US informs UN officials of intent to withdraw from UNESCO

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Audrey Azoulay revealed that the US has notified its intent to withdraw once again from the UNESCO, just two years after rejoining the organization.

The US argued that its membership does not serve the country’s strategic priorities.

The decision, made by US President Donald Trump, was communicated to Azoulay who expressed regret but noted that the move was anticipated.

White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly claimed that UNESCO promotes cultural and social initiatives that contradict the policies endorsed by US voters in November.

She also accused the organization of using its executive board to advance an anti-Israel and anti-Jewish agenda, citing examples such as listing Jewish holy sites under Palestinian World Heritage and condemning Israel’s military actions against Hamas.

Additionally, Kelly alleged that UNESCO is biased in favor of China, enabling Beijing to influence global standards through the organization.

Under Article II of UNESCO’s constitution, the US withdrawal will take effect on 31 December 2026, with the US retaining full membership until that date.

Syria is home to several UNESCO-listed sites with significant Syriac Christian heritage, most notably the Ancient Villages of Northern Syria (2011), which include well-preserved Byzantine-era churches and monasteries that reflect early Christian rural life.

While not exclusively Syriac, these villages feature basilicas and pilgrim dwellings tied to Syriac Christianity’s transition from pagan Roman traditions.

Turkey also has nominated Syriac monasteries in Tur Abdin, such as 4th century Mor Gabriel Monastery and Deyrulzafaran Monastery, for UNESCO’s Tentative List, highlighting their historical and cultural importance.

Other sites, like Saint George Syriac Orthodox Church in Daramsuq (Damascus), are part of broader UNESCO-inscribed locations.

These sites underscore the Syriac community’s enduring legacy in the region.