By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
The United States has formally withdrawn from UNESCO, the United Nations cultural and educational agency, accusing the organization of bias against Israel and supporting “divisive” global causes. A spokesperson from the US State Department stated that the decision was made because continued membership was no longer in the best interest of the United States.
This move mirrors a similar action by President Donald Trump in 2017, although President Joe Biden had restored US participation in 2021.
State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce criticized UNESCO for its focus on what she described as “globalist, ideological agendas” and for prioritizing UN sustainability goals. She also condemned the organization’s decision to admit Palestine as a member, which she argued contradicted US policy and contributed to anti-Israel rhetoric.
UNESCO’s mission includes promoting education, scientific collaboration, and cultural understanding. The agency is also responsible for overseeing a list of world heritage sites such as the Great Barrier Reef, the Serengeti, and the Acropolis.
The US has withdrawn from UNESCO before: President Ronald Reagan pulled the country out in the 1980s, citing corruption and a pro-Soviet bias. The US rejoined under President George W. Bush.
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