Episode 479: Global Exit Strategy: The U.S. and UNESCO

Today, Martha, Les, Morgan, and Matt discuss the Trump administration’s announcement that the U.S. will withdraw from UNESCO by the end of 2026. This marks the third such exit in recent history—first under President Reagan in 1984, again under Trump’s first administration, and now once more over concerns of anti-Israel bias and support for “divisive" causes. 

The decision raises broader questions: Are global institutions like UNESCO advancing U.S. interests—or have they become vehicles for adversarial influence? Is complete withdrawal the best strategy, or is there a more effective way to protect American values while staying at the table?

Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.

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