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Summary of President Donald Trump’s Executive Orders with International Implications


  • 22 January 2025

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1- Executive Order Withdrawing the United States from The World Health Organization

President Donald J. Trump issued an executive order to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO), marking a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy and global health engagement. Established in 1948, the WHO plays a role in global health. Historically, the U.S. has been a significant financial contributor to the organization.

Details of the Executive Order

The executive order explicitly outlined the reasons for the U.S. withdrawal, emphasizing the WHO’s perceived inadequacies in dealing with the pandemic. It highlighted the need for the United States to reassess its contributions and engagement with international health organizations. The order also stipulated the process for terminating U.S. membership and financial support to the WHO.

Financial Implications

The decision to withdraw from the WHO had significant financial repercussions. The U.S. withdrawal could cost the organization approximately $130 million in annual funding, threatening the WHO’s ability to carry out its essential functions, including global health initiatives, disease prevention programs, and emergency response efforts. This could potentially lead to a gap in global health leadership and coordination, particularly in the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

International Reactions

The executive order was met with mixed reactions on the global stage. Some countries expressed concern over the potential impact on global health security and the ability of the WHO to respond to future health emergencies. Others supported the U.S. decision, agreeing with the criticisms against the organization. Various health experts and international leaders urged the U.S. to reconsider, emphasizing the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing global health challenges. This diverse range of reactions provides a comprehensive view of the global perspective on the U.S. withdrawal from the WHO.

 

2- Executive Order on Imposing Travel Restrictions

President Trump issued several executive orders imposing travel restrictions on individuals from specific countries, commonly called the ‘Travel Ban.’ These orders aimed to protect national security by preventing individuals from countries with inadequate security measures from entering the U.S. The orders listed specific countries affected by the ban, including [list of countries], and outlined the criteria for exceptions and waivers. The countries targeted varied over time based on revised assessments of security risks.

 

3- Executive Order on Trade Tariffs

President Trump signed executive orders imposing tariffs on imports from various countries, mainly targeting China. These orders were part of Trump’s trade war strategy to address what he perceived as unfair trade practices and imbalances. The orders specified the goods subject to tariffs, the rates applied, and the justifications for these measures. They aimed to pressure countries to negotiate more favorable trade terms for the U.S.

 

4- Executive Order on Immigration Policy

President Trump issued executive orders on immigration policies, impacting international relations and immigration patterns. These orders focused on building a border wall, reducing illegal immigration, and reforming the legal immigration system. The orders outlined construction plans for the border wall, increased funding for immigration enforcement, and changes to visa programs.

With their significant international implications, these executive orders underscore President Trump’s administration’s focus on national security, trade, and immigration issues, making them a crucial aspect of U.S. foreign policy.

5- Memorandum on “America First Trade Policy”

President Donald J. Trump issued an “America First Trade Policy” memorandum addressed to multiple key administration members. The memorandum was directed to the following officials:

  • Multiple Cabinet Secretaries
  • The U.S. Trade Representative
  • The Assistant to the President for Economic Policy
  • The Senior Counselor for Trade and Manufacturing
  • The Director of the Office of Management and Budget

The primary purpose of this memorandum is to address perceived “unfair and unbalanced trade” practices that have impacted the United States’ economic interests. The directive calls for a thorough review and potential overhaul of existing trade and tariff policies, particularly emphasizing trade relations with China.

Background

The “America First Trade Policy” is grounded in the Trump administration’s broader economic and political philosophy, prioritizing protecting and advancing American financial interests. The administration has consistently expressed concerns about trade deficits, loss of manufacturing jobs, and the impact of global trade agreements on U.S. industries.

President Trump made trade a central issue during his campaign and presidency, arguing that previous administrations had allowed other countries to take advantage of the United States through unfavorable trade agreements and practices. The “America First” approach seeks to rectify these imbalances by renegotiating trade deals, imposing tariffs, and taking a more aggressive stance in international trade negotiations.

Key Directives

The memorandum outlines several key directives for the involved officials:

1. Review of Trade Agreements

Cabinet officials and the U.S. Trade Representative must review existing trade agreements comprehensively. This review should identify any terms deemed unfair or detrimental to the United States. Particular attention should be given to agreements that have contributed to significant trade deficits or the outsourcing of American jobs.

2. Evaluation of Tariff Policies

The memorandum calls for evaluating current tariff policies to identify areas where tariffs can be adjusted to protect American industries. This includes considering the imposition of new tariffs on imports that are perceived to be unfairly subsidized or dumped in the U.S. market.

3. Focus on China

A significant portion of the memorandum is dedicated to trade relations with China. The President directs officials to examine the trade practices of China, particularly those related to intellectual property theft, forced technology transfers, and state subsidies for Chinese industries. The memorandum suggests that these practices have created an uneven playing field and harmed American businesses.

4. Strengthening Enforcement Mechanisms

To ensure compliance with the “America First Trade Policy,” the memorandum emphasizes the need for robust enforcement mechanisms. This includes utilizing existing trade laws and considering new legislative measures to address identified trade abuses.

Implementation and Impact

Implementing the “America First Trade Policy” will involve coordination among various federal agencies and departments. The immediate focus will be gathering data, conducting analyses, and developing actionable strategies to address the identified issues.

Short-Term Impact

In the short term, the policy will likely increase tariffs on certain imports, particularly from China. This could lead to higher costs for American consumers and businesses that rely on imported goods. However, the administration argues these measures are necessary to protect domestic industries and jobs. In the long term, the policy’s success will depend on the outcomes of renegotiated trade agreements and the effectiveness of enforcement measures. The administration hopes these efforts will lead to a more balanced trade environment, increased domestic manufacturing, and job growth in key industries, offering a hopeful outlook for the future.

Long-Term Impact

The long-term impact of the ‘America First Trade Policy’ will depend on renegotiated trade agreements’ outcomes and enforcement measures’ effectiveness. The administration hopes these efforts will lead to a more balanced trade environment, increased domestic manufacturing, and job growth in key industries. However, it could also potentially lead to increased trade tensions and a shift in global trade dynamics, particularly in relation to China and other major trading partners.

International Reactions

The memorandum has elicited mixed reactions from international stakeholders. Some countries, particularly those with significant trade surpluses with the United States, have expressed concern about the potential for increased tariffs and protectionist measures. Others have indicated a willingness to negotiate to address the administration’s concerns, providing a comprehensive view of global reactions.

China’s Response

As a primary focus of the memorandum, China has been vocal in its opposition to the “America First Trade Policy.” Chinese officials have argued that the administration’s approach could lead to a trade war, negatively impacting both economies. However, they are also willing to dialogue to find mutually beneficial solutions.

European Union

The European Union has also been attentive to the developments related to the “America First Trade Policy.” While some member states share concerns about trade imbalances, there is a general preference for resolving these issues through multilateral frameworks rather than unilateral measures.

Conclusion

The “America First Trade Policy” memorandum issued by President Trump marks a significant shift in U.S. trade policy. It reflects the administration’s commitment to addressing unfair trade practices and protecting American economic interests. While the policy can potentially create tensions with trading partners, it also opens the door for renegotiating trade agreements in a way that could benefit the United States in the long run.

Constructive dialogue and cooperation between all parties will be essential as the policy’s implementation progresses. The “America First Trade Policy” ‘s success will ultimately depend on the ability to balance protectionist measures with the need for international collaboration and economic stability.

The administration believes a fairer and more balanced trade environment will bring greater prosperity to American businesses and workers. The directives outlined in the memorandum are a first step towards achieving this goal, and their impact will be closely monitored in the months and years to come.

 

6- Executive Order on Energy: “Unleashing American Energy”

President Trump’s executive order “Unleashing American Energy” signifies a robust shift in U.S. energy policy. This directive aims to bolster the development of domestic energy resources by eliminating regulatory barriers that have historically hindered their growth. The order underscores the administration’s commitment to revitalizing traditional energy sectors while reducing reliance on foreign energy sources.

Immediate Review of Agency Activities

A key component of the executive order is the immediate review of agency activities that “potentially burden” the development of domestic energy resources. This comprehensive review encompasses various energy sectors, including natural gas, coal, hydropower, biofuels, critical minerals, and nuclear energy. The objective is to identify and rectify any regulatory obstacles that impede efficient production and utilization of these resources.

Action Plans and Timeline

The executive order stipulates that within one month, all relevant agencies must develop and submit action plans to counteract previous regulatory measures that have stifled energy development. These plans outline specific steps and timelines for repealing or amending regulations deemed detrimental to the growth of domestic energy industries.

Revocation of Biden-Era Regulatory Actions

In a decisive move to realign energy policy, the order revokes twelve regulatory actions implemented during the Biden administration. These actions were primarily focused on clean energy initiatives and environmental protections. The revocation is intended to remove constraints on traditional energy sectors and facilitate their expansion.

Pause on Clean Energy Funding

The executive order further mandates an immediate pause in disbursement funds from the Inflation Reduction Act. This Biden-era law allocated billions of dollars in subsidies to clean energy initiatives. The administration aims to redirect resources toward advancing traditional energy industries and ensuring energy independence by halting these funds.

Conclusion

The “Unleashing American Energy” executive order represents a significant departure from the previous administration’s focus on clean energy and environmental protection. It highlights the current administration’s prioritization of traditional energy sectors and its commitment to reducing regulatory burdens. As agencies develop and implement their action plans, the impact of this policy shift will become more apparent. The administration believes the United States can achieve greater energy independence and economic prosperity by fostering a more favorable regulatory environment.

 

7- Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid

President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled “Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid.” This order calls for a 90-day pause in U.S. foreign development assistance and a comprehensive review of the nation’s foreign aid programs. The directive is a significant move that highlights the administration’s intent to reassess the alignment of foreign aid with American interests and values.

Context and Rationale

The executive order underscores concerns that the current foreign aid industry and bureaucracy are not aligned with American interests and, in many cases, may be antithetical to American values. This perspective is rooted in the belief that foreign aid, as it stands, may not effectively serve the United States’ strategic and economic interests. The order grants the Secretary of State the authority to waive the pause for specific programs, acknowledging that there are exceptions where continued assistance is deemed crucial.

Scope of the Review

The executive order mandates a thorough review of all foreign aid programs. This review will evaluate these programs’ efficacy, alignment with national interests, and overall impact. The goal is to ensure that U.S. foreign aid is strategically deployed to maximize benefits for both the recipient countries and the United States.

Key Areas of Focus

  • Alignment with National Interests: The review will assess how well foreign aid programs align with the United States’ strategic interests. This includes evaluating whether the aid supports geopolitical stability and economic growth and promoting American values abroad.
  • Efficiency and Effectiveness: The review will scrutinize the efficiency and effectiveness of foreign aid programs. This involves examining the administration, distribution, and impact of aid to ensure that funds are utilized in a manner that delivers tangible results.
  • Accountability and Transparency: Ensuring accountability and transparency in the administration of foreign aid is a critical aspect of the review. This includes evaluating the mechanisms to monitor and report on the use of aid funds.

Historical Perspective

Foreign aid has long been a contentious issue in U.S. politics. While it typically amounts to roughly 1% of the federal budget, Republicans have frequently targeted foreign assistance for cuts. The argument is that these funds could be better used domestically, especially during economic strain or crisis. However, proponents of foreign aid argue that it plays a crucial role in promoting global stability, fostering goodwill, and supporting U.S. foreign policy objectives.

Implications of the Pause

The 90-day pause on foreign development assistance is expected to have several immediate and long-term implications.

Immediate Impact

  • Program Disruptions: The immediate halt in funding may disrupt ongoing aid programs, affecting millions of beneficiaries in recipient countries. This includes critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.
  • Diplomatic Relations: The pause may strain diplomatic relations with some countries that rely heavily on U.S. aid. These nations may perceive the halt as a sign of diminishing support and commitment from the United States.

Long-term Consequences

  • Strategic Realignment: The review may lead to a strategic realignment of U.S. foreign aid, focusing on regions and programs deemed more critical to national interests.
  • Policy Reforms: Based on the review findings, significant policy reforms may be aimed at improving the administration and impact of foreign aid. This could include new funding models, partnerships, and accountability mechanisms.

Exemptions and Waivers

The executive order grants the Secretary of State the authority to waive the pause for specific programs. This provision acknowledges that certain aid programs are too critical to be halted, even temporarily. The criteria for these exemptions will be based on the programs’ strategic importance and immediate impact.

Examples of Potential Waivers

  • Humanitarian Assistance: Programs that provide humanitarian assistance in regions affected by conflict, natural disasters, or severe poverty may receive exemptions to ensure continued support for vulnerable populations.
  • Security Cooperation: Aid programs that support U.S. security cooperation with allies and partners may be exempted to maintain stability and counter threats such as terrorism and regional aggression.

Conclusion

The “Reevaluating and Realigning the United States Foreign Aid” executive order represents a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy. By pausing foreign development assistance and undertaking a comprehensive review, the administration aims to ensure that foreign aid programs are more effectively aligned with American interests and values. The outcomes of this review will likely lead to strategic realignments and policy reforms that could redefine the future of U.S. foreign aid. As the 90-day review period unfolds, the implications of this executive order will become more apparent, shaping the landscape of U.S. foreign assistance for years to come.

 

8- Memorandum on Withdrawing from the OECD’s Global Tax Deal

Considering Recent developments and evaluations, President Trump has determined that the United States will no longer participate in the OECD Global Tax Deal. This memorandum outlines the reasons for this decision and the steps to be taken to effectuate our withdrawal.

Background

The OECD Global Tax Deal, signed by the United States in October 2021, was a landmark agreement involving nearly 140 countries. The agreement aimed to establish a universal corporate minimum tax and end the era of competitive reductions in corporate tax rates. Despite the initial support for this international effort, it has become clear that continued participation is not in the United States’s best interest.

Reasons for Withdrawal

  1. Economic Sovereignty: The U.S. must be able to set its tax policies without external constraints. The Global Tax Deal imposes limitations on our sovereignty in fiscal matters.
  2. Competitive Disadvantage: The deal potentially places American companies at a competitive disadvantage compared to their global counterparts. It is crucial to maintain a business environment that fosters growth and innovation.
  3. Domestic Priorities: Redirecting focus and resources to address domestic economic challenges is paramount. The current global economic climate necessitates prioritizing internal economic stability and development.

Implementation

Effective immediately, all relevant departments and agencies are instructed to cease participation in activities related to the OECD Global Tax Deal. This includes halting any ongoing negotiations, meetings, and compliance measures associated with the agreement.

Conclusion

The decision to withdraw from the OECD Global Tax Deal underscores our commitment to prioritizing American economic interests and maintaining fiscal autonomy. We will continue to engage with international partners on other platforms to promote fair and equitable economic practices that align with our national interests.

 

9- Executive Order: America First Policy Directive to The Secretary of State

Purpose

The United States has consistently prioritized its citizens’ safety, economic well-being, and prosperity. This executive order is intended to solidify a foreign policy approach that puts “America and American citizens first.” This policy aims to enhance national security, support economic growth, and ensure that the interests of American citizens are at the forefront of our international engagements.

 Policy

The Secretary of State shall ensure that the Department of State adheres to an isolationist foreign policy approach that prioritizes American interests above all else. This approach includes:

  • Strengthening national security by addressing external threats and minimizing involvement in foreign conflicts that do not directly impact the United States.
  • Promoting economic prosperity by renegotiating trade deals that are more favorable to American businesses and workers and reducing international financial commitments that do not serve the immediate interests of the United States.
  • Fostering diplomatic relations that prioritize the well-being of American citizens, ensuring that their safety and interests are safeguarded in all international dealings.

Implementation

The Secretary of State is directed to:

  • Review all existing international agreements and treaties to ensure they align with the America First policy.
  • Reassess the allocation of resources and personnel in the State Department to support this policy directive better.
  • Engage with foreign governments and international organizations to renegotiate more favorable terms to the United States.

Accountability

The Secretary of State nominee, Marco Rubio, confirmed unanimously by the Senate on January 20, shall oversee the implementation of this directive. At his confirmation hearing, Rubio vowed: “Under President Trump, the United States Department of State’s top priority will be the United States.” All actions under this directive shall be reported to the President every quarter.

General Provisions

  • This order shall be implemented in a manner consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
  • Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect the authority granted by law to an executive department, agency, or the head thereof.
  • This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

 

10- Executive Order on Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness

This executive order directs specific actions to rename prominent landmarks to recognize the historical and cultural significance of specific geographical names and restore names that reflect American heritage and honor.

Renaming the Gulf of Mexico

The Secretary of the Interior is directed to take all necessary steps to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. This change shall be reflected in all official maps, documents, and references.

Renaming Denali

The Secretary of the Interior is directed to take all necessary steps to return the name of Denali, the highest mountain in North America, to its former name, Mount McKinley. These renaming honors the legacy of President William McKinley and restores the name used for over a century.

Implementation

The Secretary of the Interior shall coordinate with relevant federal and state agencies to ensure the implementation of this order. All changes must be reflected in federal publications, maps, and signage within a reasonable time frame.

Accountability

The Secretary of the Interior shall report to the President on the progress of the renaming efforts every quarter. This report shall include updates on completing necessary steps and any challenges encountered.

General Provisions

This order shall be implemented in a manner consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

  • The authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
  • The Director of the Office of Management and Budget functions relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

 

11- Executive order to withdraw from the Paris climate agreement

President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the United States to withdraw from the landmark Paris Climate Agreement again. Hours after he was sworn into a second term, Trump’s action echoed his directive in 2017 when he announced that the U.S. would abandon the global Paris Accord. The pact aims to limit long-term global warming to 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit (1.5 degrees Celsius) above pre-industrial levels or, failing that, keeping temperatures below 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit (2 degrees Celsius) above pre-industrial levels.

Implementation

The Secretary of the Interior shall coordinate with relevant federal and state agencies to ensure the implementation of this order. All changes must be reflected in federal publications, maps, and signage within a reasonable time frame.

Accountability

The Secretary of the Interior shall report to the President on the progress of the renaming efforts every quarter. This report shall include updates on completing necessary steps and any challenges encountered.

General Provisions

This order shall be implemented in a manner consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

  • The authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
  • The Director of the Office of Management and Budget functions relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

Impact

without U.S. leadership, the world will fall even further behind the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting the Earth’s warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, a threshold that could accelerate the pace of climate damage. The U.S. is the second-biggest source after China regarding carbon pollution driving up global temperatures. However, President Trump is trying to cut expenses that Congress authorized, providing $1.1 trillion for Biden’s significant climate, clean energy, and infrastructure programs. More than half of that spending — at least $561 billion — has yet to be obligated or is not yet available for agencies to spend


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