Trump quits another U.N. agency—this time it’s UNESCO

The U.S. is set to withdraw from UNESCO for the second time in recent history, effective December 31, 2026. The Trump administration initially cut ties in 2017, citing anti-Israel bias, a stance the current administration continues to echo. The White House claims UNESCO promotes divisive causes and an ideological agenda conflicting with "America First" policies. UNESCO aims to foster peace through international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication. It designates and protects World Heritage Sites, including 26 in the U.S. The U.S. rejoined UNESCO in 2023, pledging to pay back dues of $600 million, having previously contributed 22% of its funding. UNESCO denies anti-Israel bias, highlighting its Holocaust education efforts. The agency has diversified funding since 2018, mitigating the impact of the U.S. withdrawal. UNESCO will continue working with American partners despite the challenges posed by the U.S. decision.