Former US President Donald Trump has once again withdrawn the United States from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), criticizing the agency for its alleged “anti-Israel stance” and calling it politically biased and wasteful.
This marks the second time Trump has exited UNESCO. During his presidency in 2017, he also announced a withdrawal for similar reasons. The US later rejoined under President Joe Biden in 2023. Trump’s renewed exit underscores his foreign policy approach of disengagement from multilateral institutions.
Accusations of Bias
Trump accused UNESCO of targeting Israel unfairly, referencing past resolutions on Israeli occupation in East Jerusalem and Gaza, which he termed “one-sided.” He also criticized the agency’s budget management and claimed the US should not “waste taxpayer dollars on biased institutions.”
UNESCO officials have not yet issued an official response but diplomatic sources express concern over the implications for global cultural cooperation and heritage protection.
Global Impact and Criticism
Analysts warn the move could undermine international efforts on:
- Education and literacy programs
- Climate and water research
- Cultural heritage preservation, especially in conflict zones
Trump’s decision drew sharp criticism from international diplomats and cultural advocates, many of whom say the US risks losing influence in global soft power diplomacy.
Historical Context
The US has had a turbulent history with UNESCO, having previously withdrawn in 1984 under President Reagan and again under Trump in 2017. The organization has often been at the center of US-Israel-Palestinian diplomatic tensions.
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