Why in the News?

The United States has withdrawn from the UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) for the third time citing its “anti-Israel bias”.

About UNESCO:

• Established: 1945, after World War II
• Headquarters: Paris, France
• Parent Body: United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
• Membership: 194 member states and 12 associate members; India is a member since 1946.
• Mission: Promotes peace, poverty eradication, sustainable development, and cultural diversity through global cooperation

Key Functions:

• Core Areas of Work:
  • Education: Ensures inclusive and quality learning for all
  • Natural Sciences: Fosters international scientific collaboration
  • Social and Human Sciences: Promotes ethics, social justice, and human rights
  • Culture: Preserves heritage and promotes creative diversity
  • Communication & Information: Defends freedom of expression and universal access to knowledge
• Functions:
  • Serves as a platform for idea-sharing and research
  • Facilitates cooperation among governments, academia, and civil society
  • Offers technical support and policy guidance
  • Maintains World Heritage Site listings
  • Frames global conventions and recommendations

Key Initiatives and Contributions:

• World Heritage Program: Protects sites of cultural and natural value
• Major Conventions:
  • Convention on Cultural and Natural Heritage
  • Convention on Intangible Cultural Heritage
  • Convention on Cultural Diversity
  • Convention against Discrimination in Education
• Flagship Reports:
  • Global Education Monitoring Report
  • United Nations World Water Development Report
  • World Trends in Freedom of Expression and Media Development
• UNESCO and Sustainable Development Goals: Supports SDGs with focus on education, gender equality, environment, and peace

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