International Relations question from JKAS Prelims, 2018 by JKPSC
Which nation withdrew from the United Nations Human Rights Council, recently?
Last updated May 30, 2026
Correct Answer:
Option B —
United States
Detailed Explanation:
The Withdrawal: In a historic move, the United States announced its formal withdrawal from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in June 2018.
The Reasons Stated: The Trump administration, represented by then-UN Ambassador Nikki Haley and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, cited two primary reasons for the exit:
What they termed as a chronic, disproportionate bias against Israel by the council.
The inclusion of several member nations with poor human rights records (such as Cuba, Venezuela, and China), which the US argued made the council hypocritical and ineffective.
Subsequent Re-entry: For historical context, the United States later reversed this policy under the Biden administration and was re-elected to the UNHRC, resuming its membership in January 2022.
Note on Russia (Option C): Candidates should not confuse this with Russia's exit. Russia did not voluntarily withdraw; it was suspended from the UNHRC in April 2022 following a vote by the UN General Assembly after the invasion of Ukraine.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.
