US Withdraws from Unesco for Second Time Amidst Allegations of 'Globalist' Agenda
The US decision to leave the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) stems from accusations of promoting 'woke' culture and supporting Palestine against Israel.
In a move that marks the second time under the Trump administration, the United States has announced its withdrawal from Unesco.
The decision comes amid claims that the organization aligns with a "globalist" and "ideological" agenda contrary to American interests.
This action follows similar steps taken by the US in exiting other international bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Paris Climate Agreement.Unesco, established in 1945 post-World War II to foster peace through international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication, has a membership of 194 countries.
The agency is well-known for its World Heritage Sites listing.
The US withdrawal will become effective from December 2026.
Audrey Azoulay, the Director-General of Unesco, described the decision as "regrettable" but not unexpected.The US State Department criticized Unesco's agenda, asserting that it conflicts with the 'America First' foreign policy strategy.
Specifically, the inclusion of Palestine in Unesco in 2011 is cited as problematic and contrary to long-standing US policy towards Israel.
Azoulay countered these claims by emphasizing Unesco's efforts in promoting Holocaust education and combating anti-Semitism.This withdrawal could impact various initiatives supported by the organization.
For instance, many American communities and institutions have sought participation in Unesco programs such as World Heritage site nominations, Creative City recognition, and University Chair designations.
The move also reflects broader tensions regarding multilateralism and international cooperation.
The decision comes amid claims that the organization aligns with a "globalist" and "ideological" agenda contrary to American interests.
This action follows similar steps taken by the US in exiting other international bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Paris Climate Agreement.Unesco, established in 1945 post-World War II to foster peace through international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication, has a membership of 194 countries.
The agency is well-known for its World Heritage Sites listing.
The US withdrawal will become effective from December 2026.
Audrey Azoulay, the Director-General of Unesco, described the decision as "regrettable" but not unexpected.The US State Department criticized Unesco's agenda, asserting that it conflicts with the 'America First' foreign policy strategy.
Specifically, the inclusion of Palestine in Unesco in 2011 is cited as problematic and contrary to long-standing US policy towards Israel.
Azoulay countered these claims by emphasizing Unesco's efforts in promoting Holocaust education and combating anti-Semitism.This withdrawal could impact various initiatives supported by the organization.
For instance, many American communities and institutions have sought participation in Unesco programs such as World Heritage site nominations, Creative City recognition, and University Chair designations.
The move also reflects broader tensions regarding multilateralism and international cooperation.
