In a recent move by the White House, President Trump has withdrawn the United States from several international organizations that focus on cultural heritage preservation and arts policy. Among the 66 organizations affected by this decision are the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM) and the International Federation of Arts Councils and Culture Agencies (IFACCA).
IFACCA, based in Australia, works closely with government arts agencies and conducts research on cultural policy issues such as arts funding and cultural labor. The organization is known for hosting the World Summit on Arts and Culture, which brings together artists and industry leaders to discuss important topics like artificial intelligence and fair working conditions. Despite the US government’s decision to withdraw, the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) remains a member of IFACCA.
Established in 1959, ICCROM focuses on disaster risk management and conservation of historic sites, monuments, and museum collections. The organization works to train experts, conduct research, and promote international cooperation on preservation efforts. In a statement, ICCROM expressed concern over the US withdrawal, noting that it will impact the organization’s ability to fulfill its mandate.
Hermann Parzinger, executive president of Europa Nostra, a pan-European cultural heritage group, criticized the move, particularly in light of the US’s previous withdrawal from UNESCO. Parzinger emphasized the importance of culture and heritage in promoting peace, mutual respect, and innovation on a global scale.
The White House’s decision to withdraw from these international organizations raises concerns about the US’s commitment to global cooperation on urgent issues. With entities like the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change also on the list of withdrawals, advocates and officials warn of potential consequences for human rights and environmental efforts worldwide.
This move comes at a time when the US is facing criticism for its actions in Venezuela and threats to seize Greenland from Denmark. The decision to distance the US from international cooperation efforts could have far-reaching implications for global initiatives aimed at addressing pressing challenges like climate change and cultural preservation.
