By Anthony Marcus for Eurasia Business News, July 22, 2025. Article n°1645.

President Donald Trump has decided to withdraw the United States from UNESCO following a 90-day review that highlighted concerns about the organization’s promotion of what his administration called “woke,” divisive cultural and social initiatives. The White House criticized UNESCO for policies related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), perceived anti-Israel bias, and a pro-Palestinian and pro-China tilt.

Back in February, Trump ordered to study the feasibility of participating in UNESCO because of the agency’s “pro-Chinese and pro-Palestinian bias.” The United States withdrew from the organization during the Republican’s first term, but returned in 2023.

Specifically, the Trump administration opposed UNESCO’s 2023 anti-racism toolkit, the upcoming 2024 “Transforming MEN’talities” gender initiative, and the designation of certain Jewish holy sites as Palestinian heritage. Beijing’s growing influence in the organization, including its status as the second-largest funder, was also a factor in the decision.

This move marks the second withdrawal by the U.S. under Trump’s leadership—initially occurring in 2017—and follows the U.S. rejoining UNESCO in 2023 under President Biden. The Trump administration framed the exit as part of an “America First” approach, emphasizing that U.S. participation in international organizations must align with national interests and the policies supported by American voters.

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© Copyright 2025 – Eurasia Business News. Article no. 1645.