QUOTE: “Not so long ago, during the election campaign, I was targeted in an attempted assassination attempt, when a bullet pierced through my ear. But God saved me because my purpose is to ‘make America great again’,” – Donald J Trump.
Donald J. Trump’s return to the White House for his second term as the 47th President of the United States (US) marks a pivotal moment in American politics and global affairs.
His inauguration on Jan 20 came with bold promises and swift action.
Within days of taking office, he signed a series of executive orders aimed at reversing his predecessor’s policies, strengthening his “America First” agenda, and redefining the United States’ domestic and foreign priorities.
While these actions have garnered praise from his supporters, they have also drawn widespread criticism both at home and abroad.
The policies, though largely focused on domestic concerns, have significant implications for the rest of the world.
One of Trump’s first acts upon returning to office was to withdraw the US from the Paris Climate Agreement for the second time.
Describing the accord as unfair and detrimental to American industries, he argued that the deal placed undue burdens on the US while allowing other nations, particularly China, to benefit economically.
By prioritising energy independence and fossil fuel production, the administration signalled a pivot away from global climate cooperation.
This decision is expected to have dire consequences for international efforts to combat climate change. Many developing nations rely on financial and technical support from wealthier countries like the US to implement green initiatives.
Without American leadership, progress on global climate goals could stall, potentially encouraging other nations to deprioritise their commitments to reducing carbon emissions.
Another controversial move was his decision to pardon over 1,500 individuals convicted in connection with the Jan 6 Capitol riots.
Framing the pardons as a step toward reconciliation, he described those involved in the events as “patriots” who were unfairly targeted by the justice system.
While this move has resonated with his base, it has sparked outrage among critics, who argue that it undermines the rule of law and democracy itself.
On the cultural front, Trump’s administration made headlines by officially recognising only two genders—male and female.
This executive order, signed on his first day back in office, aims to roll back protections for transgender and non-binary individuals, particularly in areas such as healthcare, education and federal documentation.
He justified this policy by claiming it restores “traditional American values” and counters what he called “radical ideology.”
However, this decision has drawn sharp criticism from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and human rights organisations, who view it as a direct attack on the rights of marginalised communities.
Another significant policy reversal was the US withdrawal from the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Trump reiterated his stance that the WHO had failed in its handling of the Covid-19 pandemic and accused it of being overly influenced by China.
By stepping away, the administration claimed it was taking back control of US health policies.
However, critics argue that this decision weakens global health cooperation and preparedness, particularly in the face of potential future pandemics.
The move is expected to have far-reaching consequences for international health efforts, especially in developing countries that rely on WHO-led programmes for vaccination, disease prevention, and emergency response.
Domestically, Trump made waves by ending Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) programmes within federal agencies.
His administration argued that such initiatives promoted division rather than unity, claiming they prioritised identity over merit.
While this decision aligns with Trump’s broader vision of a merit-based society, it has raised concerns about representation and equity in federal institutions.
Immigration policy remains a cornerstone of Trump’s agenda.
Upon taking office, he declared a national emergency at the US-Mexico border, paving the way for expedited construction of the border wall and stricter immigration enforcement.
The administration has also tightened asylum rules and ended automatic citizenship for children born to non-citizens in the US.
While these measures resonate with Trump’s supporters, they have significant implications for neighbouring countries, particularly in Central and South America.
Increased deportations and stricter immigration rules could strain relations with these nations and exacerbate humanitarian crises along the border.
Trump’s economic policies also reflect a renewed focus on protectionism.
His decision to reinstate tariffs on Chinese goods signals a return to the trade war that defined his first term.
While aimed at reducing the trade deficit, these measures are likely to disrupt global supply chains and create economic uncertainty.
Trump has also hinted at renegotiating trade deals with allies to secure more favourable terms for the US, a move that could strain international alliances and impact global economic stability.
The overarching theme of Trump’s second term is a return to nationalism and unilateralism.
While his supporters celebrate these policies as a triumph for American sovereignty, critics warn of their long-term consequences.
The withdrawal from international agreements and organisations risks isolating the US on the global stage, while the rollback of social equity programmes and protections raises concerns about the erosion of progress made in recent years.
Globally, Trump’s actions are likely to deepen divisions, embolden populist leaders, and weaken multilateral cooperation.
For nations that depend on US leadership in areas like climate change, public health and trade, these policies mark a challenging era.
As Trump continues to implement his agenda, the world will watch closely, grappling with the question of how to navigate an increasingly polarised landscape shaped by his vision of “America First”.
