On July 22, US State Department announced UNESCO,
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization – With the goal of “promoting peace through its cooperative efforts” after World War II – with the goal of creating an invaluable database of cultural and natural sites, many of which are among the most reputed travel sites in the world.
Now, the US participation in the financing, selection and support of these efforts is going to end. State Secretary Tammy Bruce Said that it was decided to withdraw Because continuous participation is “not in the national interest of the United States.”
“UNESCO works to carry forward the divisive social and cultural reasons and focuses an external focus on the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations, a global, ideological agenda for international development with our first foreign policy,” Bruce said in an official statement.
This is not the first time the US has participated with the organization. The Trump administration returned to the 2018, and the country re -joined the former President Joe Biden in 2023. Earlier, the US funding stayed under former President Barack Obama in 2011 and the country retreated once in 1984 under former President Ronald Reagan.
Although it is not without the latest departure example, it can still cause wave effects for travelers. What do you know here:
When will the US officially leave UNESCO?
The return will be effective on 31 December 2026. Till then, the US remains a full -fledged member of the organization.
What does participation in UNESCO do?
UNESCO includes 194 member state (Nation), every economically contributes and appoints national representatives. The organization collectively determines global standards and takes the initiative focused on the protection of history, culture, education and environment.
How many UNESCO World Heritage Sites are in America?
there are 26 World Heritage Site And 28 biosphere reserves in the US. In the world, there are 1,248 sites in 170 countriesAmerican sites include the Yosemite National Park, Yelostone National Park, and Everglades, as well as Independence Hall in Philadelphia, San Antonio Mission in Texas and Statue of Liberty.
How will it affect UNESCO World Heritage Sites?
As one of the largest member states of the organization, the US supplied significant funds for UNESCO projects including World Heritage Sites. In response to the return announcement, UNESCO Director General Audrey Azole said he “”Deep regrets“The decision to withdraw the Trump administration, but confirmed the organization’s commitment to his mission.
“Although regrettable, the announcement was estimated, and UNESCO has prepared for it,” Azole said. While the organization trusted a lot on funding from the US, it has since started “major structural reforms and diversified our funding sources,” according to Azoule.
Although some changes may still occur, UNESCO does not estimate to reduce employees or operations at this time, meaning that for now, you can continue to plan to travel to UNESCO sites as usual.
When they visit UNESCO sites, Americans have nothing to worry about, Azole said an open door policy will continue for all. “UNESCO aims to welcome all countries of the world, and the United States is and will always be welcome.”
