Trump Administration Announces U.S. Withdrawal from UNESCO by 2026
The U.S. will withdraw from UNESCO by December 2026, citing its focus on divisive global agendas. The move marks the third U.S. exit from the agency and underscores the Trump administration's push to reshape America’s international commitments.
A Shift in Global Engagement
The U.S. State Department confirmed that the United States will withdraw from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) by December 2026. The decision, driven by President Donald Trump’s ongoing efforts to distance the U.S. from global institutions, is framed around claims that UNESCO supports “divisive social and cultural causes” misaligned with the administration’s America First foreign policy.
White House Criticism of UNESCO’s Agenda
According to State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce, UNESCO promotes a “globalist ideological agenda” heavily focused on the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The administration views these efforts as inconsistent with U.S. values and voter preferences. White House Deputy Spokesperson Anna Kelly reiterated these points, labeling UNESCO’s focus as "woke" and disconnected from “commonsense policies.”
Financial and Diplomatic Impact
The U.S., which contributes about 8% of UNESCO’s budget, has been one of its significant funders. However, officials in Paris said they were prepared for the financial and strategic repercussions of Washington’s exit, especially following a 90-day membership review initiated in early 2025.
Historical Tensions Between the U.S. and UNESCO
This is the third time the U.S. has withdrawn from UNESCO. The first exit occurred in 1983 under President Ronald Reagan, citing anti-Western bias. The U.S. rejoined in 2003 under President George W. Bush following promised reforms. In 2017, President Trump again pulled out during his first term, citing mounting arrears and anti-Israel bias. The U.S. returned under President Joe Biden in 2023 to counter rising Chinese influence within the organization.
Controversies and Contributions
A key point of contention remains UNESCO’s 2011 decision to admit Palestine as a member state, which prompted funding cuts from the Obama administration and contributed to rising U.S. arrears. Despite this, the Biden administration had committed to settling nearly $619 million in unpaid dues and funding programs on Holocaust remembrance, education access in Africa, and journalist safety.
Looking Forward
UNESCO, widely respected for initiatives such as World Heritage Site designations and promoting intercultural dialogue, will now prepare for a future without one of its founding and most influential members. The move reflects a broader U.S. strategy of reducing involvement in global institutions including the WHO, UN Human Rights Council, and UNRWA.
