U.S. Withdraws from UNESCO for the Third Time | WPN World People News

Citing a conflict between continued participation in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and its “America First” national interests, the United States announced on July 22 its decision to withdraw from the organization. The withdrawal will take effect on December 31, 2026, marking the third time the U.S. has exited UNESCO.

According to a statement by U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce, UNESCO has shown a consistent bias favoring Palestine and mainland China, while spreading anti-Israel rhetoric. The organization is also seen as promoting divisive and "woke" cultural and social agendas, and heavily focuses on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals—views the U.S. considers part of a globalist and ideological development agenda. Bruce also noted that several top UNESCO officials are Chinese nationals, further highlighting the organization’s misalignment with American priorities. The U.S. formally notified UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay of its decision on July 22.

In response, Director-General Azoulay stated that UNESCO has undergone structural reforms in recent years. She emphasized that U.S. contributions now account for only 8% of the organization’s total budget, and its diversified funding sources have offset the financial impact. Headquartered in Paris, UNESCO’s mission is to promote world peace through international cooperation in education, science, and culture. The U.S. previously withdrew in 1984, rejoined in 2003, left again in 2018 under President Trump, and re-entered during the Biden administration. This marks the third U.S. withdrawal from the organization.