Which among the following countries quit "UNESCO" in 2019?
- AOption (a)
USA & Russia
- BOption (b)
UAE & Libya
- COption (c)
Israel & USA
- DOption (d)
Israel & Iran
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Correct answer
Israel & USA
Why this answer is correct
The correct answer is Israel & USA.
Key Points
- In 2019, both Israel and the United States officially quit UNESCO.
- The decision to withdraw was primarily influenced by the perception that UNESCO exhibited anti-Israel bias.
- Both countries had announced their intention to leave in 2017, with the withdrawal becoming effective at the end of 2018, officially recognized in 2019.
- The departure marked a significant shift in their engagement with the UN cultural agency, impacting UNESCO's funding and geopolitical dynamics.
Additional Information
- UNESCO
- UNESCO stands for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
- It was established in 1945 with the aim of promoting peace and security through international collaboration in education, science, culture, and communication.
- UNESCO's activities include World Heritage Site designation, the promotion of cultural diversity, and the facilitation of scientific research.
- It operates globally, with 193 member states working together to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.
- Reasons for Withdrawal
- Both the USA and Israel cited a perceived anti-Israel bias in UNESCO's decisions and resolutions.
- One of the key points of contention was the designation of Hebron and the Tomb of the Patriarchs as Palestinian World Heritage sites, which both nations viewed as an affront to Jewish historical claims.
- Financial implications also played a role. The USA had previously suspended funding to UNESCO in 2011 after the organization admitted Palestine as a full member.
- Impact of the Withdrawal
- The withdrawal of the USA and Israel from UNESCO resulted in a significant reduction in funding, given that the USA was one of the largest contributors.
- This reduction in funding affected various UNESCO programs and initiatives worldwide.
- The departure also highlighted the broader geopolitical tensions influencing international organizations and their operations.






