About Us > UNESCO in Brief
UNESCO: Inspiring Peace Through Education, Science & Culture
Empowering humanity through global cooperation since 1946
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was founded in London on 16 November 1946, in response to the devastation of World War II. Its mission? To build peace through international collaboration in education, science, culture, and communication. Today, UNESCO unites 193 Member States and 11 Associate Members in pursuit of a more sustainable, equitable world. Malaysia proudly joined UNESCO in 1958, contributing actively to its global vision.
Leadership Spotlight
Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO’s Director-General since 2017, leads with a bold vision of inclusivity, cultural dialogue, and access to knowledge. Under her leadership, UNESCO continues to serve as a forum for global ideas and a catalyst for progress, championing education, diversity, and human dignity worldwide.
Mission & Mandate
UNESCO believes peace begins in the minds of people. Guided by this vision, it works to:
- Ensure quality education for all, leaving no one behind.
- Promote science and innovation for sustainable development.
- Safeguard cultural heritage and celebrate the dignity of all cultures.
- Champion freedom of expression, a pillar of human rights and democracy.
- Encourage global citizenship and mutual understanding across borders.
UNESCO serves as a global platform for sharing ideas, setting standards, and fostering dialogue — all to shape a better, more united future.
Governance Structure
UNESCO’s operations are guided by three key bodies:
The General Conference
Held every two years, this gathering of all Member States sets the organization’s vision, budget, and priorities. Each country, regardless of size, has one vote — ensuring equal representation.
The Executive Board
Comprised of 58 elected members, the Board oversees the implementation of decisions, supports policy direction, and ensures balance among regions and cultures.
The Secretariat
Led by the Director-General, the Secretariat is the operational engine of UNESCO. With staff across 65 field offices, it turns strategy into action, supporting global programs and partnerships.
Why It Still Matters?
UNESCO’s founding principles remain deeply relevant today. In a world facing rising intolerance, cultural erasure, and misinformation, UNESCO stands firm in its mission to defend human dignity, celebrate diversity, and protect the truth. It is a beacon of global cooperation, lighting the way to a peaceful future.
