The United States announced Tuesday its intention to withdraw once again from UNESCO, the United Nations’ educational, scientific, and cultural agency. This decision, effective at the end of December 2026, stems from the belief that continued involvement is not in the US’s national interest and that UNESCO supports what it perceives as anti-Israel rhetoric.
Concerns Over “Divisive Agenda” and Palestinian Membership
This marks the third time the US will leave UNESCO, and the second time under a Trump administration, coming just two years after rejoining in 2023 under President Joe Biden. The US had previously withdrawn in 2018 during Donald Trump’s first term.
Tammy Bruce, spokesperson for the US Department of State, cited UNESCO’s “perceived agenda of supporting divisive social and cultural causes” as the reason for the withdrawal. In a statement, she added that UNESCO’s decision “to accept the ‘State of Palestine’ as a member state is highly problematic, contrary to US policy, and contributes to the escalation of anti-Israel rhetoric within the organization.” The US and Israel had previously cut funding to UNESCO after the organization voted to include Palestine as a member state in 2011.
UNESCO’s Response and Future Outlook
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay expressed “deep regret” at the US decision but acknowledged it was anticipated and that the agency “is prepared for it.” She denied accusations of bias against Israel, stating, “These accusations… are contrary to the reality of UNESCO’s efforts, especially in the field of Holocaust education and the fight against anti-Semitism.”
While the US withdrawal is expected to impact UNESCO’s budget, as Washington contributes a portion of the organization’s funding, UNESCO anticipates it will manage. The agency has diversified its funding sources in recent years, and the US contribution has shrunk, now representing only 8 percent of the organization’s total budget. Azoulay pledged that UNESCO would continue its mission despite “reduced resources” and stated that the organization is not currently planning staff cuts.
“UNESCO’s goal is to accept all nations of the world, and the United States of America is and will always be welcome,” she said. “We will continue to work closely with all our American partners in the private sector, in scientific and non-profit organizations, and will develop political dialogue with the administration and the American Congress.”
The United States previously withdrew from UNESCO during Ronald Reagan’s administration in 1984, citing mismanagement, corruption, and the organization’s alleged misuse for advancing Soviet interests. The US rejoined UNESCO in 2003 under President George W. Bush.
