Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB6645

Introduced
12/6/23  

Caption

DEFUND Act of 2023 Disengaging Entirely From the United Nations Debacle Act of 2023

Impact

If enacted, HB6645 would have profound consequences on US international standing and commitments. The repeal of the United Nations Participation Act and the withdrawal from agreements related to the headquarters of the UN would immediately terminate the US's active role in various UN missions and initiatives. This could lead to a withdrawal from international agreements, including those designed for health collaboration, human rights, and environmental protection. The legislation also includes provisions to prohibit the approval of any future agreements for membership in the UN without Senate consent, further limiting engagement and cooperation with multinational entities.

Summary

House Bill 6645, titled the 'Disengaging Entirely From the United Nations Debacle Act of 2023' or the 'DEFUND Act of 2023', proposes the termination of the United States' membership in the United Nations (UN), along with the closure of the US Mission to the UN and the repeal of several acts that previously facilitated US participation in UN bodies. This bill reflects a significant shift in US foreign policy, emphasizing national sovereignty over international collaboration. The objective, as articulated by the bill's sponsors, is to reassess the implications of UN membership on American autonomy and to eliminate what they perceive as an unproductive and costly relationship with the organization.

Contention

The proposal has sparked significant debate within the legislative and public spheres. Proponents argue that the bill would restore the US's focus on internal priorities and reduce dependency on international organizations. Critics, however, warn that withdrawing from the UN could alienate the US from global partnerships and diminish its influence on vital issues like climate change, global health, and international security. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the potential for increased isolationism and a lack of direct engagement in solving global challenges. The bill’s passage could dismantle decades of diplomatic progress and cooperation that the US has built through its involvement in the UN.

Notable_points

Furthermore, the bill includes specific provisions to withdraw US funding and participation from UN agencies and operations, including the World Health Organization. This withdrawal could result in immediate implications for international health initiatives, particularly relevant in the context of global health crises. Critics highlight that the implications of this legislation could extend beyond governance, possibly affecting the standard of living and global humanitarian aid, and could hinder the US's ability to lead in global diplomatic efforts.

Companion Bills

US SB3428

Same As DEFUND Act of 2023 Disengaging Entirely From the United Nations Debacle Act of 2023

Previously Filed As

US SB3428

DEFUND Act of 2023 Disengaging Entirely From the United Nations Debacle Act of 2023

US HB1498

DEFUND Act of 2025 Disengaging Entirely From the United Nations Debacle Act of 2025

US SB669

DEFUND Act of 2025 Disengaging Entirely From the United Nations Debacle Act of 2025

US SB3723

Defund United Nations Relief and Works Agency Act of 2024

US HB3136

National Critical Capabilities Defense Act of 2023

US HB6450

National Disaster Safety Board Act of 2023

US HB8467

Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024

US HB6727

United States Foundation for International Conservation Act of 2023

US SB2226

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 Securing Maritime Data from China Act of 2023 Military Service Promotion Act of 2023 Space Force Personnel Management Act Department of Defense Overdose Data Act of 2023

US HB9205

National Fab Lab Network Act of 2024

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