WASHINGTON D.C.: The United States has once again announced its withdrawal from UNESCO, the United Nations’ cultural and educational agency, citing persistent anti-Israel bias and support for what it called “woke, divisive cultural and social causes.” The decision marks the third such exit from a major UN organization under former President Donald Trump, following earlier withdrawals from the World Health Organization and the UN Human Rights Council.
The U.S. State Department officially informed UNESCO of the decision on Tuesday. However, the withdrawal will take effect on December 31, 2026, until which the U.S. will remain a full member.
UNESCO Under Scrutiny from U.S. Leadership
President Trump had ordered a review of the U.S.’s membership in UNESCO earlier this year. A report submitted to the White House in May led to the final decision last week. UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay had attempted to prevent the exit by engaging with U.S. lawmakers, donors, and Jewish organizations, citing efforts to counter anti-Israel bias and combat antisemitism.
Despite such efforts, the Trump administration opted to leave, stating that UNESCO’s recent focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals was misaligned with America’s national interests.
Mixed Reactions from Allies and Officials
Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar welcomed the decision, calling it “a necessary step” for promoting justice and ensuring Israel’s fair treatment in the UN system. A senior Israeli official confirmed that Israel was notified in advance.
On the other hand, Azoulay expressed regret, stating that the U.S.’s decision may negatively impact its partners and stressed that UNESCO has changed significantly since the U.S.’s previous withdrawal in 2017. She noted that the organization’s funding has since diversified, with U.S. contributions now making up only 8% of the budget.
Background: A Long History of Tensions
The U.S. stopped funding UNESCO in 2011 after Palestine was granted full membership, citing legal restrictions. In 2017, the Trump administration first announced its withdrawal. The Biden administration reversed the move in July 2023, citing the need to counter China’s growing influence in international institutions.
However, the current administration under Trump has reversed course again, with White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly emphasizing the need to align international memberships with “commonsense, America First policies.”
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