UNESCO embraces United States as it rejoins after five-year hiatus

In a significant development for international cultural, educational, and scientific cooperation, the United States has been reinstated as a member of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) following a majority vote by the organization's 193 member states on June 30. The decision marks the country's return to the agency after a five-year absence.

The decision to rejoin comes after the U.S. announced its intention earlier this month, signaling a departure from the policies of the previous administration.

The withdrawal of the United States from UNESCO occurred during the presidency of Donald Trump, with the country citing concerns about the organization's alleged anti-Israel bias and management issues. At the time, the U.S. and Israel halted their financial contributions to UNESCO after it voted to include Palestine as a member state in 2011.

The recent decision to rejoin UNESCO stems from the US's apprehensions about China's growing influence within the agency, particularly regarding the establishment of global standards for artificial intelligence and technology education. U.S. officials expressed concerns that the country's absence allowed China to fill the void and shape the direction of UNESCO policymaking unopposed.

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay expressed her satisfaction with the US's return. 

To demonstrate its commitment to the organization, the Biden administration has already requested $150mn in the 2024 budget to cover UNESCO dues and arrears. The plan outlines similar budget requests in the subsequent years until the accumulated debt of $619mn is fully repaid. This contribution will make up a significant portion of UNESCO's annual operating budget, which currently stands at $534mn.

Before its departure, the United States accounted for 22% of UNESCO's overall funding. Its return will undoubtedly provide a boost to the agency's financial resources, allowing it to strengthen its efforts in preserving cultural heritage, promoting education, and advancing scientific research on a global scale.

The re-engagement of the United States with UNESCO sends a positive message of renewed commitment to international cooperation and the promotion of cultural diversity, education, and scientific progress.