Trump Administration Moves to Exit UNESCO

Donald Trump announced the United States’ decision to withdraw from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). He cited concerns over perceived anti-American and anti-Israeli biases within the organization, as well as its promotion of what he termed a “divisive” ideology. The withdrawal is set to take effect on December 31, 2026, according to the U.S. State Department.

A spokesperson from the White House emphasized that Trump prioritizes American interests, asserting that membership in international organizations should align with the national interest. The State Department’s statement indicated that remaining in UNESCO was incompatible with these interests, claiming the organization endorses a “globalist ideological agenda.” This includes a focus on the UN Sustainable Development Goals and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, which the Trump administration views as “divisive.” Among the criticized programs are UNESCO’s 2023 Anti-Racism Toolkit and the 2024 Transforming MEN’talities initiative, aimed at reshaping cultural attitudes toward gender.

The decision to exit UNESCO follows a 90-day review of the organization’s activities, initiated by Trump in February 2025 and conducted by the U.S. State Department. This review sought to uncover any instances of “anti-Semitism or anti-Israel sentiment” in UNESCO’s operations. Following the assessment, U.S. officials voiced their disapproval of the organization’s policies, alleging a pro-Palestinian and pro-China stance, as well as support for “progressive social and cultural causes” that White House Deputy Press Secretary Anne Kelly argued contradicted the values Americans expressed in the November elections.

This marks the second occasion the United States has withdrawn from UNESCO. In 1984, under President Ronald Reagan, the U.S. exited the organization, citing corruption and pro-Soviet bias. The country rejoined in 2003 under President George W. Bush, but ceased its financial contributions in 2011 after Palestine was granted full membership. In 2017, the Trump administration announced another withdrawal, which took effect in 2018, again pointing to anti-Israel bias and an outstanding debt of approximately $600 million. Although the U.S. rejoined UNESCO in 2023 under President Biden, Trump’s recent decision, just two years later, underscores the volatility of American policy toward the organization.