UNESCO

UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) is a specialized agency of the United Nations aimed at promoting world peace and security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. It has 193 member states and 11 associate members, as well as partners in the non-governmental, intergovernmental, and private sector.

History

UNESCO was established on 16 November 1945 as a result of the United Nations Conference on Education, Science, and Culture held in London in 1945. The organization's constitution was ratified on 4 November 1946 by twenty countries.

Objectives and Activities

UNESCO's main objectives include attaining quality education for all, ensuring sustainable development through scientific, technical and innovative cooperation, protecting cultural heritage and fostering cultural diversity, promoting freedom of expression, media development and access to information.

Structure

UNESCO's governing bodies are the General Conference, the Executive Board, and the Secretariat. The General Conference, which meets every two years, sets the organization's programmes and the budget. The Executive Board oversees the execution of the programme, while the Secretariat, headed by the Director-General, implements the decisions of the two bodies.

Criticism and Controversies

UNESCO has faced criticism for perceived inefficiency, politicization, and Western bias. It has also been accused of overstepping its mandate, particularly in relation to its recognition of cultural sites in disputed territories.

See Also

• List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists
• UNESCO Biosphere Reserves
• UNESCO Creative Cities Network

References

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External Links

• Official UNESCO Website

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