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In a significant development, the United States has announced its decision to withdraw from UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) by December 2026, citing what it perceives as the agency’s anti-Israel bias and its recognition of the State of Palestine as a full member. This marks the third withdrawal of the U.S. from UNESCO and the second under President Donald Trump’s leadership, having previously exited in 2018 and rejoined in 2023 under the Biden administration.

Reasons for U.S. Withdrawal

According to the U.S. State Department, the decision stems from:

• UNESCO’s admission of the State of Palestine as a member state, which contradicts official U.S. policy.
• Allegations that UNESCO promotes divisive social and cultural causes.
• Concerns about the proliferation of anti-Israel rhetoric within the organization.

About UNESCO

Founding and Mandate

• Founded: 16 November 1945 (Constitution in force from 1946).
• Headquarters: Paris, France.
• Parent Body: United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
• Membership: 194 member states and 12 associate members.
• Origin: Born out of post–World War II efforts to foster peace through education, science, and culture.

Objectives

UNESCO aims to build global peace and security by:

• Promoting international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication.
• Supporting literacy, educational access, and free universal education.
• Acting as a clearinghouse of knowledge, especially in global South nations.

Focus Areas

UNESCO operates in five major sectors:

1. Education
2. Natural Sciences
3. Social and Human Sciences
4. Culture
5. Communication and Information

Key Functions and Initiatives

Flagship Initiatives

• World Heritage Convention (1972): Protects cultural and natural sites of outstanding universal value.
• Man and the Biosphere Programme (1971): Promotes sustainable development through biosphere reserves.
• Convention for Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage (2003): Preserves oral traditions, performing arts, and rituals.
• Global Education Coalition (2020): Formed during COVID-19 to ensure education continuity.
• Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (2021): Sets global standards for ethical AI development.

Important Publications

• Global Education Monitoring Report
• World Water Development Report
• World Trends in Freedom of Expression and Media Development

Strategic Importance of UNESCO

• Acts as a platform for intercultural dialogue and peacebuilding.
• Enhances scientific cooperation for issues like climate change and disaster preparedness.
• Supports freedom of expression and combats misinformation globally.
• Promotes equity in global education and digital access.
• Plays a key role in setting ethical standards in science and technology.

U.S. and UNESCO: A Tumultuous Relationship

• The U.S. has historically had a strained relationship with UNESCO:
  • 1984: First withdrawal under Ronald Reagan, citing mismanagement and politicization.
  • 2002: Rejoined under George W. Bush.
  • 2011: Stopped funding after UNESCO admitted Palestine as a member.
  • 2018: Withdrew under Donald Trump.
  • 2023: Rejoined under Joe Biden.
  • 2026: Set to withdraw again.

Implications of U.S. Withdrawal

• Financial Impact: The U.S. has historically contributed around 22% of UNESCO’s budget.
• Geopolitical Signal: Reflects a broader American skepticism towards multilateral institutions.
• Operational Effect: May hamper UNESCO’s work, especially in politically sensitive or conflict regions.
• Diplomatic Fallout: Could weaken the U.S.'s soft power and global cultural influence.