Trump Pulling US From 'Woke' UNESCO
Newsweek3 days
US Withdraws from UNESCO Again Over Anti-Israel Bias Claims
Above: U.S. President Donald Trump outside the West Wing of the White House on July 16, 2025. Image copyright: Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Trump narrative
UNESCO has become a vehicle for woke ideology and anti-American sentiment that doesn't serve national interests. The organization pushes divisive social justice causes, gives China too much influence and consistently shows bias against Israel while promoting Palestinian narratives. America shouldn't fund an organization that works against its values and those of its allies.
Anti-Trump narrative
Withdrawing from UNESCO abandons American leadership on the global stage and creates a vacuum that competitors like China will fill. The organization undertakes important work in protecting world heritage sites and promoting education, science and culture worldwide. This isolationist approach undermines multilateral cooperation and damages relationships with allies.
Progressive narrative
The United States' withdrawal from UNESCO will not weaken global commitment to the organization's mission. Nations and advocates worldwide remain united in promoting education, culture and science. Leadership in this global effort extends beyond any one country. The collective resolve of UNESCO's members ensures that progress continues, sustaining cooperation and support for the values that underpin international peace and development.