Since 1945, our mission has been to build international peace through cooperation, which is the only way to build bonds between nations.
This is why, as a laboratory of ideas, UNESCO seeks to share its comprehensive expertise in the fields of education, science and culture.
Priority Africa
For peace and sustainable development in Africa
UNESCO's global priorities are Africa and gender equality. As such, UNESCO and its partners are paying particular attention to 54 African countries through a stronger and better targeted strategy.
Ocean science
Supporting global ocean services
UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) guides other United Nations bodies working to understand and improve the management of our oceans, coasts and marine ecosystems.
Gender equality
Combating gender disparities
UNESCO considers that all forms of gender-based discrimination are human rights violations and a significant obstacle to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
Our message is clear: women and men must enjoy equal opportunities, choices, capabilities, power and knowledge as equal citizens.
A human right for all
Education transforms lives
UNESCO acts as a global and regional leader in education, works to strengthen education systems around the world and addresses contemporary global challenges through education with gender equality as a fundamental principle. Its action focuses on the development of quality education from preschool to higher education and beyond.
Natural Sciences
Science for a sustainable future
Creating knowledge through science allows us to find solutions to today's economic, social and environmental challenges, while providing tools for sustainable development and greener societies. Knowing that no country can achieve sustainable development alone, international scientific cooperation contributes not only to scientific knowledge but also to the construction of peace.
Social and human sciences
Just, inclusive, resilient and democratic societies
In our increasingly diverse societies, UNESCO fulfills its humanist mission every day, which is to support people with a view to better understanding each other and working together to achieve lasting peace. UNESCO also helps enable people to create and use knowledge to build just, inclusive, resilient and democratic societies.