The United States government has officially announced its withdrawal from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), citing longstanding policy disagreements and concerns over the organization’s direction and governance.
In a statement released by the U.S. Department of State’s Office of the Spokesperson on July 21, 2025, Washington said it could no longer justify its membership in an organization whose policies “undermine American interests and values.” The decision, which takes effect immediately, marks a renewed phase of diplomatic disengagement and reassertion of unilateralism under the current U.S. administration.
According to the official statement on the State Department’s website, the U.S. expressed deep frustration over what it described as “UNESCO’s continued politicization and institutional bias,” especially in matters relating to global heritage and education policy.
This is not the first time the U.S. has exited UNESCO. The nation previously withdrew in 1984 under President Ronald Reagan, rejoined in 2003, and again pulled out in 2017 during the Trump administration, only to return in 2023. However, this fresh withdrawal could have far-reaching implications on global education, cultural preservation, and scientific cooperation, especially in regions where U.S.-UNESCO partnerships were critical.
While critics warn the exit may weaken America’s global influence and commitment to multilateral diplomacy, supporters argue it reinforces the need for institutional reform within the UN system.
UNESCO has not yet issued a formal response to the U.S. decision, but diplomatic sources suggest that discussions are underway to address member concerns and reaffirm the organization’s foundational mission.
As the world watches how this move reshapes international cooperation, questions remain about what comes next — not only for UNESCO, but also for the role the United States intends to play on the global stage.
