Trump’s Anti-Globalisation Agenda and its Impact on International Relations
Lexpedia · 13 February 2025 · 3 min read
WHAT HAS HAPPENED?
In his pursuit of America First policies, US President Donald Trump is dismantling globalisation, particularly distancing the US from its leading role in international institutions that were built post-Cold War. Under American leadership, global institutions for trade, governance, security, and social action were formed. However, Trump believes these institutions fall short and mainly benefit other countries at the expense of the US.
ATTACK ON ICC
A notable action under Trump's anti-globalisation stance is the imposition of sanctions against individuals working on International Criminal Court (ICC) investigations into US citizens or allies like Israel. For instance, Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu is wanted by the ICC over war crimes in Gaza. Similarly, the ICC issued an arrest warrant for Russia's President Vladimir Putin for alleged war crimes involving the deportation of Ukrainian children. Russia has taken retaliatory measures, banning ICC officials.The ICC, a permanent court, prosecutes individuals for war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, and crimes of aggression.
G20 FOREIGN MINISTERS MEET
- US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on X that he would not attend the upcoming G20 Foreign Ministers' meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa. Rubio criticized South Africa for its actions, claiming that it was conducting unjust activities under the summit’s theme of "solidarity, equality, and sustainability." In addition, Trump accused South Africa of land confiscation and mistreatment of certain populations, vowing to cut US funding until the matter was investigated.
- South Africa and Malaysia announced efforts to protect and uphold the rulings of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the ICC, following allegations of US sanctions aimed at the ICC. The formation of a nine-nation group, the Hague Group, aimed to defend Palestinian rights and challenge violations of international law by Israel.
- Trump’s proposal to resettle Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan contradicts core principles of international law regarding territorial integrity and sovereignty, as Gaza is recognized as part of Palestinian territories under Israeli military occupation.
DURING TRUMP’S FIRST TERM
In his first term (2017-2021), Trump imposed sweeping sanctions on the ICC and its officials, which were later reversed under the Joe Biden administration, especially with support for ICC investigations into Russian war crimes in Ukraine. However, the US House of Representatives recently passed a new ICC sanctions bill (H.R. 8282), currently under review.
THE FUTURE OF G20?
- Rubio’s comment seems to target South Africa, not the G20 as a platform, but it raises concerns about the US's commitment to the G20 if it chooses to stay away. The G20 Foreign Ministers’ meeting is scheduled for February 20-21, and Trump is expected to attend the G20 Leaders’ Summit in November 2025.
- During his first term, Trump shifted the G20’s agenda from free trade to "reciprocal trade", in line with his America First stance. His more radical approach in his second term might challenge the role of G20 in global governance.
