UNESCO's Leadership Race Amidst U.S. Withdrawal: Key Contenders Emerge

As UNESCO gears up to choose its new leader on Monday, the organization faces significant changes following the United States' second withdrawal under President Donald Trump. Outgoing Chief Audrey Azoulay has diversified funding, but the loss of 8% of UNESCO's budget, currently sourced from the U.S., looms large for the cultural and educational agency.

The Trump administration criticized UNESCO for supporting 'woke, divisive cultural and social causes,' a claim that echoes his first term's actions only to be reversed by Joe Biden. Founded post-World War Two, UNESCO plays a crucial role in designating and safeguarding world heritage sites, including the Galapagos Islands and the Timbuktu tombs.

The race for leadership sees former Egyptian tourism minister Khaled El-Enany emerge as the favorite against Édouard Firmin Matoko of the Republic of Congo. El-Enany, leveraging Egypt's rich history, leads a strong campaign with international alliances. The selection, involving 58-member state votes, will be finalized by the general assembly in November.

(With inputs from agencies.)