UNESCO

The UNESCO flag features the organization's emblem in white on a blue field. Its stylized classical temple has a roof supported by columns, evoking learning, cultural heritage and the shared responsibility to protect humanity's intellectual and cultural achievements. The emblem is closely associated with UNESCO's work in education, science, culture and communication. The blue-and-white design also reflects UNESCO's identity within the United Nations system. The flag represents international cooperation rather than any single country or national tradition.

UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, was founded on 16 November 1945, when its Constitution was signed in London after the Second World War. The Constitution entered into force on 4 November 1946. UNESCO was created on the principle that lasting peace requires more than political and economic agreements: it also depends on education, cultural understanding and cooperation among peoples. Over the decades, UNESCO developed programmes supporting literacy, scientific research, freedom of expression and the protection of cultural heritage. The World Heritage Convention, adopted in 1972, became one of its best-known international agreements. UNESCO also works on intangible cultural heritage, biosphere reserves, geoparks and the preservation of documentary heritage. Its mission continues to evolve as countries address digital education, climate-related challenges and the protection of knowledge and culture.

• UNESCO stands for United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
• Its Constitution was signed on 16 November 1945 and entered into force in 1946.
• UNESCO's headquarters are in Paris, France.
• The organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations.
• UNESCO's World Heritage Convention was adopted in 1972.
• World Heritage sites may be cultural, natural or mixed.
• UNESCO also supports the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage, such as traditions and performing arts.
• Its Man and the Biosphere Programme promotes cooperation between people and nature.
• UNESCO works on education, science, culture, communication and access to information.

Key Facts
• Established: 1945 (Constitution entered into force in 1946)
• Headquarters: Paris, France
• Organization type: UN specialized agency
• Principal mission: Building peace through international cooperation in education, science and culture

UNESCO promotes peace and sustainable development by helping countries cooperate in education, the sciences, culture and communication. Its work includes supporting inclusive, quality education and lifelong learning; strengthening scientific collaboration; protecting cultural and natural heritage; and promoting freedom of expression and access to reliable information. UNESCO develops international conventions, recommendations, research and practical programmes with governments and partners. It is especially known for the World Heritage List, but its activities extend far beyond monuments and historic sites to include oceans, biodiversity, teacher development, media literacy and the preservation of living cultural traditions. UNESCO is an intergovernmental organization, not a world government, and its programmes depend on cooperation with member states and other partners.