UNESCO .VG
UNESCO Headquarters

What is UNESCO?

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

The Purpose of UNESCO

UNESCO focuses on areas essential for fostering global harmony and human progress.

Education for All

Promoting inclusive, quality education to empower individuals and communities.

Cultural Heritage Preservation

Protecting sites of historical, cultural, and natural importance.

Scientific Collaboration

Encouraging international research and innovation to address global challenges.

Freedom of Expression

Advocating for press freedom and access to information.

UNESCO by the Numbers

1,154
World Heritage Sites

Cultural, natural, and mixed sites across 167 countries

180+
Member States

Countries working together to protect global heritage

75+
Years of Impact

Promoting peace through education, science, and culture since 1945

World Heritage Sites Distribution

UNESCO World Heritage Sites Map

Map showing the distribution of UNESCO World Heritage Sites across the globe

UNESCO Programs

World Heritage Sites

Designates and protects cultural landmarks, natural wonders, and mixed sites of outstanding universal value.

  • Pyramids of Giza
  • Great Barrier Reef
  • Machu Picchu

Education Programs

Promotes lifelong learning, digital inclusion, and strengthens teacher training worldwide.

  • Education for Sustainable Development
  • Gender equality in education
  • Digital learning resources

Scientific Initiatives

Addresses global challenges through research and collaboration.

  • Climate Change Action
  • Biosphere Reserves
  • Open Science

Global Impact

Cultural Preservation

UNESCO has successfully preserved over 1,000 cultural and natural heritage sites worldwide, ensuring these treasures remain for future generations.

Educational Development

Through various initiatives, UNESCO has improved access to quality education for millions of people, particularly in developing regions.

Scientific Progress

UNESCO's scientific programs have fostered international collaboration on critical issues like climate change, water management, and biodiversity conservation.

Challenges and Future Goals

Current Challenges

  • Political tensions
  • Underfunding
  • Climate change impact on heritage sites

Future Goals

  • Strengthening partnerships with global and local organizations
  • Expanding initiatives in digital education and technological innovation
  • Enhancing efforts to mitigate climate change effects on cultural and natural heritage