President Donald Trump is pulling the United States out of UNESCO, slamming the door on an organization he calls a breeding ground for anti-American and anti-Israel agendas, as the New York Post reports. The decision reflects a growing frustration with UNESCO’s embrace of divisive diversity, equity, and inclusion policies and its cozy ties with China. It’s a bold move that’s sure to rattle globalist cages.
Trump’s withdrawal stems from UNESCO’s perceived anti-Israel bias, pro-Palestinian leanings, and a progressive agenda that clashes with American values. A 90-day review ordered in February uncovered troubling issues, including policies pushing social justice and gender initiatives that critics argue prioritize ideology over substance. The White House sees this as a necessary stand for national interests.
In 2017, Trump first yanked the U.S. out of UNESCO, citing its anti-Israel stance. Former President Joe Biden reversed that decision in 2023, rejoining to counter China’s influence and pledging over $600 million to cover dues unpaid since 2011, when Palestine gained membership. Trump’s latest move signals a return to his America-first playbook.
Former President Ronald Reagan set the precedent in 1983, pulling the U.S. from UNESCO for politicizing issues and showing hostility toward free markets and free press. His administration called UNESCO’s actions “extraneously politicized,” a sentiment Trump echoes today. The organization’s budget excesses and anti-Western tilt haven’t changed much since.
UNESCO’s recent actions have only fueled the fire. It's 2023 “anti-racism toolkit” urges nations to adopt policies that critics say prioritize ideology over practicality, pushing a “race to the top” for social justice. Such initiatives feel like a lecture from an out-of-touch global elite.
The organization’s gender programs, like the 2024 “Transforming MEN’talities” initiative in India, aim to reshape men’s views on gender norms. UNESCO claims it’s about tackling harmful stereotypes, but critics see it as overreach into cultural matters best left to sovereign nations. It’s a classic case of mission creep.
UNESCO’s designation of Jewish holy sites as “Palestinian World Heritage” sites has drawn sharp criticism. The White House calls this move anti-Israel and anti-Jewish, a clear provocation that ignores historical realities. UNESCO’s frequent references to Palestine as “occupied” by Israel further stoke tensions.
The organization rarely condemns Hamas’ control over Gaza while consistently criticizing Israel’s actions. This one-sided approach, the White House argues, undermines any claim to impartiality. It’s no wonder Trump’s team sees UNESCO as a biased player on the world stage.
“President Trump has decided to withdraw the United States from UNESCO -- which supports woke, divisive cultural and social causes,” said White House deputy spokesperson Anna Kelly. She’s not wrong -- UNESCO’s agenda often feels like a progressive wish list, disconnected from the values of everyday Americans. The withdrawal is a rejection of that worldview.
China, UNESCO’s second-largest funder, wields significant clout within the organization. With figures like deputy director-general Xing Qu in key roles, Beijing pushes standards that downplay its issues, like the treatment of Uyghur Muslims. It’s a power play that Trump’s team refuses to subsidize.
UNESCO’s 2023 video game report is another head-scratcher, suggesting games should promote gender equality and antidiscriminatory behaviors. “It is not only about controlling negative impacts, but also relying on video games to address socio-cultural stereotypes,” said assistant director-general Gabriela Ramos. Sounds like a solution in search of a problem.
Ramos’ vision might thrill progressive academics, but it’s a stretch to think video games should be tools for social engineering. UNESCO’s focus on such niche issues raises questions about its priorities. Why is a global body meddling in gaming culture?
“This President will always put America First,” Anna Kelly declared, emphasizing Trump’s commitment to aligning U.S. participation in global bodies with national interests. UNESCO’s track record -- pushing policies that clash with American values -- makes it an easy target for withdrawal. The move is a clear signal: no more funding agendas that don’t serve the U.S.
The Biden administration’s decision to rejoin UNESCO was sold as a counter to China’s influence, but critics argue it was a costly misstep. Over $600 million in back dues for an organization that labels Jewish sites as Palestinian? That’s a tough sell to American taxpayers.
Trump’s withdrawal is a return to skepticism of global institutions that prioritize ideology over pragmatism. UNESCO’s woke initiatives and selective outrage on Israel prove it’s more interested in posturing than progress. For now, the U.S. is done footing the bill.
