Washington has announced it will withdraw from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), marking its third exit and second under a Trump administration. The decision, effective December 2026, comes just two years after the U.S. rejoined under President Biden in 2023.

The State Department, led by spokesperson Tammy Bruce, expressed concerns that UNESCO promotes divisive “woke” and ideological agendas, especially highlighting its decision to admit the “State of Palestine” as a member—deemed inconsistent with U.S. policy and accused of encouraging anti-Israel rhetoric.

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay responded with regret, emphasizing ongoing reforms and the organization’s vital work in Holocaust education and combating antisemitism. She noted that, while U.S. contributions now cover about 8% of the agency’s budget, diversified funding should soften the financial blow.

Analysts warn this move underscores a broader “America First” policy, following past U.S. withdrawals from the WHO, UN Human Rights Council, and the Paris climate agreement. Critics argue it weakens U.S. influence in global cultural and educational initiatives and cedes ground to emerging powers like China.

Meanwhile, UNESCO reaffirmed its commitment to global cooperation and heritage preservation, including managing World Heritage Sites in the U.S., and pledged to continue its mission without staff cuts.