Washington, D.C.(WDNews) – The United States has officially notified UNESCO of its decision to withdraw from the organization, citing concerns over ideological conflicts and anti-Israel bias.
In a statement released Tuesday, the U.S. government said its continued participation in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization is “not in the national interest.” The decision was formally communicated to UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay.
The statement accuses UNESCO of promoting “divisive social and cultural causes” and aligning too closely with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, which it labeled as a “globalist, ideological agenda.” It also criticized UNESCO for admitting the “State of Palestine” as a member, calling the move inconsistent with U.S. policy and a contributor to anti-Israel rhetoric.
“Continued U.S. participation in international organizations will focus on advancing American interests with clarity and conviction,” the statement reads.
Under Article II(6) of the UNESCO Constitution, the withdrawal will officially take effect on December 31, 2026. Until then, the U.S. will continue to serve as a full member.
