The United States is set to become the first country to completely skip the United Nations Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) since the mechanism was established nearly two decades ago. The move follows the Trump administration’s decision to withdraw the US from the Human Rights Council last year, arguing that the body is biased against both the United States and Israel. Washington has also accused the council of failing to uphold the principles and standards it expects other member states to follow.

The Universal Periodic Review is a process through which the human rights records of all UN member states are regularly examined. Supporters of the mechanism say it ensures accountability and provides an opportunity for countries to address concerns and improve their human rights practices. By opting out of the review, the United States is breaking with a long-standing international process that applies equally to all UN members, drawing global attention to its decision.

The United States has faced criticism from human rights groups and several countries over policies including aggressive deportation measures and targeted operations against suspected drug traffickers in parts of the Caribbean and Pacific regions. However, the US administration has defended these actions, stating that they are necessary to protect American citizens, strengthen national security, and combat transnational crime. The decision to boycott the UN review is expected to spark further debate over international accountability and the future relationship between Washington and the UN Human Rights Council.