The United States plans to withdraw from UNESCO, citing financial reasons, as well as what it said was anti-Israel bias at the U.N.’s educational, cultural and science organization. — the Washington Post
This morning, the U.S. notified the organization of their intention to withdraw at the end of 2018. Unesco, the United Nations cultural organization, supports a variety of programs promoting education, natural sciences, social/human sciences, culture and information around the world, but is perhaps best known for its designation of World Heritage Sites, of which there are 23 in the U.S.
The decision was made by the State Department, headed by Rex Tillerson, though the country has been at odds with the organization since we stopped funding in 2011 in protest of the admission of the Palestinian Authority as a full member. Since this withdrawal of funding, the U.S. has run up arrears to $550 million, another issue leading to the decision to pull out along with claims of anti-Israel bias.
The organization controversially listed the hotly contested core of Hebron, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, as a Palestinian World Heritage site back in July. The designation was fast-tracked on the basis that it was under threat, with the Palestinians accusing Israel—who will also be withdrawing from the organization—of an alarming number of violations, including vandalism and damage to properties. Around the same time, the heritage committee also backed a resolution condemning Israeli actions in Jerusalem.
The United States, who helped found UNESCO, will remain involved as a nonmember observer state. While unable to participate in voting, the U.S. will partake in discussions on culture, education, science, and communication. Of the choice, State Department officials said they hope it will push UNESCO to make changes that would satisfy Washington so the U.S. can resume full membership.
3 Comments
Yet another action that will isolate the US.
Can’t blame Trump for this one....this has been going on long before he came along.
Yes we can blame Trump for this. The decision was made by the State Dept.
Block this user
Are you sure you want to block this user and hide all related comments throughout the site?
Archinect
This is your first comment on Archinect. Your comment will be visible once approved.