The Trump administration has announced that the United States will withdraw from UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. This decision, made public on Tuesday, is based on the belief that remaining a member is not in the national interest of the U.S.
State Department Spokeswoman Tammy Bruce stated that UNESCO promotes divisive social and cultural issues and focuses heavily on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, which the administration views as contrary to its America First policy. This move is part of a broader shift by the Trump administration to distance itself from international organizations perceived as hostile to American interests. Earlier this year, the administration also cut funding to the UN Human Rights Council and the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees.
One of the significant points of contention for the U.S. is UNESCO’s decision to admit the “State of Palestine” as a member. Bruce described this as highly problematic and said it contributes to anti-Israel sentiment within the organization.
The U.S. will remain a member of UNESCO until December 31, 2026. White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly explained that the withdrawal is a response to what the administration sees as “woke” and divisive policies that do not align with the values of American voters.
This is not the first time the U.S. has withdrawn from UNESCO. Trump initially pulled the U.S. out of the organization in 2017, citing its bias against Israel. Following his re-election, he ordered a review of UNESCO’s membership to look for signs of anti-Semitism or anti-Israel bias.
UNESCO has faced criticism for its perceived anti-Israel stance, particularly regarding its designation of certain sites as Palestinian heritage sites. For instance, the Cave of the Patriarchs in Hebron was designated as a “Palestinian World Heritage Site.” In 2016, UNESCO passed a resolution that referred to the Temple Mount solely by its Muslim name, omitting its Jewish historical significance.
Critics also claim that UNESCO is influenced by China, which is its second-largest funder, and has adopted progressive policies that some see as out of touch with American values. Eugene Kontorovich, a law professor, stated that UNESCO is beyond reform and that the U.S. should end its relationship with the organization due to its bias and progressive agenda.
Kontorovich also pointed out that the Biden administration did not seek congressional approval for rejoining UNESCO in 2023, raising questions about the legitimacy of U.S. membership. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this withdrawal will impact international relations and cultural cooperation.