USA to Exit UNESCO by December 2026 Citing ‘Divisive Cultural Agendas’, Says President Donald Trump.
International
In a major geopolitical development, the United States of America (USA) has decided to exit the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for the third time in history. The announcement was made by U.S. President Donald Trump in July 2025, with the withdrawal set to take effect from December 31, 2026. The move has reignited global concerns over ideological divides and the future of international cooperation in education and culture.
- The United States government cited significant ideological differences with UNESCO’s policies and programs, specifically labeling them as “divisive social and cultural causes.” The administration emphasized that these programs no longer align with U.S. national interests and sovereignty.
- The official reasons for withdrawal include objections to UNESCO's frameworks that promote Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), anti-racism curriculum, and gender-focused initiatives like “Transforming MEN’talities.”
- Additionally, the U.S. opposed UNESCO’s support for UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to climate change, LGBTQ+ inclusion, cultural diversity, and global equity frameworks.
Main Point :- (i) This will be the third instance of the USA pulling out of UNESCO. The first occurred in 1984 under President Ronald Reagan due to similar ideological disputes. After nearly two decades, the country rejoined in 2003 during the presidency of George W. Bush. The second withdrawal came in 2017 when President Trump cited anti-Israel bias and Palestine’s inclusion as a full member. The U.S. rejoined again under President Joe Biden in July 2023.
(ii) The impact of the U.S. exit will be significant as it currently contributes over 8% of UNESCO’s total budget. The financial shortfall may hinder UNESCO’s educational and cultural programs worldwide. In addition, the withdrawal would reduce U.S. influence in shaping global standards in education, cultural heritage, and technology.
(iii) This announcement follows a similar move in January 2025 when the U.S. also withdrew from the World Health Organization (WHO), underscoring its ongoing disengagement from multilateral global bodies.
About United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
Director-General (DG) Audrey Azoulay
Headquarters : Paris, France
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