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The United States has withdrawn from the UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) for the third time citing its “anti-Israel bias”.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
| [UPSC 2023] Consider the following properties included in the World Heritage List released by UNESCO:
1. Shantiniketan 2. Rani-ki-Vav 3. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas 4. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodhgaya How many of the above properties were included in 2023? Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two* (c) Only three (d) All four |
