Trump’s assault on the UN is self-defeating

The Trump administration should take the lead and engage other countries to push for specific reforms, including increasing accountability measures, stronger oversight, and transparency within the various agencies. And, instead of cutting all funds, the US should provide funding conditional on meeting specific benchmarks. Moreover, the US should work closely with allies to collectively shape the UN agencies' agenda and mission, and invest in training and resources to help agencies improve their effectiveness.

Finally, the Trump administration should build a broader coalition, with like-minded countries, to create a stronger, united front in the reform process and offer diplomatic incentives to address the specific concerns of opposing countries to make it easier to find common ground.

In his address to the General Assembly on September 23, Trump stated, "What is the purpose of the United Nations? It's not even coming close to living up to its potential." I challenge Trump himself to rise to the challenge if he believes the UN has the potential. He knows that the US is by far better suited and has the resources to do just that, which would allow the US to regain its moral footing.

Trump's assault on the UN is another manifestation of his disregard of international norms, standards, and obligations. Instead of withdrawing and cutting financial aid from many of the UN's vitally important agencies and endangering its economic survival, Trump should put his money where his mouth is to restore America's credibility, which he has shattered in just nine short months in office.