The United States has announced its decision to leave the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The withdrawal was initiated by the US State Department, which cited the organization’s “continuing anti-Israel bias” as a primary reason for the decision. The US had previously withheld funding from UNESCO in 2011 due to the organization’s decision to admit Palestine as a member, despite Congressional opposition.
The withdrawal will take effect on December 31, 2018, and the US will no longer participate in UNESCO’s activities or decision-making processes. The decision has sparked discussions about the implications for global cooperation on education, science, and culture. UNESCO has expressed regret over the US decision, highlighting the importance of US involvement in the organization’s work.
The US has historically been a significant contributor to UNESCO, and its withdrawal may impact the organization’s ability to achieve its goals. The move is seen as part of a broader shift in US foreign policy and has sparked debate about the role of international organizations in promoting global understanding and cooperation.
