Key Points:

• The US has warned UNICEF and UN Women against promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, paralleling a wider campaign against gender ideology.
• President Trump has re-emphasized the administration's stance against DEI, threatening funding as a leverage tool against UN organizations.
• This policy shift could impact billions in US contributions to the UN, as opposition mounts from various international stakeholders and charities.

The United States has significantly ramped up its pressure on United Nations organizations such as UNICEF and UN Women to abandon any focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and related "gender ideology" as recent actions from the Trump administration signal a strategic withdrawal from such global initiatives. This latest move indicates an emphasis on financial leverage, with potential threats to funding left hanging over prominent UN agencies. Trump, back in office since January, has swiftly enacted measures aimed at dismantling DEI policies, advocating for a return to what his administration terms "biological reality" over inclusivity measures.

During a series of recent executive board meetings, the US made it clear that programs promoting DEI concepts would not be tolerated, as they infringe upon what US representatives describe as the established tenets of merit and equality. The delicate nature of UN funding was underscored, with critics expressing concerns that significant funding reductions might lead to decreased operational capabilities for vital UN programs that depend on US financial support.

In retaliation to the US's firm stance, some nations, represented by Eritrea’s deputy UN Ambassador, championed the importance of DEI initiatives, stating that it is crucial for ensuring that "no child is left behind" in UNICEF programs. However, US diplomats, such as Jonathan Shrier, have condemned such programs, suggesting they foster a "divisive and dangerous preferential hierarchy" instead of promoting equality in opportunities.

In a socially charged atmosphere, Trump has threatened further cuts to UN contributions, amounting to a substantial 22% of the UN's core budget and 27% of its peacekeeping operations, with the US reportedly owing around $2.8 billion to the organization. Major concern arises as these funding threats coincide with a recent dismissal of the US's partnership with the UN Human Rights Council and discontinuation of financial support to the Palestinian Relief Agency.

These tactics aim to align the US's position on equality with its federal policies, extending its influence globally, raising fears among many that this could allow rival nations like China to gain a stronger foothold in international affairs, filling any voids left by America’s receding diplomatic engagement. With representatives from other member nations advocating for the continued importance of DEI, tensions are likely to escalate as the US remains resolute in calling for organizations to ignore "radical causes" in favor of "biological reality," reiterating that DEI programming is contradictory to US objectives.

Recent communications from the UN’s World Food Programme reveal caution among staff regarding the use of specific terminology related to diversity in light of these pressures, suggesting a shift in operational language to de-emphasize DEI at all levels, a stipulation seen in a note indicating to avoid controversial language related to LGBTQI+ and SOGIESC terminologies. The implications of these changes not only affect the scope of equality-related initiatives within the UN but signal a larger ideological conflict regarding global governance and the promotion of equal rights.

As the US continues to shape its stance in international forums, the impact of these adjustments to foundational programs advocating for inclusivity remains to be seen.

For more on this ongoing story, visit Channel News Asia or Reuters.