Introduction
The recent announcement by the United States on July 22, 2023, to withdraw from UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) by December 31, 2026, echoes a historical chapter from 1984 when Ronald Reagan’s administration left the organization. This article explores the consequences of this withdrawal, who bears the responsibility for preserving cultural heritage, and Mexico’s muted response in this diplomatic dispute, given that the first UNESCO director-general was a distinguished Mexican.
Historical Context: The Reagan Administration’s Withdrawal
In 1984, the United States under Ronald Reagan withdrew from UNESCO due to concerns outlined in the McBride Report, authored by Irish Nobel Peace Prize laureate Sean MacBride. The report critiqued the international media landscape, advocating for a New World Information and Communication Order (NWICO). It emphasized the importance of equitable information access, balanced information flows between North and South, and the need for developing countries to establish their own media systems and news agencies. The McBride Report anticipated current digital platform issues, such as media concentration, information manipulation, and the necessity for democratic regulation of technologies.
Trump Administration’s Rationale for Withdrawal
The Trump administration cited UNESCO’s pro-Palestinian bias and critical stance towards Israel as reasons for withdrawal, aligning with its nationalist “America First” vision rather than a perceived globalist and ideological agenda. Although the US contributes only 8% of UNESCO’s budget ($117 million annually out of a total $534 million), its departure still impacts global and local UNESCO programs.
Impact on Mexico
Mexico, home to 36 UNESCO World Heritage Sites (the highest number in the Americas and sixth globally), faces potential consequences from the US withdrawal. These include reduced technical assistance and conservation project funding for restoration, thematic interpretation, and disaster risk reduction related to natural hazards.
Mexico’s Silence in the Dispute
Despite the US being a crucial funding source, Mexican authorities have not publicly expressed concern or assessed risks associated with the 8% budget cut affecting cultural and educational initiatives. This silence is surprising, especially as the US has also reduced support for other UN agencies like FAO, WHO, and ILO.
UNESCO’s Role in Global Standards
UNESCO sets global standards for AI, science, and education. Its influence seems to wane as it promotes ethical AI principles through its 2021 Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence. This recommendation emphasizes human rights respect, equity, non-discrimination, diversity, inclusion, and sustainability. It advocates for auditable, transparent, and explainable AI systems prioritizing human well-being over technological efficiency.
UNESCO’s Limited Impact
UNESCO has proposed regulating AI Generative use in schools, setting age limits, privacy guidelines, and data management to promote responsible digital education. However, its influence remains limited. It has also highlighted the environmental impact of AI’s exponential growth—increased energy, water consumption, and demand for critical minerals.
Implications of US Withdrawal
With diminished economic and political support from the US, UNESCO’s capacity to fund and oversee projects in Mexico weakens. This could lead to reduced technical and operational funding for archaeological and cultural site conservation, potential discontinuation of educational, media, or heritage strengthening projects, and the urgent need for public dialogue to assess impacts and explore alternatives due to the absence of a key player like the US.
Mexico’s Opportunity and Challenge
Mexico now faces a dilemma: supporting UNESCO activities and programs while taking leadership in education, science, culture—areas sorely needed—yet confronting the US for its withdrawal from the organization. Mexico’s secretaries of foreign affairs, science, education, culture, and tourism must act swiftly to lead the protection of cultural, educational, scientific, and media heritage amidst the US departure.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the historical context of the US withdrawal from UNESCO? The Reagan administration withdrew in 1984 due to concerns outlined in the McBride Report, which critiqued international media landscapes and advocated for a New World Information and Communication Order (NWICO).
- Why is Mexico’s silence concerning the US withdrawal notable? Despite being a crucial funding source, Mexican authorities have not publicly expressed concern or assessed risks associated with the 8% budget cut affecting cultural and educational initiatives.
- What role does UNESCO play in setting global standards? UNESCO establishes global standards for AI, science, and education. Its 2021 Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence promotes ethical AI principles, prioritizing human well-being over technological efficiency.
- What are the potential consequences of the US withdrawal from UNESCO for Mexico? Reduced technical assistance and conservation project funding for archaeological and cultural sites, potential discontinuation of educational, media, or heritage strengthening projects, and the urgent need for public dialogue to assess impacts.
