The United States has announced its decision to exit the United Nations cultural agency UNESCO by December 31, 2026. This marks the third time the U.S. has withdrawn, citing ideological differences and claims of institutional bias.

The move comes just two years after rejoining under the Biden administration.

Key Points:

• The U.S. announced its formal withdrawal from UNESCO, effective December 31, 2026, citing concerns over ideological alignment and globalist policies.
• This will be the third U.S. withdrawal from UNESCO, following exits under President Reagan in 1984 and President Trump in 2018.
• The decision is part of a broader reassessment of U.S. involvement in multilateral organizations under the renewed “America First” foreign policy.
• The U.S. rejoined UNESCO in 2023 under President Biden, contributing approximately 8% to its budget and resuming voting rights.
• UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay expressed regret but affirmed the organization’s continued commitment to global cooperation and cultural preservation.