In a surprising turn of events, just a day after the United States announced its decision to withdraw once again from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), China has voiced strong disapproval.
The move ends both US funding and participation in the agency, coming only two years after the Biden administration rejoined the organization. The US had previously pulled out during former President Donald Trump’s first term, leading to a five-year absence.
Beijing didn’t hold back in its response. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun criticized the US decision, stating it weakens international cooperation and damages global responsibility.
“We’ve taken note that UNESCO and several countries have expressed regret over the US withdrawal,” Guo said. “This marks the third time the US has exited UNESCO, and it’s no secret that the country has been behind on its membership payments. This is not the behavior of a responsible major power.”
Meanwhile, the White House explained the move was driven by concerns similar to those raised in 2018. Officials cited what they described as UNESCO’s anti-Israel bias, saying continued US involvement no longer aligns with national interests.
