Washington's third withdrawal from the UN agency could reshape project funding in Africa and global governance dynamics.

HIGHLIGHTS

● U.S. withdrawal from UNESCO takes effect at the end of 2026, citing misaligned diplomatic interests and Palestine’s membership.
● African educational and cultural projects face uncertainty, with some American-backed initiatives at risk of being affected.
● China is poised to expand its influence, as the U.S. absence weakens its hand in tech and AI governance.

On Tuesday, July 22, 2025, the United States formally notified its withdrawal from the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The decision, effective at the end of 2026, marks Washington’s third departure from the agency, following exits in 1984 and 2017.

The White House communiqué framed the move as part of a broader diplomatic realignment, stating that continued UNESCO participation is "not in the national interest of the United States." It cited the 2011 admission of Palestine as a full member—a decision it deemed "hostile to Israel" and "extremely problematic"—as a key factor in its disengagement.

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay expressed regret but emphasized the agency's preparedness. “As regrettable as it is, this announcement was expected, and UNESCO has prepared for it. [...] UNESCO will continue to carry out its missions, despite resources that will inevitably be reduced,” she said.

While the U.S. accounts for only 8% of UNESCO’s budget—compared to 40% contributions for other UN bodies—its departure is not without consequence. Since 2018, voluntary funding from states and private actors has doubled, giving the agency more financial flexibility. Yet, on-the-ground programs, particularly across Africa, could be hit hardest.

The U.S. has long supported African initiatives in girls’ literacy, heritage preservation, biosphere conservation, and digital education and teacher training. Some of these rely on American foundations and corporations whose funding may now be redirected or scaled back.

Beyond budget cuts, the geopolitical impact is significant. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, warned the decision would erode U.S. influence in global standard-setting, especially in technology and artificial intelligence. “The US withdrawal from UNESCO paves the way for China to promote global standards in technology and AI, beneficial for Chinese companies and products. Not having a seat at the table will come at a cost to American businesses and people,” she cautioned.

According to UNESCO data, the United States was still the agency’s largest donor in early 2025, with $156.69 million contributed. China, the second-largest funder, gave $132.11 million, further consolidating its growing role in multilateral governance.

This article was initially published in French by Charlène N’dimon

Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho