The Director-General of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay, announced the designation of Rabat (Morocco) as World Book Capital for 2026, based on the recommendation of the World Book Capital Advisory Committee. Following Rio de Janeiro in 2025, I am pleased to announce the designation of Rabat as World Book Capital for 2026. Rabat is a cultural crossroads where books help transmit knowledge and the arts in all their diversity. The growing local book industry is also playing a crucial role in advancing education. These actions resonate with UNESCO’s mandate.Audrey AzoulayUNESCO Director-General…
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UNESCO calls for greater gender equality in science
A new report produced by UNESCO in collaboration with the G20 demonstrates the chronic under-representation of women in scientific studies and professions. The Organization calls on countries to take strong measures to reinforce gender equality in these fields as quickly as possible. “In the G20 countries, the proportion of women working in science, technology, engineering and mathematics is plateauing at 22%. This situation undermines our collective ability to innovate and respond to the pressing challenges of our time, such as climate change and digital transformation. At Brazil’s instigation, UNESCO has…
Read MoreUNESCO raises the alarm on reports of illicit trafficking of cultural heritage
UNESCO is deeply concerned about the recent reports of possible looting and damage of several museums and heritage institutions in Sudan, including the National Museum, by armed groups. The Organization calls on the international community to do its utmost to protect Sudan’s heritage from destruction and illicit trafficking. Since the start of the hostilities in April 2023, UNESCO has been closely monitoring the impact of this crisis on Sudan’s heritage, cultural institutions and artists. In recent weeks, this threat to culture appears to have reached an unprecedented level, with reports…
Read MoreUNESCO empowers the media to champion disability equality
UNESCO is launching a Practical Manual and a Master Class video series on Disability Equality in the Media to provide practical recommendations for media organizations to include the principles of disability equality in their coverage, content production and management practices. The media shapes public perceptions and attitudes, particularly impacting persons with disabilities, who make up to 16% of the world’s population. By focusing on disability issues in editorial policies and programming, producing accessible content and fostering inclusive workplace practices, media professionals – including reporters, editors, technical staff and managers –…
Read MoreUNESCO Fosters Dialogue on Gender Equality in Sports, Arts, and Culture at World Women’s Forum
The UNESCO Regional Office for East Asia organized a thematic session on Gender Equality in Sports, Arts, and Culture within the framework of the World Women’s Forum, held on 22-23 August 2024 in Mongolia. With over 100 participants, the session brought together a diverse array of voices to address the persistent challenges and emerging opportunities for gender equality across these sectors. The session featured opening remarks by Ms. Munkhsoyol Baatarjav, Member of Parliament from Mongolia, and a video message from Prof. Shahbaz Khan, Director of UNESCO Regional Office for East…
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