Senator Mike Lee Introduces Legislation to Withdraw the U.S. From the United Nations

Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) has introduced the Disengaging Entirely from the United Nations Debacle (DEFUND) Act, a bold legislative move calling for the United States’ complete withdrawal from the United Nations (UN). Co-sponsored by Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Rick Scott (R-FL), the DEFUND Act aims to address long-standing concerns about national sovereignty, fiscal accountability, and the UN’s controversial actions.

The UN, once envisioned as a beacon of hope born from the ashes of World War II, has become a shadow of its founding ideals. Established to prevent atrocities like the Holocaust and promote global peace, it has instead devolved into an institution plagued by corruption, inefficiency, and political bias. Critics argue that it now serves as a platform for authoritarian regimes and anti-democratic agendas. 1

Senator Lee’s DEFUND Act seeks to sever ties with the UN by repealing key legislative acts, such as the United Nations Participation Act of 1945, and ceasing all forms of U.S. financial support, including assessed and voluntary contributions. The bill also prohibits U.S. involvement in UN peacekeeping operations, revokes diplomatic immunity for UN officials within the United States, and formalizes withdrawal from the World Health Organization and other UN conventions. 

A History of Failure

The UN’s track record has been marred by failures to uphold its mission. From its inability to prevent genocides in Rwanda and Bosnia to its controversial stances on Israel and its perceived leniency toward authoritarian regimes, the organization has faced widespread criticism. Recent actions, such as China’s election to the Human Rights Council and the UN’s delayed condemnation of Hamas, have only fueled calls for reform—or outright withdrawal. 

Senator Blackburn emphasized the urgency of the DEFUND Act, stating, “The United Nations has betrayed our trust time and time again. We cannot continue to be their cash cow while they undermine our national security and interests”.

A New Vision for Global Cooperation

Critics of the UN, including Senator Lee, argue that democracies and dictatorships cannot coexist effectively within a single global body. They propose the creation of an alternative organization, such as a “United Democratic Nations,” composed solely of free nations committed to shared values of liberty, human rights, and accountability. Such a body, they contend, would better serve the interests of democratic nations and the global community2.

The Path Forward

The DEFUND Act represents a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, challenging the status quo of international diplomacy. While its supporters see it as a necessary step to protect American sovereignty and taxpayer dollars, opponents warn of potential diplomatic fallout and the loss of U.S. influence on the global stage.

As the debate unfolds, one thing is clear: the United Nations, once a symbol of hope and unity, now stands at a crossroads. Whether it can reform and reclaim its original purpose remains to be seen. For now, the DEFUND Act signals a growing frustration with an institution many believe has lost its way.