The German government has expressed disappointment regarding the United States’ decision to withdraw from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). A spokesperson for the German Foreign Office, responding to inquiries from the dts news agency in Berlin on Wednesday, stated that the decision was deeply regretted, although not entirely unexpected.
The spokesperson emphasized UNESCO’s critical and ongoing role as the central global forum for education, science, culture and communication. They highlighted the organization’s focus on safeguarding shared cultural and natural heritage, promoting universal education, fostering understanding and tolerance – essentially, upholding universal values. There is a concern that the West should not cede this vital space.
Germany remains convinced of the necessity for robust international systems and engagement with international organizations to effectively address pressing global challenges affecting all nations. While acknowledging the need for reform within UNESCO, the spokesperson conceded that improvements were required to enhance the organization’s functionality, effectiveness and financial stability. Germany intends to continue actively working towards these reforms.
The U.S. State Department announced the impending withdrawal, effective at the end of next year, in Washington the previous day. This marks a return to a pattern previously seen when the U.S. exited UNESCO at the close of 2018 during the administration of former President Donald Trump, before rejoining the organization just two years ago.