Trump Withdraws the U.S. from UNESCO
President Donald Trump has announced the United States will withdraw from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), highlighting the agency’s perceived anti-American and left-leaning bias.
The administration made this decision public on Tuesday, noting that the move aligns with Trump’s earlier directive for a review of U.S. involvement with international organizations, including UNESCO. This review is set to culminate by the end of 2026.
“President Trump has decided to step back from UNESCO, reflecting the desires of American voters who support policies that resonate with their values,” White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said, emphasizing the need for U.S. participation in international bodies to align with national interests.
The planned withdrawal will follow an internal review mandated by Trump earlier this year. This review raised concerns over UNESCO’s initiatives, including what some officials describe as anti-Israel bias and support for various social agendas.
UNESCO Director Audrey Azoulay expressed regret over the decision, suggesting it undermines the principles of multilateral cooperation and could have broader implications for the U.S. partners engaged with the agency.
White House officials referenced specific UNESCO initiatives, such as their 2023 campaign promoting anti-racist policies and a 2024 initiative aimed at changing gender norms in India. Critics argue these efforts align with left-leaning social policies and further the organization’s perceived anti-Israel stance.
Additional contentions surround UNESCO’s relationship with China, particularly regarding its support for Chinese policies viewed as repressive. Some analysts suggest that China’s influence within UNESCO serves to promote its interests globally.
Historically, the U.S. has withdrawn from UNESCO under previous administrations due to similar concerns but rejoined under President Joe Biden. The U.S. had pledged to repay its back dues, amounting to $600 million, as part of this reinstated membership.
