U.S. President Donald Trump and China's President Xi Jinping at a past engagement. China, led by President Xi's administration, has strongly criticized Trump's decision to pull the U.S. out of UNESCO, calling it irresponsible and a neglect of a major global power's duties. Credit: REUTERS
China condemns U.S. UNESCO exit. China expresses strong criticism of President Donald Trump’s decision. He decided to withdraw the United States from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization UNESCO. Beijing labeled the move as an irresponsible act. This decision is set to be effective on December 31, 2026. It represents a failure of a major global power to uphold its commitments.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun, addressing a press briefing on Wednesday, July 23, firmly endorsed UNESCO’s mission. “This is not what a major country should do,” Guo asserted, highlighting that this marks the third time the U.S. has left the organization and noting its long-standing arrears in payments.
The Trump administration cited perceived pro-Palestinian and pro-Chinese biases. It also mentioned objections to “woke” diversity, equity, and inclusion policies as reasons for its withdrawal. This decision aligns with the administration’s “America First” foreign policy, which prioritizes national interests over multilateral engagements.
Guo Jiakun highlighted UNESCO’s role in fostering international cooperation in education, science, and culture. He emphasized its role in promoting peace and development. It was the 80th anniversary of the United Nations. He urged all nations to “reaffirm their commitment to multilateral.” He called for active support of the UN-centered international system.
The U.S. had rejoined UNESCO under the subsequent Biden administration. This was an effort to counterbalance China’s growing influence within the cultural body. However, the Trump administration later reversed course again.
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay conveyed deep regret over the U.S. pullout, emphasizing that the decision “contradicts the fundamental principles of multiculturalism.” While UNESCO had prepared for the anticipated U.S. announcement by diversifying its funding, Azoulay disputed the rationale behind the withdrawal. She affirmed that “UNESCO today constitutes a rare forum for consensus on concrete and action-oriented multilateral.” She also rejected claims of bias. This is particularly notable in light of the organization’s efforts in Holocaust education and combating antisemitism.
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