The African Union has expressed concern following a decision by the United States to halt funding and participation in several United Nations entities, warning that the move could have significant implications for Africa. The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, said on Monday that while the US has the sovereign right to determine its international engagements, the decision risks far-reaching consequences for the continent.
Youssouf echoed remarks by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on the importance of a strong, effective and inclusive multilateral system, noting that the world is grappling with multiple crises, including armed conflicts, climate change, economic pressures and public health threats. He stressed that dedicated funding programmes are critical to addressing these challenges.
The AU said several of the affected UN entities play key roles in Africa’s development and peacebuilding efforts, including the UN Economic Commission for Africa, UNCTAD, UN Women, UNFPA, and peacebuilding mechanisms. It warned that reduced funding could undermine development gains, peace consolidation and community resilience, particularly in fragile and conflict-affected states.
The African Union Commission expressed hope that continued dialogue between the United States, the United Nations and international partners would help sustain essential multilateral functions. The concerns follow an announcement on January 7 by President Donald Trump’s administration that the US would withdraw from 31 UN entities and 35 non-UN organisations as part of austerity measures.