United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)

The United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that was founded in 1945. It comprises 193 member States and 7 associate member States. Using its specialized competencies, UNESCO works to create the conditions necessary for open dialogue among civilizations, cultures and peoples, all based upon respect for commonly shared values and global visions of sustainable development.

The United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that was founded in 1945. It comprises 193 member States and 7 associate member States. Using its specialized competencies, UNESCO works to create the conditions necessary for open dialogue among civilizations, cultures and peoples, all based upon respect for commonly shared values and global visions of sustainable development. The Organization’s mission is to contribute to the building of peace, the eradication of poverty, sustainable development and intercultural dialogue through education, the sciences, culture, communication and information. The internationally agreed-upon development goals, including the Millennium Development Goals, underpin all of UNESCO’s strategies and activities. Specifically, UNESCO focuses on two global priorities, namely, Africa and gender equality. The overarching objectives of the Organization are: attaining quality education for all and lifelong learning; mobilizing science knowledge and policy for sustainable development; addressing emerging social and ethical challenges; fostering cultural diversity, intercultural dialogue and a culture of peace; and, building inclusive knowledge societies through information and communication.

Energy at UNESCO

In its contribution to international efforts, UNESCO puts emphasis on addressing capacitybuilding and sharing of best practices in renewable and alternative energy in support of sustainable development, and on providing policy advice, especially in developing countries. Renewable and alternative energy in support of sustainable development and poverty eradication receive special attention through UNESCO’s contribution to reinforcing national capacities and the knowledge base, formulating energy policies and disseminating best practices, and scientific knowledge and technology.

Services provided by UNESCO include:

• Enhancing national capacities and the knowledge base in the energy field
• Sharing scientific knowledge and best practices
• Promoting energy policies
• Supporting pilot initiatives
• Providing technical assistance