Israel has decided to withdraw it name as a member of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) along with United States. The reason behind the decision is criticism of Israel’s occupation of East Jerusalem and its decision to grant full membership to Palestine in 2011.
Israel has been member of UNESCO since 1949. Both US and Israel had filled a withdraw notice in October, 2017. The announcement of separation was made by UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay on Friday (29-12-2017).
About UNESCO:
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is world organization well known for its work to preserve heritage, including maintaining a list of World Heritage sites, and programmes to promote education in developing countries.
UNESCO was established in 16 November 1945. Its headquarter is in Place de Fontenoy, Paris, France. Current Director general of UNESCO is Audrey Azoulay. The organization has 195 members and ten associate members.
The main functions of UNESCO are to contribute to peace and security by promoting international collaboration. Below are some main duties and responsibilites of UNESCO:
To contribute to the building of peace, the eradication of poverty, sustainable development and intercultural dialogue through education, the sciences, culture, communication and information.
