By Erewunmi Peace

In a controversial move, U.S. President Donald Trump has once again ordered the United States to withdraw from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), citing political bias, ideological concerns, and global threats to national interests.

The decision, which was confirmed on July 22, marks the third time in history the U.S. will leave the global cultural body—previously under President Reagan in 1984 and Trump in 2017. The latest exit is expected to take full effect by December 31, 2026.

Reasons Behind the Exit

According to White House officials and Trump campaign allies, the administration believes UNESCO has become “politicized,” with particular disapproval of its alleged anti-Israel bias and support for what they describe as “woke globalist agendas.”

“The United States cannot continue to fund or legitimize an organization that undermines our allies and national priorities,” a senior Trump adviser told reporters in Washington.

What’s at Stake?

The United States currently contributes approximately 8% of UNESCO’s total budget, and its withdrawal could affect programs related to:

World Heritage conservation

Global education and literacy

Artificial intelligence ethics

Media freedom and cultural preservation

Analysts warn that the move could reduce U.S. influence in shaping international standards and allow rival powers like China and Russia to expand their global footprint within UN structures.

In 2011, the U.S. suspended financial contributions after UNESCO admitted Palestine as a full member.

Trump officially withdrew the U.S. in 2017 (effective 2018), citing the same reasons.

President Joe Biden reversed that decision in 2023, emphasizing U.S. leadership in global education and culture.

Trump, now in his second term, has reversed Biden’s re-entry with a fresh withdrawal.

UNESCO Responds

UNESCO’s Director-General, Audrey Azoulay, expressed disappointment but reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to “working with all global partners to promote peace through education, science, and culture.”

Meanwhile, Israel welcomed the move, while other countries have criticized the U.S. decision as a setback to multilateral diplomacy.