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Q.10 Too little cash, too much politics, leaves UNESCO fighting for life.’ Discuss the statement in light of the US withdrawal and its accusation of the cultural body as being ‘anti-Israel bias’. 

Model Answer:

Introduction

The statement "Too little cash, too much politics, leave UNESCO fighting for life" reflects the significant challenges faced by UNESCO following the U.S. withdrawal and its accusations of anti-Israel bias. This situation highlights how financial instability and political tensions can undermine international organizations dedicated to cultural preservation and education.

Body

Reasons for Withdrawal
The U.S. cited multiple reasons for its decision to withdraw from UNESCO in 2017, primarily claiming ongoing anti-Israel bias within the organization. The State Department also pointed to financial arrears exceeding $500 million, indicating a need for fundamental reforms​. 

Impact on Funding
Following the U.S. exit, UNESCO faced severe financial repercussions, losing one of its largest contributors. This not only threatened existing projects but also jeopardized the organization's overall operational capacity. The lack of adequate funding compromised UNESCO’s ability to promote cultural diversity and protect heritage sites globally​. 

Accusations of Anti-Israel Bias


The allegations of anti-Israel bias stemmed from UNESCO's resolutions that Israel viewed as denying its historical ties to Jerusalem and other sites. These decisions were perceived by the U.S. and Israel as politically motivated actions that contradicted UNESCO's mission of fostering peace through cultural understanding​. 

Consequences of Political Bias
The politicization of UNESCO's mission has not only strained its relationships with key member states but also diminished its credibility. Critics argue that such biases dilute the organization's effectiveness in promoting global education, science, and culture, thus diminishing its ability to act impartially​. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the withdrawal of the U.S. from UNESCO, fueled by accusations of anti-Israel bias and compounded by financial constraints, has severely undermined the organization's stability and mission. For UNESCO to thrive, it must navigate these political tensions while ensuring sufficient financial support to fulfil its critical objectives.  

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