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The Trump administration has recently considered ending U.S. engagement with the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR), according to multiple Reuters sources, raising concerns about the future of one of the world's largest humanitarian organizations.
Eight sources, including diplomats, congressional and aid officials, said Washington has been evaluating whether to cut ties with UNHCR, historically the agency’s largest financial supporter. While a decision was reportedly expected last week, no announcement has been made, suggesting that diplomatic lobbying efforts may have delayed or influenced the process.
The discussions reportedly follow disagreements over UNHCR leadership appointments. Sources said the dispute centers on the selection of U.S. career diplomat Tressa Rae Finerty as deputy high commissioner instead of U.S.-backed candidate Simon Hankinson, a former foreign service officer who has criticized the agency’s approach to migration and advocated for significant reforms.
According to several sources, UNHCR has warned supporters that it could face a U.S. funding cutoff and possible removal from Washington’s backing on its Executive Committee. Aid organizations and diplomats have since intensified outreach to U.S. officials, urging the administration to maintain its support for the agency.
A State Department spokesperson said there have been no changes to U.S. engagement with UNHCR, adding that Washington will continue evaluating its participation in international organizations under a February 2025 executive order while cooperating with UNHCR when it aligns with U.S. foreign policy goals or humanitarian interests.
The United States contributed approximately $868 million to UNHCR in 2025, accounting for about one-quarter of the agency’s total funding. The organization is already grappling with a severe financial crisis after available funding declined roughly 30% from the previous year, forcing thousands of job cuts and additional budget reductions.
Diplomats and former UNHCR officials warned that a complete U.S. withdrawal could significantly weaken global refugee assistance efforts and undermine the 1951 Refugee Convention, which remains the foundation of the international refugee protection system. Many believe losing its largest donor would pose an existential challenge to the agency as global displacement remains near record levels.
