US announces withdrawal from UNESCO by end of 2026

The United States has officially notified the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) of its decision to withdraw from the organisation, with the move set to take effect on December 31, 2026.

According to a statement released by the US Department of State, the decision was communicated to UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, marking Washington's second withdrawal from the Paris-based agency in less than two decades.

"Today, the US informed UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay of the United States' decision to withdraw from UNESCO. Continued participation in UNESCO is not in the national interest of the United States," the State Department said.

The statement criticised the organisation’s direction, accusing it of promoting a “globalist and ideological agenda” that stands in opposition to the principles of the “America First” policy. The US also expressed firm objections to UNESCO’s recognition of Palestine as a member state.

“UNESCO's decision to admit the ‘State of Palestine’ as a member state is highly problematic, contradicts US policy, and contributes to the continued spread of anti-Israel rhetoric within the organisation,” the State Department’s statement added.

The US will officially cease to be a full member of UNESCO on December 31, 2026.

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay responded with regret but noted that the organisation had anticipated the decision. In a statement released by UNESCO’s press service, Azoulay expressed disappointment while underscoring the broader implications.

"I deeply regret President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw the United States of America from UNESCO once again, a decision that will take effect at the end of December 2026," Azoulay said. "This decision contradicts the fundamental principles of multilateralism and may primarily affect our many partners in the United States — communities seeking to include sites on the World Heritage List, obtain Creative City status, and establish university chairs."

Despite her disappointment, Azoulay acknowledged that UNESCO was prepared for such a scenario. She highlighted recent structural reforms and diversification in funding sources that have bolstered the organisation’s resilience. According to her, the US currently contributes around 8% of UNESCO’s total budget.

“At this stage, the organisation is not considering any cuts,” she stated.

By Tamilla Hasanova