UNESCO rethinks education for a sustainable future, leading theEducation 2030 agenda and supporting countries build lifelong learning systems that empower creative, responsible global citizens. Through theFutures of Education report, we address emerging trends and shape how learning impacts people and the planet.

We support countries in developing and sharing effective education policies, monitor legal frameworks to uphold the right to education, and foster global dialogue and partnerships, while strengthening human and institutional capacities through training in planning, curriculum design, data collection, and distance learning.

Furthering science for sustainability

UNESCO rethinks science for a sustainable future, helping countries harness knowledge and innovation to tackle pressing scientific and societal challenges. We advance research, foster cooperation, and promote knowledge-sharing while building capacity, supporting evidence-based policies, and providing technical assistance to ensure science drives sustainable development and global action.

Our flagship initiatives advancewater knowledge, promote sustainableinteractions between people and nature, strengthenEarth science research and education, and build fundamentalscientific capacity worldwide. 

We also highlight the value oftraditional knowledge in global climate science and policy, and deliver timely, policy-relevant insights intowater management and development, drawing on international networks and the experience of UNESCO-designated sites such asbiosphere reserves,Global Geoparks, andnaturalWorld Heritage sites.

Building fairer and inclusive societies

UNESCO leverages Social and Human Sciences to support inclusive and sustainable societies in a world facing major transitions, including climate, digital, demographic, and inequality challenges. We guide social transformations, strengthen the science-policy nexus, and ensure emerging technologies—such as AI, neurotechnology, and climate engineering—are governed ethically, while fostering trust in science and the safety of scientists.

We support countries in addressing racism and discrimination, promoting intercultural dialogue, empowering youth and women, and harnessing the ethical and social impact of sports. We also bring together the global community through partnerships and dialogue, while building capacities for social innovation, ethical governance, and the management of societal change.

Protecting our heritage and fostering creativity

UNESCO celebrates culture in all its forms, from historic monuments and museums to living heritage practices and contemporary art, enriching lives and helping build inclusive, innovative, and resilient communities.

We support countries in protecting and safeguarding cultural and natural heritage, fostering creativity, and strengthening dynamic cultural sectors. These efforts address today’s complex challenges, from climate change and inequality to the digital divide and emergencies, guided by a human-centred approach based on mutual respect and intercultural dialogue to promote lasting peace.

Promoting freedom of expression and access to quality information

UNESCO defends and promotes freedom of expression, media independence, and pluralism, while supporting the building of inclusive knowledge societies through universal access to information and the innovative use of digital technologies.

We support countries in strengthening these freedoms through capacity-building, policy advice, international cooperation, monitoring, and foresight, ensuring that fundamental rights are protected online and offline in line with international standards. Our work also promotes the ethical development and use of emerging technologies, and empowers citizens with 21st-century skills while fostering media pluralism, diversity, and enabling environments for informed, inclusive societies.

Protecting the health of our shared ocean for future generations

The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO (IOC) coordinates global efforts in ocean science and services, enabling 150 Member States to protect the health of our shared ocean through cooperation in areas such as ocean observation, tsunami warning systems, and marine spatial planning.

Since 1960, the IOC has united the scientific and institutional capacities of the United Nations system to better understand and manage our oceans, coasts, and marine ecosystems. Today, it supports countries in ensuring that ocean knowledge drives sustainable development for generations to come.

Supporting Africa's development

UNESCO and its partners engage with 54 African countries through a targeted strategy to advance the continent’s progress. We help build the foundation for an integrated and resilient African Economic Community by promoting regional cooperation, strengthening institutions, and fostering inclusive policies for sustainable development.

Our work spans education, culture, science, communication, and heritage — from supporting higher education and cultural innovation to advancing open science and technology. By reinforcing capacities, expanding access to knowledge, and nurturing strong partnerships, UNESCO helps African societies unlock their potential and shape a prosperous, inclusive future.

Empowering through equality

UNESCO works to eliminate all forms of gender-based discrimination, recognizing it as  a human rights violation. Women still face significant barriers worldwide — they represent less than a third of researchers, make up the majority of adults without basic literacy skills, and are disproportionately exposed to threats and violence in professions such as journalism.

We promote gender equality as a global priority, ensuring that women and men have equal opportunities, choices, and power to shape their futures. By equipping girls and boys, women and men with the knowledge, values, and skills to overcome gender disparities, UNESCO helps build more just, inclusive, and sustainable societies for all.