It is expected that all member states of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), totaling 193 nations, will support the return of the United States to the organization after nearly five years since President Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from UNESCO, accusing it of bias against Israel and mismanagement. The organization, headquartered in Paris, experienced turmoil following the U.S. withdrawal, as it previously accounted for one-fifth of the organization's funding. UNESCO was established after World War II to protect the shared cultural heritage of humanity.
The U.S. Department of State stated in a letter dated June 8 that it wishes to rejoin the organization as a full member in July and intends to pay retroactive dues amounting to $619 million in installments over several years. Member states will make their decision in a special meeting today, Thursday, and tomorrow, Friday. The letter, which was reviewed by Reuters, noted: "Since our withdrawal from UNESCO in 2018, we have observed efforts by UNESCO to implement major administrative reforms, in addition to its focus on reducing politicized debates, particularly regarding Middle Eastern issues." Israel also withdrew from the organization following Washington's exit. UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay stated that at this stage, there are no negotiations for Israel's return.
