The United States has again chosen to pull out of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), claiming that the organization supports "divisive social and cultural causes" and focuses too much on sustainable development. The news was announced on Tuesday by State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce.
This is the second time that the US is withdrawing from the Paris-based organization under the administration of President Donald Trump. The nation had earlier rejoined UNESCO during the presidency of Joe Biden two years ago.
Bruce confirmed that official notice of withdrawal has been sent and that the withdrawal will be effective at the end of next year.
She said UNESCO's "globalist, ideological agenda for international development" is the opposite of the United States' "America First foreign policy," and that the nation's "continued participation in UNESCO is not in the national interest of the United States."
Responding to the move, UN Secretary-General António Guterres was disappointed. According to his spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, Guterres "deeply regrets this withdrawal, in light of the major role the US has played in UNESCO since its creation."
Part of the Trump administration's main reservation with UNESCO is its position against Israel and the institution admitting Palestine as a member.
UNESCO's move to accept the 'State of Palestine' as a member state is greatly problematic, against US policy, and led to a proliferation of anti-Israel rhetoric in the organisation," Bruce said.
The move to exit UNESCO aligns with Trump's overall distrust of global institutions. He also withdrew the US from the World Health Organization early in his term, blaming it for its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and politicizing its work.
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay denounced the move, stating it diminishes the spirit of international cooperation.
She added, "The US decision is contrary to the very essence of multilateralism, and will impact first and foremost our numerous partners in the United States of America—site inscription communities on the World Heritage List, Creative City designation, and University Chairs."
Though there was a setback, Azoulay stated the agency had expected such an event and was financially ready.
"Much as it is regrettable, this decision was expected, and UNESCO has budgeted for it," she said.
The United States gave $28 million to UNESCO in 2023, representing 22 percent of the agency's total budget. But Azoulay noted that the institution is no longer as dependent on US contributions.
"Today, the organisation is better shielded in financial terms, with the stable support of a great number of member states and private donors" who have reduced the US share to 8 percent, she said.
