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Posted by
Olog-hai
on Thu Oct 12 13:29:27 2017
Jerusalem Post
US withdraws from UNESCO, citing 'anti-Israel bias'By Michael Wilner
October 12, 2017 17:16The Trump administration announced on Thursday that the US will withdraw from UNESCO, the UN's educational, scientific and cultural body.
The Paris-based body is known for designating World Heritage sites like the ancient city of Palmyra in Syria and Grand Canyon National Park, but it has struggled for relevance as it becomes increasingly hobbled by regional rivalries and a lack of money.
A fight over who will next run the organization highlighted the Trump administration's concerns: one leading candidate, Qatar’s Hamad bin Abdulaziz al-Kawari, has been openly accused of antisemitism by Jewish and Israeli groups.
"This decision was not taken lightly, and reflects US concerns with mounting arrears at UNESCO, the need for fundamental reform in the organization, and continuing anti-Israel bias at UNESCO," the State Department said.
"The United States indicated to the Director General its desire to remain engaged with UNESCO as a non-member observer state in order to contribute U.S. views, perspectives and expertise on some of the important issues undertaken by the organization, including the protection of world heritage, advocating for press freedoms, and promoting scientific collaboration and education."
"I wish to express profound regret at the decision of the United States of America to withdraw from UNESCO," said Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO, in response to the US decision. "Universality is critical to UNESCO’s mission to strengthen international peace and security in the face of hatred and violence, to defend human rights and dignity."
Bokova's statement did not address Israel or antisemitism — part of the reason for the American exit from the organization.
In recent months, UNESCO members have pushed the body to recognize Jerusalem as a holy site exclusive to Muslims, without recognizing its Jewish roots.
Trump administration officials such as Nikki Haley, its UN ambassador, have warned for weeks that pulling out would be a possibility if the body fails to reform.
The United States' withdrawal will take effect on the last day of the year.
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