In an International Law course led by Assistant Professor of Historical and Political Studies Roland Adjovi, undergraduate and graduate students contacted Congressman Brendan Boyle (PA-13) to address the Safeguard Israel Act of 2017, the risks associated with defunding the United Nations, and the importance of preserving the United States’ ability to shape global history as a member of the UN Security Council.

“Isolation is not a form of diplomacy and our nation’s objective should not be geopolitical regression,” students wrote. “If the United States were to lose the right to vote in the Security Council, our nation would lose much of its ability to influence global affairs.”

The letter stems from the class’s research on proposals to defund the UN by withholding U.S. contributions to its budget. Students hope that, by explaining the potential outcomes of violating international obligations and jeopardizing the United States’ status in the Security Council, Congressman Boyle will vote against the Safeguard Israel Act of 2017.