Members-Only Virtual Briefing: U.S. Withdrawal from International Organizations

Members-Only Virtual Briefing:

U.S. Withdrawal from International Organizations

Policy Rationale and Strategic Implications
Off-the-Record Virtual Briefing

The BPIA Colin Powell Leadership Institute invites members to a closed, off the record virtual briefing examining the White House announcement regarding the United States’ withdrawal from select international organizations deemed contrary to U.S. interests.

This 30 minute session will provide a concise, policy focused assessment of the administration’s stated rationale, the immediate diplomatic and institutional implications, and the broader strategic signals being sent to allies, partners, and multilateral bodies. The discussion will examine how this decision fits within current U.S. foreign policy priorities and what it may mean for global governance and international cooperation moving forward.

The briefing will feature BPIA Colin Powell Leadership Institute alum Marielle Ali alongside representatives from organizations affected by the withdrawal. Together, they will explore the diplomatic consequences, shifts in alliance dynamics, and longer term implications for U.S. leadership and engagement in multilateral frameworks.

This conversation matters because international organizations serve as the primary forums for coordination on security, humanitarian response, development, public health, trade norms, and conflict prevention. Withdrawal from these institutions narrows opportunities for collective problem solving and shared rulemaking, while creating space for other actors to shape global agendas, standards, and norms.

For the international affairs community, the stakes include diminished U.S. influence in multilateral decision making, changes in burden sharing and leadership, and long term consequences for how global institutions evolve. This briefing is designed to move beyond headlines and provide a clear, grounded understanding of what is changing, what is at risk, and what leaders should be watching next.

The format is intentionally direct and analytical. There will be no slides or formal presentations. The discussion will be moderated under Chatham House Rule to allow for candid exchange.

Access is restricted to BPIA members only. Registration is required.

FACT SHEET:  President Donald J. Trump Withdraws the United States from International Organizations that Are Contrary to the Interests of the United States - https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2026/01/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-withdraws-the-united-states-from-international-organizations-that-are-contrary-to-the-interests-of-the-united-states/

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Briefer: Ms. Marielle Ali

Marielle Ali is an international affairs and public policy professional with more than a decade of experience in diplomacy, government affairs, and civic engagement. She has worked across UN missions, government and nonprofit sectors, including engagements with UNICEF, the United States Mission to the United Nations, and the Permanent Mission of Rwanda to the United Nations, where she advanced strategic partnerships and multilateral cooperation. Marielle’s work reflects a deep commitment to social justice, global governance, and amplifying underrepresented voices in international decision making. She holds a Master of Science in Global Affairs from New York University and dual bachelor’s degrees in International Studies and Political Science from the State University of New York at Fredonia.

In addition to her professional roles, Marielle serves on the National Council of the United Nations Association USA and chairs the Southern New York Division Young Professionals Program. She is an Honorary Advisor to the NGO Committee on Sustainable Development, a Global Youth Ambassador with A World At School, and an active community leader in New York City, including service on Manhattan Community Board 12. Her experience spans policy, advocacy, program management, and grassroots engagement, grounded in a belief that inclusive global leadership and community centered action are essential to advancing equitable and sustainable progress worldwide.