Dr. Varsha Singh, Assistant Professor at NLU Jodhpur argues that the series of withdrawals from the multilateral institutions such as the WHO, UNHRC, sanctions against the ICC and its officials by the US administration marks a significant turning point for multilateralism and international law. The proposed DEFUND Act once enforced may lead to serious consequences for the UN and its agencies. The UN despite its shortcomings remains one of the most remarkable examples of cooperation in the post Second World War era. Similarly, accusations by the US against the ICC of 'engaging in illegitimate and baseless actions targeting America' do undermine the court's purpose of prevention of impunity for international crimes. On the trade front too, the Appellate body of the WTO is facing a US blockade. The economic nationalism of the current administration has led to aggressive tariffs in the name of American safety and national security.
The US's unilateral actions can invite global retaliation, but this is also a chance for non-western nations to take up leadership roles.
