The Biden administration's decision to rejoin the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has sparked debate. While the administration argues this move is crucial to counter China's growing influence within the organization and promote American interests on the global stage, critics see it as a reversal of Trump-era policy and a concession to international pressure.
The State Department emphasizes the importance of US engagement in global affairs, citing UNESCO's impact on education, cultural heritage preservation, journalist protection, emerging technology best practices, and Holocaust education. They believe that active participation is essential to protect and advance US interests.
However, critics like Hugh Dugan, former senior director for International Organization Affairs at the National Security Council, view this decision as a sign of the administration's desire for global acceptance, even without significant changes within UNESCO. Anne Bayefsky, president of Human Rights Voices, argues that rejoining UNESCO contradicts long-standing Congressional policy and prioritizes appeasement over American interests, particularly concerning Israel.
UNESCO's headquarters in Paris.
The Biden administration plans to request $150 million from Congress for the 2024 fiscal year to fund UNESCO, with similar payments expected in the following years. This financial commitment has drawn criticism from those who question the value of contributing to an organization perceived as biased against US interests.
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay.
Since the US withdrawal, China has become a major donor to UNESCO. The US aims to regain influence, particularly in shaping guidelines for artificial intelligence and other technologies. Additionally, the US plans to provide $10 million for cultural preservation programs in Ukraine and Holocaust education.
Chinese Minister of Education Chen Baosheng at UNESCO headquarters.
Dugan criticizes the administration's approach, suggesting that it prioritizes popularity over pursuing national interests within international organizations. He believes the US should be more assertive in promoting its agenda, rather than conforming to the demands of other nations.
