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

On July 22, the U.S. Department of State announced it would withdraw from UNESCO. 

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization—founded after World War II with the goal of “promoting peace through its cooperative endeavors”—has since built an invaluable database of cultural and natural landmarks, many of which are among the world’s most iconic travel destinations.

Now, the U.S. involvement in funding, selecting, and supporting these endeavors is going to come to an end. Secretary of State Tammy Bruce said the decision to withdraw was made because continued involvement “is not in the national interest of the United States.”

“UNESCO works to advance divisive social and cultural causes and maintains an outsized focus on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, a globalist, ideological agenda for international development at odds with our America First foreign policy,” Bruce said in the official statement. 

This isn’t the first time the U.S. has parted ways with the organization. The Trump administration withdreaw in 2018, and the country only rejoined in 2023 under former President Joe Biden. Before that, U.S. funding halted under former President Barack Obama in 2011 and the country full withdrew once before, in 1984 under former President Ronald Reagan.

While this latest departure isn’t without precedent, it could still lead to ripple effects for travelers. Here’s what to know:

When will the U.S. officially leave UNESCO?

The withdrawal will take effect on Dec. 31, 2026. Until then, the U.S. remains a full participating member of the organization.

What does participation in UNESCO do?

UNESCO includes 194 member states (nations), each contributing financially and appointing national representatives. The organization collectively sets global standards and leads initiatives focused on the preservation of history, culture, education, and the environment.

How many UNESCO world heritage sites are in the U.S.? 

There are 26 World Heritage Sites and 28 biosphere reserves in the US. In the world, there are 1,248 sites across 170 countries. U.S. sites include landmarks like Yosemite National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Everglades, as well as Independence Hall in Philadelphia, San Antonio Missions in Texas, and the Statue of Liberty. 

How will this affect travel to UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

As one of the largest member states of the organization, the U.S. supplied significant funding for UNESCO projects, including the world heritage sites. In response to the withdrawal announcement, UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay said they “deeply regret” the Trump administration’s decision to withdraw, but affirmed the organization’s commitment to its mission.

“However regrettable, this announcement was anticipated, and UNESCO has prepared for it,” Azoulay said. While the organization used to heavily rely on funding from the U.S., it has since “undertaken major structural reforms and diversified our funding sources,” according to Azoulay. 

While there still might be some changes, UNESCO does not anticipate reducing staff or operations at this time, which means that for now, you can continue planning travel to UNESCO sites as usual.

As for whether or not Americans have anything to worry about when they visit UNESCO sites, Azoulay said that the policy of an open door for everyone will continue. “UNESCO’s purpose is to welcome all the nations of the world, and the United States of America is and will always be welcome.”