U.S. to Withdraw from UNESCO in Shift Toward Unilateral Cultural Policy

By: TPA News Desk | World News | www.thepointafricanews.com/world

In a move echoing its approach in the Trump administration’s first term, the United States officially declared on Tuesday that it will withdraw from UNESCO, citing concerns over the agency’s perceived support for “woke, divisive cultural and social causes” and its stance on Palestine. The withdrawal, confirmed by the U.S. State Department, will take effect on December 31, 2026, marking the third occasion—after exits in 1984 and 2018—that Washington has left the UN-backed educational and cultural body.

State Department spokesperson Anna Kelly criticized UNESCO’s policies, including its acceptance of Palestine as a full member in 2011, which she said contributed to an environment of “anti-Israel rhetoric.” She added that the agency’s emphasis on a globalist development agenda, particularly its adoption of sustainable development and equity programs, conflicts with the current U.S. foreign policy priorities.

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay responded by expressing deep regret, noting the organization had anticipated the decision and taken measures to buffer against the financial impact. With the U.S. now accounting for approximately 8 percent of its budget—down from nearly 22 percent in 2011—the agency emphasized it would continue its mission uninterrupted, without planned staff reductions.

Analysts say the decision highlights a growing tension between multilateral cooperation and U.S. domestic political priorities. The agency’s work spans educational initiatives, world heritage preservation, cultural dialogue, and scientific research—endeavors that may now proceed with fewer American contributions. Governments including Israel have welcomed the move, while critics fear it could embolden competing global influences, particularly from China.

The United States’ departure from UNESCO is part of a broader pattern that includes previous withdrawals from the World Health Organization and the U.N. Human Rights Council under the same administration. President Trump’s “America First” doctrine prioritizes national sovereignty and a reevaluation of global partnerships. Whether there will be renewed engagement under a future administration remains uncertain.