Governance
Pursuant to Article IV of the Constitution, the General Conference determines the policies and main lines of work of the Organization, and takes decisions on its programmes. It may summon international conferences and adopt conventions and recommendations in the fields of education, science and culture, as well as communication and information. The General Conference consists of the representatives of all States Members of the Organization and meets in ordinary session every two years.
The General Conference shall determine the policies and the main lines of work of the Organization. It shall take decisions on programmes submitted to it by the Executive Board.
Pursuant to Article V of the Constitution, the Executive Board prepares the agenda for the General Conference and examines the programme of work and budget estimates for the Organization, submitting recommendations to the General Conference. It is responsible for the execution of the programme adopted by the General Conference and takes all necessary measures to ensure its effective and rational execution. The Executive Board consists of representatives of 58 Member States elected by the General Conference and meets in regular session at least four times each biennium.
In accordance with the decisions of the General Conference and having regard to circumstances arising between two ordinary sessions, the Executive Board shall take all necessary measures to ensure the effective and rational execution of the programme by the Director-General.
The Secretariat, led by the Director-General and other key related institutions and groups, is responsible for managing the organization and representing it globally. As the chief executive, the Director-General ensures the effective implementation of decisions made by the General Conference and the Executive Board. They oversee the Secretariat’s staff, who carry out UNESCO’s international programs in key areas like education, science, culture, and communication.
Functioning as the administrative backbone of UNESCO, the Secretariat manages day-to-day operations, coordinates meetings, and supervises the execution of global projects. It transforms policy decisions into actionable programs, facilitates communication among member states, and ensures the efficient functioning of UNESCO’s field offices worldwide. Through these efforts, the Secretariat helps UNESCO advance its mission of fostering peace, education, and sustainable development globally.
