US exits UN cultural body, citing national interest

United States Announces Exit from UNESCO in 2026

In a bold announcement Tuesday, the United States declared it would withdraw from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), stating the global cultural agency was biased against Israel and promoted “divisive” causes.

Statement by State Department Spokeswoman

• “Continued involvement in UNESCO is not in the national interest of the United States,” said Tammy Bruce.

UNESCO’s Response

• UNESCO called the departure regrettable but not surprising.
• It indicated the financial effect would be limited.

Historical Context

• President Donald Trump previously ordered the U.S. withdrawal from UNESCO in 2017.
• President Joe Biden later reestablished U.S. membership.

Director‑General Audrey Azoulay’s Comments

• “I deeply regret President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw the United States of America from UNESCO,” Azoulay said.
• She added that the move contradicted the fundamental principles of multilateralism.
• She concluded that while the announcement was regrettable, it was anticipated and UNESCO had prepared for it.

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Structure and Support Diversify

According to UNESCO’s chief communicator, Azoulay highlighted that the organization has undergone significant structural reforms and has broadened its funding base by tapping into private and voluntary governmental contributions.

Shift in U.S. Budget Share

Azoulay noted that the United States now contributes roughly eight percent of UNESCO’s total budget—a sharp decline from close to twenty percent a decade ago, according to an anonymous UNESCO insider.

Staff Stability Guaranteed

• No plans to reduce staff numbers were announced.

UNESCO lists Yemeni Marib ruins linked to ancient Saba kingdom

AFP journalists John MacDougall report that the organization has added several archaeological sites in Yemen’s Marib province to its World Heritage list.

Marib highlights ancient trade routes

• Ruins date back to the Saba kingdom, known for its advanced irrigation.
• UNESCO cites the site’s potential to illustrate the region’s historic economic network.

UNESCO’s expanding world heritage roster

The list now includes locations in the Wadi Marib valley where evidence of Sabaite stonework has been uncovered.

Local experts applaud inclusion

Marib officials say the listing could boost cultural tourism and preserve the country’s ancient heritage.

Future preservation plans

UNESCO plans to collaborate with Yemeni authorities to secure and restore the newly listed sites.

Trump Announces US Withdrawal from UNESCO for Second Time

President Donald Trump has declared the United States will officially disengage from UNESCO once more, marking the second occurrence of this resignation.

Why the US Is Leaving UNESCO

• Political Motives: The move stems from a desire to push back against international programs that the US claims negatively affect American interests.
• Educational Concerns: Trump’s administration cited concerns over UNESCO’s directives in Holocaust education and the broader fight against antisemitism.
• “Purely Political”: UNESCO staff described the US decision as a “purely political choice, devoid of any factual basis.”

UNESCO’s Response

UNESCO officials stated that Washington’s claims do not align with the reality of the organization’s efforts. The agency emphasized its continued focus on Holocaust remembrance and the development of anti-antisemitism initiatives.

Implications for Global Education

With the US withdrawal, UNESCO’s initiatives in Holocaust education may face additional scrutiny. The organization is committed to maintaining these programs regardless of political changes.

UNESCO Faces Funding Challenges After US Withdrawal

Historic Sites Encounter New Financial Hurdles

The ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu received UNESCO World Heritage status in 1981. Since the United States withdrew its funding in 2017, the organization has had to operate without this essential support for several years.

Unprecedented Adaptation Efforts

• UNESCO has made significant adjustments to its operational framework.
• Despite these efforts, the organization still requires additional sources of financial support.

International Reactions to US Departure

Israeli Praise for UN Justice Initiative

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar expressed his approval of the United States’ decision, stating on X that “this is a necessary step designed to promote justice and Israel’s right for fair treatment in the UN system.”

French President Confirms UN Commitment

French President Emmanuel Macron also posted on X, affirming that “UNESCO has his unwavering support that will not weaken after the US departure.”

UNESCO’s Core Mission and Heritage List

The United Nations organization is dedicated to promoting education, scientific cooperation, and cultural understanding across the globe.

Key Heritage Sites Maintained by UNESCO

• Australia’s Great Barrier Reef
• East Africa’s Serengeti
• Greece’s Acropolis of Athens
• Egypt’s Pyramids

US UNESCO Membership History

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has seen the United States play a pivotal role in its world heritage committee, even after formally withdrawing its membership. This pattern dates back to the 1980s under President Ronald Reagan, who cited corruption and a pro-Soviet bias within the agency. The US re-entered the organization during President George W. Bush’s term, only to be officially removed again under President Donald Trump’s administration.

Key Milestones

• Reagan Era (1980s) – US withdrawal from UNESCO; accusation of corruption.
• Bush Administration (2000s) – Return to UNESCO; re-established US representation.
• Trump Administration (2017) – Formal US exit from UNESCO; continued committee participation.
• Biden Administration (2024) – Successful restoration of US UNESCO membership; paid $619 million arrears.

Impact on World Heritage Sites

Venice’s iconic Canal Grande and the Rialto Bridge, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, continue to benefit from the US’s restored involvement. The US contribution has helped sustain maintenance and conservation efforts for these landmarks.

Future Prospects

UNESCO Director Louisa Azoulay expressed optimism, stating the United States is always welcome back. The US may rejoin the organization anytime, ensuring continued support for global heritage sites.