US to withdraw from UNESCO, cites Palestine's membership

The US has announced its withdrawal from UNESCO effective December 31, 2026, citing the organisation's admission of Palestine as a member and conflicts with the Trump administration's "America First" foreign policy.

"Today, the United States informed Director-General Audrey Azoulay of the United States' decision to withdraw from UNESCO," State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said in a statement.

She added that continued involvement in the Paris-based agency "is not in the national interest" of Washington.

Bruce further said that UNESCO advances "divisive social and cultural causes" and maintains a focus on UN Sustainable Development Goals, describing them as a "globalist, ideological agenda for international development at odds with our America First foreign policy."

US says Palestine's admission as UNESCO member 'highly problematic'

The spokesperson called UNESCO's 2011 decision to admit Palestine as a member state "highly problematic, contrary to US policy," saying it contributed to "anti-Israel" rhetoric within the organisation.

The withdrawal repeats the Trump administration's 2018 exit from the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization over alleged "anti-Israel bias" and organisational mismanagement.

Washington previously withdrew from the institution in 1984, under the administration of then-President Ronald Reagan, due to concerns about the agency's "extraneous" politicisation, along with other reasons.

Under former President Joe Biden, the US rejoined as UNESCO's 194th member state in 2023.

American interests

Bruce said continued US participation in international organisations would focus on "advancing American interests with clarity and conviction."

Azoulay said she "deeply" regrets US President Donald Trump's decision to again withdraw from the organization.

"This decision contradicts the fundamental principles of multilateralism," Azoulay said.

She said the withdrawal reasons remain unchanged from seven years ago despite profound changes in political tensions and the agency's role as "a rare forum for consensus."

Announcement was 'anticipated'

Azoulay disputed US claims, highlighting UNESCO's Holocaust education efforts and fight against antisemitism.

"However regrettable, this announcement was anticipated, and UNESCO had prepared for it," said Azoulay.

She emphasised organisational reforms and funding diversification since 2018. US contributions now represent 8% of UNESCO's budget compared to 40% for some UN entities, while the organisation's overall budget has steadily increased, she said.

"The organisation is better protected in financial terms," Azoulay said, noting doubled voluntary contributions since 2018 and no planned layoffs.

She affirmed UNESCO welcomes all nations and will maintain partnerships with the American private sector, academia and non-profit organisations while pursuing political dialogue with the US administration and the American Congress.