The United States has formally notified the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) of its decision to withdraw from the agency, with the departure set to take effect on December 31, 2026. The announcement was delivered to UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, citing the organisation’s promotion of “divisive social and cultural causes” and alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which U.S. officials described as incompatible with its “America First” foreign policy. 

The U.S. also pointed to UNESCO’s 2011 decision to admit the State of Palestine as a Member State as contrary to American policy and a contributor to perceived anti-Israel rhetoric within the organisation. A White House statement emphasised that continued U.S. participation in international organisations will prioritise advancing American interests “with clarity and conviction.” 

Director-General Azoulay expressed deep regret over the decision, stating it contradicts the principles of multilateralism. She underscored that the move may affect UNESCO’s work with U.S.-based partners, including communities pursuing World Heritage Site recognition. UN Secretary-General António Guterres also voiced regret through a spokesperson. 

This marks the third U.S. withdrawal from UNESCO. The first occurred in 1984 under President Ronald Reagan, with re-entry in 2003. The Trump administration withdrew again in 2017, and the Biden administration rejoined in 2023. 

UNESCO noted it had anticipated this decision and has implemented reforms and diversified its funding sources. Although the U.S. currently contributes eight percent of UNESCO’s budget, financial stability has been maintained through increased contributions from other member states and private donors. 

Despite the planned withdrawal, UNESCO affirmed that the U.S. remains welcome and that collaboration with American institutions will continue. Consequences of the withdrawal for higher education and research in the U.S. are yet to be seen, but the move will likely place the U.S. at a disadvantage in discussions and research on global issues.