Quick Read
- The U.S. announced its withdrawal from UNESCO on July 22, 2025, effective December 31, 2026.
- The Trump administration cited concerns over anti-Israel bias and ideological agendas.
- UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay expressed regret but emphasized the organization’s progress in recent years.
- The withdrawal reignites debates on U.S. multilateral engagement and cultural diplomacy.
- UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites in the U.S., such as Independence Hall and the Grand Canyon, remain significant despite the decision.
The United States has once again announced its withdrawal from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), reigniting international debates about multilateralism and cultural heritage preservation. The decision, revealed on July 22, 2025, by the Trump administration, comes just two years after the U.S. had rejoined the organization under President Joe Biden. This marks the second time in recent history that the U.S. has exited UNESCO during Donald Trump’s leadership.
Reasons Behind the Withdrawal
The Trump administration cited several reasons for its decision to leave UNESCO. According to State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce, the organization promotes “divisive social and cultural causes” and aligns with a “globalist ideological agenda” that conflicts with the administration’s “America First” foreign policy. The administration also took issue with UNESCO’s recognition of Palestine as a member state, describing it as “highly problematic” and alleging that it contributes to anti-Israel rhetoric. The White House reiterated these concerns in a statement, emphasizing that continued U.S. involvement in UNESCO is “not in the national interest.”
Critics, however, argue that the decision undermines the U.S.’s role as a global leader in cultural diplomacy. Mary Ellen O’Connell, an international law professor at Notre Dame, expressed her disapproval, stating that the withdrawal “deals another blow to the reputation of the United States as a world leader in peace, human rights, and cultural preservation.” (OSV News)
UNESCO’s Response and Global Reactions
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay expressed regret over the U.S. decision but noted that it was not unexpected. In her statement, Azoulay highlighted UNESCO’s recent progress in fostering international cooperation and addressing critical issues like Holocaust education and the fight against antisemitism. She also pointed out that the organization’s funding has become more diversified, reducing its reliance on U.S. contributions, which now account for only 8% of its budget. (Reuters)
French President Emmanuel Macron also voiced his support for UNESCO, calling it a “universal protector” of world heritage. Meanwhile, Israel welcomed the U.S. withdrawal, with Israeli officials criticizing UNESCO for what they perceive as a consistent bias against their country. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar thanked the U.S. for its “moral support and leadership.”
Implications for Cultural Heritage
UNESCO is perhaps best known for its World Heritage Sites program, which aims to preserve landmarks of cultural and historical significance. The United States is home to 26 such sites, including Independence Hall, the Statue of Liberty, and the Grand Canyon. These sites symbolize not only national pride but also global efforts to protect humanity’s shared heritage.
In Pennsylvania, for example, UNESCO has recognized Independence Hall for its role in shaping democratic principles, as well as Fallingwater, a modern architectural marvel designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. UNESCO also acknowledges the Moravian Church settlements in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, for their unique architectural and religious significance. Despite the U.S. withdrawal, the National Park Service has committed to continuing its preservation efforts for these sites, as it did during the previous withdrawal. (ABC News)
Historical Context
The U.S. has a tumultuous history with UNESCO. It first withdrew from the organization in 1984 under President Ronald Reagan, citing financial mismanagement and anti-U.S. bias. The country rejoined in 2003 under President George W. Bush after UNESCO implemented reforms. However, funding was halted in 2011 when UNESCO admitted Palestine as a member state, leading to a $542 million debt in unpaid dues. The Trump administration first announced its withdrawal in 2017, a decision reversed by Biden in 2023. This latest move marks another chapter in the U.S.’s inconsistent relationship with the organization. (Reuters)
Looking Ahead
The U.S. withdrawal from UNESCO will officially take effect on December 31, 2026. This decision raises questions about the future of multilateral cooperation and the role of the U.S. in global cultural diplomacy. While UNESCO has vowed to continue its mission without U.S. involvement, the loss of American support may have symbolic repercussions for international efforts to protect cultural heritage.
As the world reacts to this development, the broader implications for international collaboration and cultural preservation remain uncertain, reminding us of the fragile balance between national interests and global commitments.