The U.S. Department of State, in a letter addressed to Director-General Audrey Azoulay, expressed appreciation for UNESCO’s efforts in addressing emerging challenges, modernizing its management practices, and reducing political tensions.
The U.S. Department of State, in a letter addressed to Director-General Audrey Azoulay, expressed appreciation for UNESCO’s efforts in addressing emerging challenges, modernizing its management practices, and reducing political tensions.
The United States officially announced its decision to rejoin the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization in July.
The announcement was made during a gathering of representatives from UNESCO’s 193 member states.
The U.S. Department of State, in a letter addressed to Director-General Audrey Azoulay, expressed appreciation for UNESCO’s efforts in addressing emerging challenges, modernizing its management practices, and reducing political tensions.
“This is a strong act of confidence, in UNESCO and in multilateralism. Not only in the centrality of the Organization’s mandate – culture, education, science, information – but also in the way this mandate is being implemented today,” said Azoulay in a statement.
In a CBS News report, the Biden administration also expressed its intention to collaborate with Congress to allocate $10 million in private voluntary funding to support various UNESCO programs.
The funding will be allocated for crucial initiatives, including Holocaust education, journalist safety, the preservation of cultural heritage in Ukraine, and science, technology, engineering, and math education in Africa.
In addition to the $10 million pledge, the US will provide its contribution for the remainder of 2023.
The administration also plans to request a congressional appropriation of $150 million in 2024. This funding will not only cover the US’ financial obligations but will also contribute towards resolving the country’s arrears, estimated to be approximately $600 million.
The administration said it intends to continue seeking appropriations until the U.S. arrears are fully resolved.
Since assuming the position of director-general in November 2017, Azoulay played a vital role in mediating discussions, leading to reduced political tensions and consensus on sensitive topics, including the Middle East.
Under her leadership, UNESCO launched several new initiatives to tackle contemporary challenges, such as the ethical considerations surrounding artificial intelligence and the protection of the world’s oceans.
The organization also embarked on significant field campaigns, notably the reconstruction of the historic city of Mosul in Iraq, which has served to reconnect UNESCO with its historical aspirations.
Additionally, administrative reforms implemented since 2018 have enhanced UNESCO’s efficiency and financial stability.
The decision for the US to rejoin UNESCO became possible following an agreement reached by Congress in December 2022, authorizing financial contributions to the organization.
The US suspended its contributions in 2011 due to domestic legislation before formally notifying UNESCO of its decision to withdraw in October 2017.
Before the US can rejoin UNESCO, the proposed financing plan must be presented to the General Conference of UNESCO Member States for their approval.
