UNESCO has announced that the United States is preparing to rejoin the organization starting in July. The decision to withdraw from the U.N. cultural agency was made in December 2018 during President Donald Trump’s administration, citing concerns related to anti-Israel bias and mismanagement.
Renowned for its designation of World Heritage Sites like Syria’s ancient city of Palmyra and the Grand Canyon National Park, UNESCO plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting cultural and natural treasures. The proposed plan for rejoining will be presented to the General Conference of UNESCO Member States, where it will require approval. Some member states have called for an extraordinary session to promptly decide on the matter.
Previously, the United States contributed one-fifth of the agency’s funding. However, under the administration of President Barack Obama, payments were halted in 2011 when Palestine became a full member, as U.S. law prohibits funding in such cases. The United States left UNESCO with an outstanding debt of $542 million.
