What Does the U.S. Exit From UNESCO Mean for Travelers?

On July 22, the US State Department announced that it would withdraw from UNESCO.

The UN educational, scientific and cultural organization – after World War II, has been created with the goal of “promoting peace through its cooperative efforts”, since which has since been created an invaluable database of cultural and natural signs, many of which are among the world’s most famous travel destinations.

Now, America’s involvement in financing, selection and support of these efforts is about to end. Foreign Secretary Timi Bruce said the decision to withdraw has been decided because continuous participation is “not in the national interest of the United States.”

“UNESCO works to advance discriminatory social and cultural reasons, and the UN sustained sustainable development goals, a globalist, the ideological agenda, with the ideological agenda for international development in differences with America’s first foreign policy,” Bruce said in a official statement.

This is not the first time that the United States has separated from the organization. The Trump administration was returning in 2018, and the country only joined 2023 under the former president Joe Biden. Earlier, US funding was stopped in 2011 under former President Barack Obama and earlier in 1984, once with former President Ronald Reagan, once returned the entire country.

Although this is not the latest departure without an example, the effects of waves can still have for travelers. Here’s what to know:

When will the United States formally leave UNESCO?

The withdrawal will be implemented on December 31, 2026. Until then, the United States is a complete part of the organization.

What does UNESCO attend?

UNESCO includes 194 member states (nations), everyone cooperates economically and appoints national representatives. The organization collectively sets global standards and guides the steps focused on history, culture, education and environment protection.

How many sites are UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the United States?

The United States has 26 World Heritage Sites and 28 biosfire reserves. In the world, there are 1,248 sites in 170 countries. US sites include places such as Yosmite National Park, Yellow Stone National Park, and Everglords, as well as places such as Freedom Hall in Philadelphia, San Antonio Missions in Texas, and the statue of Liberty.

How will this affect UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites traveling?

As one of the largest member countries of the organization, the United States provided significant financial support for UNESCO projects, including the World Heritage Sites. In response to the withdrawal announcement, UNESCO Director General Audrey Ezole said he was “deeply regretted” over the Trump administration’s decision to withdraw, but confirmed the organization’s commitment to the mission.

“However, sadly, the announcement was expected, and UNESCO has prepared for it,” said Ezole. According to Ezolle, although the organization relied heavily on funds from the United States, it has “made great structural reforms and has made our funding sources diverse.”

Although there may still be some changes, UNESCO does not expect to reduce staff or operations at the moment, which means that for now, you can continue to plan the UNESCO sites as usual.

As far as the Americans have something to worry about visiting UNESCO sites, Ezolle said open door policy will continue for everyone. “UNESCO aims to welcome all nations of the world, and is the United States and will always be happy.”