What is UNESCO?

UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) is a specialized UN agency aiming to promote world peace and security through international cooperation in education, arts, sciences, and culture.

Which prominent countries have withdrawn from UNESCO?

The United States and Israel are two notable countries that have withdrawn multiple times, citing various reasons including perceived anti-Israel bias and organizational inefficiencies.

What are common reasons for a country to withdraw from UNESCO?

Reasons often include political disputes, such as perceived bias in resolutions (e.g., concerning Jerusalem), budgetary concerns, or disagreements with the organization's policies and effectiveness.

What are the implications of a country's withdrawal for UNESCO?

Withdrawals can lead to significant financial shortfalls, diminish diplomatic influence, and impact program funding, particularly for initiatives in education, science, and cultural preservation.

Can a country rejoin UNESCO after withdrawal?

Yes, countries can rejoin. The United States, for example, has withdrawn and rejoined UNESCO on multiple occasions, most recently rejoining in July 2023.