US Boycotts UN Human Rights Review for Second Time, Leaving Seats Empty

GENEVA: The United States has once again boycotted a United Nations review of its human rights record, marking a significant departure from the traditional practice observed by all UN member states. The absence of US representatives was evident on Tuesday at the UN’s European headquarters during the Universal Periodic Review (UPR), a process that involves all 193 member countries every four to five years.

As the session commenced, UN Human Rights Council president Sidharto Reza Suryodipuro noted the empty seats designated for the US delegation, stating, “the delegation of the United States is not present in the room.” This absence follows a decision made by President Donald Trump’s administration, which opted to cease cooperation with the rights council shortly after taking office in January 2025, having previously boycotted the UPR process last November.

The US’s continued absence raises concerns about its commitment to international human rights standards and could have broader implications for its diplomatic relations. The State Department has labeled the council as an “irredeemable body” that “makes a mockery of human rights,” indicating a reluctance to engage with international human rights mechanisms.

Looking ahead, the UN Human Rights Council had previously postponed the US review for a year in hopes of a return to participation. However, with the current administration’s stance, it remains uncertain if or when the US will re-engage in this critical dialogue on human rights.