The United States is once again pulling out of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), after a directive from President Donald Trump. The decision comes after a 90-day internal review ordered earlier this year to evaluate the organization’s stance on Israel and its overall alignment with the US.
The review found that UNESCO promoted what the administration called “woke, divisive cultural and social causes,” as well as policies seen as biased against Israel and favorable to China.
Officials specifically pointed to the group’s emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, along with its perceived anti-Israel actions at the executive board level.
“President Trump has decided to withdraw the United States from UNESCO — which supports woke, divisive cultural and social causes that are totally out-of-step with the commonsense policies that Americans voted for in November,” White House deputy spokesperson Anna Kelly said, according to the New York Post.
“This President will always put America First and ensure our country’s membership in all international organizations aligns with our national interests.”
UNESCO initiatives cited in the administration’s concerns include its 2023 “anti-racism toolkit,” which encouraged member nations to adopt equity-focused policies and strive to lead in social justice efforts. The organization’s 2024 “Transforming MEN’talities” campaign also drew criticism for aiming to shift “harmful gender norms” in countries like India.
Another point of contention was a UNESCO report examining how video games could be used to promote gender equality. “It is not only about controlling the negative impacts, but also relying on video games to address socio-cultural stereotypes and encourage positive, antidiscriminatory behaviors,” said Gabriela Ramos, UNESCO assistant director-general for social and human sciences.
In terms of foreign influence, the administration expressed concern over China’s role in the organization. A senior White House official said, “China has leveraged its influence over UNESCO to advance global standards that are favorable to Beijing’s interests.”
Beijing is the second-largest contributor to the organization, and Chinese officials, including deputy director-general Xing Qu, hold high-level positions.
UNESCO has also faced criticism for referring to Jewish holy sites as “Palestinian World Heritage” locations and labeling Israel as an occupying power in its statements on the conflict with Hamas.
Trump also previously pulled the US out of UNESCO in 2017 during his first term.
