The US first lady raised the flag at UNESCO in Paris to mark Washington’s official re-entry.
| UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) | |
| Established | November 16, 1945 |
| Headquarters | Paris, France |
| Membership | 195 member states and 10 associate members |
| Mandate | International cooperation in education, research, culture, and communication is encouraged. |
| Objectives | Providing a great education that is inclusive and equal for allCultural heritage protectionScientific research and collaboration are being advanced.Advancing free expressionPromoting intercultural communication |
| Notable Programs and Activities | World Heritage Programme: identifies and protects places of exceptional universal importance.Education for All Programme: Ensuring comprehensive and equitable access to high-quality education for all.Promoting sustainable water management and cooperation through the International Hydrological ProgrammeMan and the Biosphere Programme: Promoting Sustainable Development and Natural Resource ConservationThe Intangible Cultural Heritage Programme protects and promotes intangible cultural heritage. |
A brief recap
- Withdrawal of the United States and Israel: The United States and Israel opted to leave UNESCO in December.
- Engagement’s historical trajectory: The judgements should be viewed in the perspective of a larger historical background.
Causes of Withdrawal
- Anti-Semitic resolutions: The United States and Israel cited a number of resolutions that they saw as biassed towards Israel.
- Disdain for multilateralism and the ‘America First’ policy: The United States exhibited a lack of interest in multilateral organisations while prioritising its own interests.
- The decision was based on rising arrears, the need for reform, and perceived anti-Israel prejudice.
- Lack of interest in repaying UNESCO debts: The Trump administration saw little reason to repay UNESCO debts acquired since the Obama administration suspended contributions.
Consequences of the withdrawal
- Impact on UNESCO’s day-to-day operations: The absence of the United States and Israel hampered the organization’s work.
- Palestinians face only minor consequences: The Palestinian Authority’s diplomatic win was of little political or economic value to Palestinians living under occupation.
Why is the United States rejoining?
- China’s influence must be counterbalanced: The United States seeks to challenge China’s growing influence in defining global policies on artificial intelligence and technological education.
- Protect and advance US interests: Reunification enables the United States to protect and advance its interests in cultural heritage preservation, climate change measures, and girls’ education.
- Reforms and diplomatic initiatives: The United States’ decision to rejoin was influenced by UNESCO’s management reforms and efforts to address concerns.
- The decision to rejoin UNESCO has won bipartisan support in the United States, ensuring long-term commitment regardless of future political changes.
- Financial considerations and commitment: The United States intends to complete UNESCO’s financial commitments, including payment of dues and arrears, demonstrating a commitment to supporting critical activities within the organisation.
@the end
The United States’ decision to rejoin UNESCO reflects a deliberate effort to offset China’s influence, safeguard and promote American interests, and participate in worldwide efforts for cultural preservation, climate change mitigation, and education.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/culture-shift-the-hindu-editorial-on-the-uss-unesco-re-entry/article66972146.ece