It cautioned that if China succeeds in stifling criticism of its policies in Tibet, it would significantly undermine the broader UN human rights system.
Critics argue that the latest withdrawal signals a disregard for human rights and international cooperation. Amnesty International USA condemned the decision, calling it a “complete and blatant disregard for human rights and international cooperation.” Representative Jim McGovern, a longtime Tibet advocate, labeled the move “reckless and shameful,” asserting that it undermines US leadership in confronting human rights abuses.
Established in 2006, the UNHRC is an intergovernmental body within the United Nations dedicated to the promotion and protection of human rights worldwide. The United States has had a fluctuating relationship with the Council, previously withdrawing in 2018 under the Trump administration due to concerns over perceived anti-Israel bias and the inclusion of states with poor human rights records. It later rejoined in 2021 under President Joe Biden.
Observers fear that the absence of strong international scrutiny could embolden Beijing, the UN’s second-largest financial contributor, to escalate its suppression of Tibetans’ fundamental freedoms without accountability.
