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US Withdraws from UNESCO, Citing anti-American and anti-Israeli Sentiments, Progressive Ideals
In a meaningful foreign policy move, American President Donald Trump has announced the United states’ withdrawal from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).The decision, attributed to the organization’s perceived anti-American and anti-Israeli leanings, as well as its embrace of progressive ideologies, marks a continuation of the management’s critical stance towards international bodies.The White House revealed that the withdrawal follows a 90-day review initiated in February, which specifically scrutinized any “anti-Semitic or anti-Israeli sentiment within the organization.” Following this review,American officials voiced concerns regarding UNESCO’s policies on diversity,equality,and inclusivity,alongside accusations of a pro-China bias and a lack of transparency.
“President trump has decided to withdraw the United States from UNESCO, an organization that champions progressive, divisive cultural and social ideas that are fundamentally at odds with the values Americans voted for in November,” stated Anna kelly, Deputy White House secretary.
Specific initiatives cited as problematic include UNESCO’s 2023 publication, “Instrumentation for the Fight Against racism,” and its 2024 “Transformation of Mentality” initiative. The former reportedly urged member states to adopt “anti-racist” policies and engage in a “race to the top” for social justice, requiring them to address the history of racism within thier borders and work towards equality. Additionally,a gender program report from last year examined the potential of video games to advance gender equality.
The White House also alleged that UNESCO has utilized its executive committee to advance anti-Israeli and anti-Jewish measures, including the designation of Jewish holy sites as Palestinian World Heritage sites. Furthermore, the administration pointed to China’s substantial financial contributions and leadership positions within UNESCO as evidence of Beijing’s influence, suggesting that “China uses its influence on UNESCO to promote global standards that align with Beijing’s interests.”
This withdrawal echoes previous actions taken by the Trump administration. In February,President Trump issued an executive order to withdraw the US from the UN Human Rights Council and halt future funding for the UN Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The US had previously exited the Human Rights Council in 2018, citing its alleged anti-Israeli bias and a need for reform.
The decision also follows the Biden administration’s suspension of funding to UNRWA in January 2024, prompted by allegations of employee involvement in the October 7th Hamas attack on Israel.
The implications of the United States’ departure from UNESCO are expected to be far-reaching,potentially impacting global cultural heritage preservation and educational initiatives.
