The United States has announced it will withdraw from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) by the end of 2026. The State Department said the agency’s focus on divisive global causes and its recognition of Palestine as a member state go against U.S. interests.
This move follows a policy review ordered by President Trump after returning to office for a second term. While he acknowledged the UN’s potential, he criticised its management and ideological leanings. The administration views UNESCO’s emphasis on the UN Sustainable Development Goals as incompatible with its “America First” stance.
The U.S. had earlier left the agency in 2018 during Trump’s first term and rejoined in 2023 under President Biden. UNESCO, best known for its World Heritage Sites like the Statue of Liberty and Yellowstone, promotes international cooperation in education, science, and culture.
