Trump to pull US out of UNESCO over DEI policies, pro-Palestinian, pro-China tilt

President Trump has announced the U.S. withdrawal from UNESCO, citing its anti-American and anti-Israel biases, as well as its promotion of policies misaligned with U.S. interests. The decision follows a 90-day review initiated in February, focusing on “anti-Semitism or anti-Israel sentiment within the organization,” according to a White House official.

The review criticized UNESCO’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion policies, its 2023 “anti-racism toolkit” urging member states to adopt “anti-racist” policies, and the 2024 “Transforming MEN’talities” initiative, which aims to reshape gender norms, particularly in India. UNESCO’s video game report also pushed for games to “promote gender equality” and address “socio-cultural stereotypes,” as stated by Assistant-Director General Gabriela Ramos.

Further concerns include UNESCO’s designation of Jewish holy sites as “Palestinian World Heritage” sites and its use of language labeling Palestine as “occupied” by Israel, while not condemning Hamas. The White House also noted China’s influence, with Beijing as UNESCO’s second-largest funder and Chinese nationals in key roles, advancing standards favorable to China’s interests.

This marks the U.S.’s second exit from UNESCO, following withdrawals in 1983 and 2017, with a brief rejoining in 2023 under President Biden.