Tomorrow, September 23, President Donald Trump will address the UN General Assembly. Ahead of his speech, Oxfam America President and CEO Abby Maxman released the following statement:
“President Trump returns to the United Nations as it faces existential challenges – many from the Trump administration’s obstruction and attacks on global cooperation and multilateralism. He has slashed funding for lifesaving humanitarian and development programs, pushed to roll back the rights of women, LGBTQIA+ people, and other marginalized communities, undermined efforts to combat the climate crisis, and sanctioned UN experts for their work to investigate human rights abuses.
“As world leaders gather in New York, President Trump has the opportunity to make good on his promise to be a dealmaker. Communities from Gaza, to Ukraine, to DRC, need peace deals now that save lives and deliver safety and security.
“As Israel’s offensive in Gaza City continues, and with famine already confirmed, he must leverage the U.S.’s unique relationship with the government of Israel to finally push for peace and end the U.S.’s support for Israel’s atrocities. It is in his power to help secure an immediate, permanent ceasefire, the safe return of all hostages and illegally detained prisoners, and to ensure there is a sustained surge of aid for Palestinians continuing to live under Israeli bombardment and displacement orders. The US has outsized influence in many conflicts, and President Trump should use that influence to urgently bring relief and just, sustainable peace.
“As many of our collective challenges only grow more critical, we urge President Trump to end his attacks on the UN’s vital work and mandate of collaboration and to not turn his back on the people most in need or the global systems that support them. Instead of inflaming global crises and fueling chaos and inequality, he should use his power and influence to work with the global community to provide meaningful solutions. On Tuesday, world leaders, the American public, and people everywhere will be watching.”
Notes to Editor:
- The U.S. government contributed almost $13 billion to the United Nations in fiscal year 2023 (FY 2023), the most recent year for which complete data is available. Approximately 24 percent of this total was assessed, 75 percent was voluntary, and the rest was revenue from other activities, meaning money from services and investments.
- In February 2025, the Trump administration issued an Executive Order directing the U.S. to cease funding for several UN agencies, including the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights (OHCHR), and to conduct a review of the cost/benefit of U.S. participation in all international organizations and processes.
- Oxfam has collected examples of how US aid cuts have impacted communities. You can find some recent stories here
Oxfam is a global organization that fights inequality to end poverty and injustice. We offer lifesaving support in times of crisis and advocate for economic justice, gender equality, and climate action. We demand equal rights and equal treatment so that everyone can thrive, not just survive. The future is equal. Join us at oxfamamerica.org.
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