执行局 يﺬﻴﻔﻨﺘﻟا ﺲﻠﻟﻤﺠاunesdoc.unesco.org/images/0026/002609/260921m.pdf · Mr Nassim MOHAND AMER . Argentina . Representative . Mr Rodolfo Héctor TERRAGNO

ex Consejo Ejecutivo Executive Board

Исполнительный совет Conseil exécutif 执行局 اجمللس التنفيذي

202nd session / 202e session / 202a reunión / 202-я сессия / الدورة الثانية بعد املائتني / 第二〇二届会议 Paris, 4 October – 18 October 2017 Париж, 4 октября – 18 октября 2017 г.

Paris, 4 octobre – 18 octobre 2017 ،٢٠١٧تشرين األول/أكتوبر ١٨-٤باريس París, 4 de octubre –18 de octubre de 2017 巴黎，2017 年 10 月 4 日‒10 月 18 日

202 EX/SR.1-12 PARIS, le 17 January 2018

Summary records Comptes rendus analytiques Actas resumidas Краткие отчеты

لمحاضر المختصرةا 简要记录

Quels que soient les termes utilisés dans les textes du présent recueil pour désigner les personnes exerçant des charges, mandats ou fonctions, il va de soi que les titulaires de tous les postes ou sièges correspondants peuvent être indifféremment des femmes ou des hommes.

202 EX/SR.1-12 page i

LIST OF MEMBERS OF THE EXECUTIVE BOARD

(Representatives and Alternates)

President of the General Conference – Mr Stanley M. SIMATAA (The President of the General Conference shall sit ex officio in an advisory capacity

on the Executive Board – Article V.A.1 (a) of the Constitution of UNESCO)

Albania Representative Ms Venera DOMI Alternates Mr Fation PENI Mr Sokol GJOKA Ms Edlira KOKONOZI Ms Ermira GODO Algeria Representative ---------- Alternates Mr Abdelkader MESDOUA Mr Lazhar SOUALEM Mr Saïd KHELIFI Mr Nassim MOHAND AMER Argentina Representative Mr Rodolfo Héctor TERRAGNO Alternates Mr Miguel Ángel HILDMANN Mr Eduardo LEONI PATRÓN COSTAS Ms Barbara GRANATELLI Mr Cristóbal SCHULTZ Bangladesh Representative Mr Kamal Abdul Naser CHOWDHURY (Chair of the Committee on Conventions and Recommendations - CR) Alternates Mr Md. Sohorab HOSSAIN Mr Md. Monjur HOSSAIN Mr Mohammad Hazrat Ali KHAN Ms Farhana Ahmed CHOWDHURY Mr A. K. M. Shahidul ISLAM Brazil Representative Ms Maria Edileuza FONTANELE REIS Alternates Ms Claudia DE BORBA MACIEL Mr Otávio BRIONES Mr Jeremias MARTINS NETO Ms Bianca SOTELINO DINATALE Ms Renata ROSSINI FASANO

Cameroon Representative Mr Ebenezer NJOH MOUELLE Alternates Mr Samuel MVONDO AYOLO Mr Jean Joseph ATANGANA Ms Brigitte NJOCK Mr KEYE NDOGO Ms Elisabeth BESSEM MANGA Mr Sylvestre ONANA Mr Philippe FOUDA TSILLA Mr Félix EBOA EBONGUE Ms Vincelline AKOMNDJA AVOM Mr Yacinthe ONDUA Chad Representative Mr Ahmad TABOYE Alternates Mr Feckoua Laurent LAOUKISSAM Mr Abdelkérim Adoum BAHAR China Representative Mr TIAN Xuejun Alternates Mr SHEN Yang Mr ZHOU Jiagui Mr FANG Qingchao Ms LI Youwen Mr HOU Jian Ms ZONG Huawei Mr WANG Meng Ms GE Siying Mr ZHU Liyu Mr TIAN Lin Mr XING Jisheng Ms HOU Pei Ms WANG Huaping Ms YU Xiaoping Mr SHEN Yubiao Ms JIA Nan Ms CHENG Kang Ms WEI Xia Mr CHENG Zhijie Mr JIA Peng Ms YOU Jia Mr XU Zhiqiang

202 EX/SR.1-12 page ii

Côte d’Ivoire Representative Ms Kamissoko Kandia CAMARA Alternates Ms Denise HOUPHOUET-BOIGNY Mr Brahima SANGARE Mr N’golo Aboudou SORO Mr Serges GBA Dominican Republic (Vice-Chair) Representative Mr José Antonio RODRIGUEZ DUVERGÉ Alternates Ms Josefina ALVAREZ Ms Patricia DORE Egypt Representative Mr Khaled Atef ABDEL GHAFFAR Alternates Mr Sameh SHOUKRY Mr Ehab BADAWY Ms Moushira KHATTAB Mr Mohamed EL ORABY Mr Mohamed NEGM Mr Ahmed ABOU ZEID Mr Hossam EL MALLAHY Mr Wael ABDELWAHAB Mr Amr MORSY Mr Omar AREF Mr Ahmed EL KEIY Mr Omar HICHAM Mr Ahmed ASHRAF Mr Karim AWAD Mr Mohamed AMIN El Salvador Representative Ms Lorena SOL DE POOL (Chair of the Finance and Administrative Commission - FA) Alternates Mr Carlos CASTANEDA Ms Erlinda HANDAL VEGA Ms Rosa Ester MOREIRA DE LEMOINE Mr Carlos SEGURA ARAGON Ms Nicole DÜRLER ESCOBAR Estonia Representative Ms Ingrid AMER Alternates Ms Kerli GUTMAN Ms Margit SIIM Ms Madli ROSS Ms Katrin REIN

Ms TRIIN LOKS Ms Auriane ROCHOIS Ms Triin NYMANN France Representative Mr Laurent STÉFANINI Alternates Mme Françoise NYSSEN Mr Etienne SUR Mr Michel POUCHEPADASS Mr Pierre-Yves KERVENNAL Mr Michel EISEMANN Mr Daniel JANICOT Mr Alexis LAMEK Mr Jean-Marc SERE CHARLET Mr Gaël DE MAISONNEUVE Ms Anne-Marie MASKAY Germany Representative Mr Michael WORBS (Chairperson of the Executive Board)

Alternates Mr Stefan KRAWIELICKI Ms Gabriele SCHEEL Mr Jens STRECKERT Mr Winfried MAIER Mr Lutz MÖLLER Ms Frauke RÖDEL Ms Franziska STRASSER Ghana Representative Mr Matthew Opoku PREMPEH Alternates Ms Anna BOSSMAN Ms Ama Serwah NERQUAYE-TETTEH Ms Elizabeth SARKODIE-MENSAH Mr Riche-Mike WELLINGTON Ms Betty OSAFO-MENSAH Mr Kwabena AKUFFO-AKOTO Mr Gilbert DADZIE Greece Representative Mr Michel SPINELLIS Alternate Ms Maria CORANTIS Guinea Representative Mr Amara CAMARA Alternates Mr Abou KATY Mr Mody Sory BARRY Mr Tolomsè CAMARA

202 EX/SR.1-12 page iii

Haiti Representative ---------- Alternates Mr James Samuel R. JULES Ms Sylvie MERIZIER DESCOLLINES Ms Marie K. LINDOR India Representative Mr Karan SINGH Alternates Mr Vinay Mohan KWATRA Mr Arif SAEED Ms Ananya AGARWAL Iran (Islamic Republic of) Representative Mr Ahmad JALALI Alternates Mr Morteza HAMISSI Mr Akbar REZAEI Italy Representative Ms Vincenza LOMONACO Alternates Mr Arnaldo MINUTI Mr Eugenio POTI Mr Giampietro ROMANO Ms Marina MISITANO Ms Cristina PORZIO Japan Representative Ms Kuni SATO Alternates Mr Koji KITAYAMA Mr Shingo HOTTA Mr Sadahiro HAGIWARA Mr Yukinobu MAEDA Ms Aya SAKUMASU Mr Kohei TSUBONE Mr Tsubasa HAYASHIDA Ms Akeno YAYAMA Kenya Representative Mr James Gichiah NJOGU Alternates Ms Mohamed AMINA Mr Fred MATIANG’I Ms Monica JUMA Mr Belio KIPSANG

Ms Collette SUDA Ms Dinah MWINZI Ms Goerge GODIA Ms Evangeline NJOKA Ms Christine MAINGI Mr Joel ONGOTO Mr John OMARE Ms Christine M’KWENDA Mr John Paul OLUOCH Mr Victor SOO Lebanon Representative Mr Khalil KARAM a.i. Alternates Ms Milia JABBOUR Mr Hichan CHEAIB Ms Naya KHAIRALLAH Lithuania (Vice-Chair) Representative Ms Irena VAIŠVILAITĖ Alternates Mr Rytis SATKAUSKAS Ms Kristina TAMOSAITYTE Ms Ringaile KUOKSTYTE Malaysia (Vice-Chair) Representative Mr Dato’ Seri MAHDZIR BIN KHALID Alternates Mr Dato’Sri Alias Bin HAJI AHMAD Mr Dato’ Mohd Zulkifli MOHAMMED Ms Zuraini BT ABIDIN Ms Nor Latifah HUSSIN Mr S.K. DAS Mauritius Representative Ms Leela Devi DOOKUN-LUCHOOMUN Alternates Mr Vijayen VALAYDON Mr Neysen UDAIYAN Mr Nilkanthsing JAGARNATH Mr Harrveen RAMDHIAN Mr Vee Lim YAP SAN MIN Ms Léa MASSON Mexico Representative Mr Juan Manuel GÓMEZ-ROBLEDO VERDUZCO Alternates Ms Emma RODRÍGUEZ SIFUENTES Ms Magdalena DÍAS TÉLLEZ Ms Beatriz LAVIN Mr Rodrigo Daniel MENDIVIL OCAMPO

202 EX/SR.1-12 page iv

Mr Ismael MADRIGAL Ms Tania MORALES Ms Julieta CARBAJAL Morocco (Vice-Chair) Representative Ms Zohour ALAOUI Alternates Ms Najat RHANDI Ms Hanane BOUAROUROU Ms Siham SEBBAR Mr El Amer NOUREDDINE Ms Nissrine SABREI Mozambique Representative Mr Alexandre da Conceição ZANDAMELA Alternates Mr Albino Daniel Jeremias MALIMANE Ms Quitéria Hermenegilda MABOTE Ms Zibia MATOLA Mr António BAMBISSA Nepal Representative Mr Shanta Bahadur SHRESTHA Alternates Ms Ambika Devi LUINTEL Mr Ram Babu DHAKAL Mr Lekha Nath BHATTARAI Netherlands Representative Mr Lionel VEER Alternates Ms Margot LLOMPART Mr Stein VAN OOSTEREN Ms Mascha WISMANS Ms Annemarie DEZENTJÉ Ms Nienke KEHRER

Nicaragua Representative Ms Ruth Esperanza TAPIA ROA Alternates Ms Sylvia Celina MIRANDA PANIAGUA Mr Hugo Ramon ORTEGA RODRIGUEZ Mr Julián CALFUQUIR Nigeria Representative Ms Mariam Yalwaji KATAGUM Alternates Ms Magdalene ANENE-MAIDOH Mr Imoh Sunday EGBO

Ms Edith Kanayo OKORO Mr Folarin OSOTIMEHIN Mr Yemi LIJADU Oman Representative Ms Samira AL MOOSA (Chair of the Special Committee – SP) Alternates Mr Nasser AL RAWAHI Ms Yara AL GHAFRI Pakistan Representative Ms Rahila MAGSI Alternates Mr Shoaib MIR Mr Moin UL-HAQUE Mr Sajid BALOCH Mr Qamar BASHIR Ms Ayesha SAEED Ms Iqra ASHRAF Mr Adeel MUMTAZ KHOKLAR Paraguay Representative Ms María Leticia CASATI Alternates Mr Sila ESTIGARRIBIA Ms Luz Marina MORENO Mr José Federico SAMUDIO Ms María Victoria BENITEZ Qatar Representative Mr Mohammed Bin Abdul Wahed Ali AL HAMMADI Alternates Mr Ali ZAINAL Ms Hamda AL-SULAITI Mr Youssef LARAM Mr Abdullah AL-MEHAIZA Ms Shaikha AL-SULAITI Mr Nasser HINZAB Ms Ebtesam ALOMAISI Republic of Korea Representative Mr LEE Byong-hyun

Alternates Mr LEE Eun-yong Mr JUNG Yung Soo Mr LEE Youngchan Ms KWAK Han Sol Ms BAEK Minjee Ms LIM So Yeon Ms KWON Jeongmin Ms LEE Sun Kyung

202 EX/SR.1-12 page v

Russian Federation Representative Mr Alexander KUZNETSOV Alternates Mr Gennady GATILOV Mr Grigoriy ORDZHONIKIDZE Ms Tatiana DOVGALENKO Mr Dmitry KNYAZHINSKIY Mr Dmitry DARCHENKOV Mr Artem KOZVONIN Mr Aleksei KOVALENKO-NAROCHNITSKII Mr Nicolay KHAUSTOV Mr Viktor BALANDIN Ms Marina IANKOVA Ms Anna ZVEREVA Ms Ksenia GAVERDOVSKAYA Mr Igor GORIACHEV Ms Anastasiia KUZMINSKAIA Mr Viktor GRADOBOEV Ms Viktoria CHABANOVA Ms Irina ERMOLIEVA Ms Svetlana UDALOVA Mr Vladimir BORZENKOV Ms Daria VASSILEVSKAIA Mr Dmitrii VOROBIEV Mr Igor GANSHIN Mr Vladimir LITVINENKO Mr Evgueniy LUBINE Mr Mikhail PIOTROVSKIY Ms Alexandra POLINOVSKAIA Mr Andrey TCHECHEV Saint Kitts and Nevis Representative Mr Antonio MAYNARD Alternate Mr David DOYLE Senegal Representative Mr Serigne Mbaye THIAM Alternates Mr Abdou SOURANG Mr Aliou LY Mr Mouhamadou SARR Mr Latyr DIOUF Mr Pape Mouhamdou DIOUF Ms Awa Niang NDIAYE Mr El Hadji Habib KEBE Serbia Representative Mr Darko TANASKOVIĆ Chair of the Committee on Non-Governmental Partners - NGP) Alternates

Mr Goran MILASINOVIC Ms Aleksandra KOVAC Ms Jasmina STANKOVIC-TATARAC Ms Ivona BAGARIC Slovenia Representative Mr Radovan Stanislav PEJOVNIK Alternates Mr Andrej SLAPNIČAR Ms Veronika POHAR BOŠKOVIČ Ms Marjutka HAFNER Ms Ana STRNAD Ms Petra TRKOV South Africa (Vice-Chair) Representative Mr Rapulane Sydney MOLEKANE Alternates Ms Nthabiseng MALEFANE Ms Kgmotso RAHLAGA Ms Verna SLINGERS CUPIDO Ms Peggy NKONYENI Mr CL MUKWEVHO Mr Marthinus VAN SCHALKWYK Spain Representative Ms María Teresa LIZARANZU PERINAT Alternates Mr Jaime RODRÍGUEZ-PONGA Ms Alicia DELIBES Mr Pedro Antonio VARGAS CAMACHO Ms María SALADICH Ms Marta SENAR Sri Lanka Representative Mr Akila Viraj KARIYAWASAM Alternates Mr Tilak RANAVIRAJA Ms Dhammika WIJAYASINGHE Ms Shobini GUNESEKARA Ms Ruvini MUNIDASA Sudan Representative Mr Abdeen SALIH Alternates Mr Dafallah ALHAG ALI Mr Suad MIRGHANI Mr Abdelhafiz MOHMOUD Ms Azza Hamad ALAZRAG

202 EX/SR.1-12 page vi

Sweden (Vice-Chair) Representative Ms Annika MARKOVIC Alternates Ms Ulrika FERENIUS Ms Frida GUSTAFSSON Ms Julia LODÉN Mr Per MAGNUSSON Togo Representative Mr Komlavi Francisco SEDDOH (Chair of the Programme and External Relations Commission – PX) Alternates Mr Sankardja LARE-SAMBIANI Mr Koffi Michel AGBOH Mr Akama KIDEMA Mr Elom Favorit AGUDZE Trinidad and Tobago Representative Mr Dennis FRANCIS

Alternates --------------- Turkmenistan Representative Mr Tchary NIIAZOV Alternates Mr Batyr BERDIYEV Mr Kakageldi CHASOV Uganda Representative Mr Allan BIRABI Alternates Ms Nimisha MADHVANI Ms Rosie AGOI Ms Dora KUTESA Ms Juliette NAKAWUMA Mr Elly KAMAHUNGYE KAFEERO Ukraine Representative Mr Sergiy KYSLYTSYA

Alternates Mr Oleh SHAMSHUR Mr Refat CHUBAROV Mr Volodymyr KOVTUNETS Ms Tamara MAZUR Mr Mykola MOVCHAN Mr Sergii REVA Mr Volodymyr GRYTSENKO Mr Pavlo CHERINKO Mr Kostiantyn ABLAZOV Mr Anatolii ZLENKO United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Representative Mr Matthew LODGE Alternates Mr Colin MC INNES Mr James BRIDGE Ms Beth TAYLOR Mr Matthew RABAGLIATI Ms Moira NASH Ms Charlotte HINE-HAYCOCK United States of America Representative Mr Chris HEGADORN a.i. Alternates Ms Jacqueline DOVER Mr Michael GARUCKIS Mr Jonathan KOEHLER Mr Donald MAYNARD Mr Greg THOME Mr Phyllis MAGRAB Viet Nam Representative Mr LE Hoai Trung Alternates Mr NGUYEN Ngoc Son Ms TRAN Thi Hoang Mai Mr PHAM Vinh Quang Mr VU Binh Ms NGUYEN Thi Van Anh Ms NGUYEN Thi Thanh Binh Ms LE Phuong Nga Mr NGUYEN Tuan Khanh Mr NGUYEN Nam Khanh Mr NGUYEN Trung Dung Mr DAO Quyen Truong

202 EX/SR.1-12 page vii

REPRESENTATIVES AND OBSERVERS OF THE UNITED NATIONS SYSTEM

AND INTERGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS

Arab League Mr Boutros ASSAKER

International Telecommunications Union Mr Georges DUPONT Senior Management Team

Ms Irina BOKOVA (Director-General) Mr Getachew ENGIDA (Deputy Director-General) Mr Qian TANG (Assistant Director-General for Education) Ms Flavia SCHLEGEL (Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences) Mr Vladimir RYABININ (Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission) Ms Nada AL-NASHIF (Assistant Director-General for the Social and Human Sciences) Mr Francesco BANDARIN (Assistant Director-General for Culture ad interim) Mr Frank LARUE (Assistant Director-General for Communication and Information) Mr Eric FALT (Assistant Director-General for External Relations and Public Information) Mr Firmin E. MATOKO (Assistant Director-General for Africa) Ms Paola LEONCINI BARTOLI (Director of the Office of the Director-General)

Mr Jean-Yves LE SAUX (Director of the Bureau of Strategic Planning) Ms Anna SEGALL (Legal Adviser and Director of the Office of International Standards and Legal Affairs)

Ms Karima BEKRI-LISNER (Director of the Governing Bodies Secretariat (GBS), Secretary of the Executive Board and of the General Conference) and other members of the Secretariat.

202 EX/SR.1-12 page ix

AGENDA

Item

ORGANIZATION AND PROCEDURAL MATTERS

1 Agenda and timetable of work

2 Approval of the summary records of the 201st session

3 Report by the Director-General on the application of Rule 59 of the Rules of Procedure of the Executive Board

REPORTING ITEMS

4 Execution of the programme adopted by the General Conference

4.I Programme execution

4.II Budgetary situation of the Organization for 2016-2017 (38 C/5 approved as adjusted) as at 30 June 2017.

Budget adjustments arising from donations and special contributions received and Management Chart for Programme Execution in 2016-2017 (38 C/5 approved as adjusted) Status as at 30 June 2017

5 Follow-up to decisions and resolutions adopted by the Executive Board and the General Conference at their previous sessions

I Programme issues

A UNESCO’s activities to enhance learning opportunities for refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs)

B UNESCO’s role as a UNAIDS co-sponsor and strategy on education for health and well-being

C UNESCO’s activities related to the Global Guidance on addressing school-related gender-based violence

D UNESCO’s efforts to promote gender equality in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education

E Report on progress by the UNESCO Institute for Statistics on a disaggregated level of data for development indicators related to small island developing States (SIDS)

F Report by the Director-General on UNESCO’s participation in the International celebrations of the 150th anniversary of the periodic table of chemical elements in 2019

G Cultural and educational institutions in Iraq

H Report on the implementation of the Strategy for the reinforcement of UNESCO’s Action for the protection of culture and the promotion of cultural pluralism in the event of armed conflict

I Revised Bylaws of the International Alliance for the Protection of Heritage in Conflict Areas (ALIPH)

J Proposed strategy and action plan to protect and strengthen brand recognition of biosphere reserves, world heritage sites, and UNESCO Global Geoparks

K Progress report on safety of journalists and the issue of impunity

L Follow-up of the situation in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea (Ukraine)

M Special post-conflict overall support programme for Côte d’Ivoire

II Evaluation issues

Periodic report on Internal Oversight Service (IOS) evaluations

III Management issues

A Implementation of the Participation Programme and Emergency Assistance

B Implementation by UNESCO of the United Nations System-wide Action Plan (UN SWAP) on Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women

C Structured Financing Dialogue

D UNESCO Security and Safety Action Plan

E Implementation of the action plan for improved management of extrabudgetary funds

F Report on the implementation on invest for Efficient Delivery

G Review of Cost recovery policy

202 EX/SR.1-12 page x

IV Human resources issues

A Use of non-staff contracts including consultants in 2016

B Human Resources Management Strategy

C Progress of the After-Service Health Insurance (ASHI) working group and its recommendations

PROGRAMME MATTERS

6 UNESCO’s global/regional coordination of and support for the implementation of SDG4-Education 2030

7 UNESCO’s contribution to the prevention of violent extremism through education

8 Progress report on the preparation of the draft Global Convention on the Recognition of Higher Education Qualifications

9 UNESCO policy on engaging with indigenous peoples

10 Report of the Director-General on the finalization of the draft declaration of ethical principles in relation to climate change

11 Revision of the Statutes of the Management of Social Transformation (MOST) Intergovernmental Council

12 Report on the implementation of the International Decade for the Rapprochement of Cultures (2013-2022)

13 Situation of the International Fund for the Promotion of Culture (IFPC)

14 Report on the implementation of the Information for All Programme (IFAP) (2016-2017)

15 Final report by the International Advisory Committee (IAC) on the Review Process of the Memory of the World Programme

16 Renewal of UNESCO Prizes

16.I1 Kalinga Prize for the Popularization of Science

16.II Renewal of the UNESCO-Greece Melina Mercouri International Prize for the Safeguarding and Management of Cultural Landscapes

INSTITUTES AND CENTRES

17 Category 1 institutes and centres

Management of education-related category 1 institutes

18 Category 2 institutes and centres

I2 Renewals and reviews of category 2 institutes and centres

II Establishment in Mexico of a regional centre on water security (CERSHI)

III Establishment in the Netherlands of an institute for water education (IHE)

IV Establishment in Ukraine of the junior academy of sciences

V Establishment in Ghana of an institute of mathematical sciences

VI Establishment in the Russian Federation of an international competence centre for mining-engineering education

VII3 Establishment in Iran of a centre of research and training in basic sciences

VIII Establishment in Iran of an international centre for health-related basic science and human nutrition

IX Establishment in India of an international training centre on operational oceanography within the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS)

X Establishment in Kazakhstan of an international centre for the rapprochement of cultures

XI Establishment in Austria of an international centre for the promotion of human rights at the local and regional levels

XII4 Establishment in Morocco of a centre for the protection of urban heritage in the Arab region

XIII Establishment in Indonesia of a regional centre for human evolution, adaptations and dispersals in Southeast Asia (CHEADSEA)

XIV Establishment in China of a centre for teacher education at Shanghai Normal University 1 This sub-item was postponed. 2 Sub-item 202 EX/18 Part I (B) was postponed 3 This sub-item was withdrawn. 4 This sub-item was postponed.

202 EX/SR.1-12 page xi

XV Establishment in the Republic of Korea of a centre for documentary heritage

XVI Establishment in China of an Associated Schools Project network (ASPnet) international centre

PROGRAMMING AND BUDGETING

19 Draft Programme and Budget for 2018-2021 (39 C/5)

METHODS OF WORK OF THE ORGANIZATION

20 Report by the Executive Board on its activities and programme implementation

20.I Activities in 2016-2017, including its methods of work

20.II Implementation of the current Programme and Budget (38 C/5), with results achieved in 2014-2016

21 Governance, procedures and working methods of the governing bodies of UNESCO

22 Reports by the Joint Inspection Unit (JIU) of interest to UNESCO and the status of implementation of recommendations

MATTERS RELATING TO NORMS, STATUTES AND REGULATIONS

23 Examination of the communications transmitted to the Committee on Conventions and Recommendations in pursuance of 104 EX/Decision 3.3, and report of the Committee thereon

24 Implementation of standard-setting instruments

24.I General monitoring

24.II Implementation of the 1960 Convention and Recommendation against Discrimination in Education – summary of the reports concerning the implementation of the Convention and Recommendation

24.III Implementation of the 1974 Recommendation concerning Education for International Understanding, Cooperation and Peace and Education relating to Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms – consolidated report on the implementation of the Recommendation

24.IV Implementation of the 1974 Recommendation on the Status of Scientific Researchers – consolidated report on the implementation of the Recommendation

24.V Implementation of the 1993 Recommendation on the Recognition of Studies and Qualifications in Higher Education

24.VI Implementation of the 2011 Recommendation on the Historic Urban Landscape, including a glossary of definitions – preparations for the next consultation

24.VII Implementation of the 2015 Recommendation concerning the Protection and Promotion of Museums and Collections, their Diversity and their Role in Society – preparations for the next consultation

25 Protocol instituting a Conciliation and Good Offices Commission to be responsible for seeking the Settlement of any Disputes which may arise between States Parties to the Convention against Discrimination in Education: Nominations and report of the Committee on Conventions and Recommendations thereon

GENERAL CONFERENCE

26 Nomination of a candidate for the post of Director-General of UNESCO

27 Preparation of the 39th session of the General Conference

27.I Revised provisional agenda of the 39th session of the General Conference

27.II Addendum to the draft plan for the organization of the work of the 39th session of the General Conference

27.III Submission of nominations for the offices of President and Vice-Presidents of the 39th session of the General Conference as well as for the offices of Chairpersons of committees and commissions

27.IV Admission to the 39th session of the General Conference of observers from non-governmental organizations (other than those in official partnership with UNESCO), foundations and similar institutions maintaining official relations with UNESCO, as well as from other international organizations

27.V Venue of the 40th session of the General Conference

ADMINISTRATIVE AND FINANCIAL QUESTIONS

28 Report by the Director-General as at 31 May 2017 on the implementation of the recommendations of the External Auditor and his comments thereon

29 Financial report and audited consolidated financial statements relating to the accounts of UNESCO for the year ending 31 December 2016 and report by the External Auditor

202 EX/SR.1-12 page xii

30 Financial Regulations of Special Accounts

31 Collection of Member States’ Contributions and cashflow implications

Report by the Director-General on the Collection of Member States’ contributions

Report by the Director-General on the current situation and contingency plan

32 New audits by the External Auditor

Audit report on the mobilization of extrabudgetary resources

Audit report on the Culture Sector

Audit report on the Medical Benefits Fund and the UNESCO Medical Service

33 Appointment by the Executive Board of the Chairperson and the Alternate Chairperson of the Appeals Board

34 Report by the Director-General, in cooperation with the Headquarters Committee, on managing the UNESCO complex

35 Report by the Director-General on the activities of the Advisory Committee for Works of Art

RELATIONS WITH MEMBER STATES, INTERGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS AND INTERNATIONAL NON-GOVERNMENTAL PARTNERS

36 Proposals for the celebration of anniversaries with which UNESCO could be associated in 2018-2019, and appeals by Member States concerning their proposals

37 Relations with non-governmental partners

GENERAL MATTERS

38 Occupied Palestine

39 Implementation of 38 C/Resolution 72 and 201 EX/Decision 31 concerning educational and cultural institutions in the occupied Arab territories

ADDITIONAL ITEMS

40 Association of UNESCO to the International Union of Architects (UIA) initiative to nominate the UIA World Congress Host Cities as World Capital of Architecture

41 Amendment to Rule 23 of the Rules of procedure of the Executive Board to allow written contributions to the plenary debate to be included in the Summary Records

42 The Memory of Ice: A Challenge for the Future

43 Proposal for the proclamation by the United Nations of 2019 as an International Year of the Periodic Table of Chemical Elements

44 UNESCO’s role in promoting literacy within the framework of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

45 Affirming UNESCO’s role in Sustainable Tourism for Development

202 EX/SR.1-12 page xiii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Item Page

First meeting – Monday 9 October 2017 at 10.15 a.m. 1

OPENING OF THE 202ND SESSION .................................................................................................................................... 1

ORGANIZATION AND PROCEDURAL MATTERS ...................................................................................................................... 1

1 Agenda and timetable of work .............................................................................................................................. 1

2 Approval of the summary records of the 201st session ...................................................................................... 3

REPORTING ITEMS .......................................................................................................................................................... 3

4 Execution of the programme adopted by the General Conference ..................................................................... 3

5 Follow-up to decisions and resolutions adopted by the Executive Board and the General Conference at their previous sessions ....................................................................................... 3

PROGRAMMING AND BUDGETING ...................................................................................................................................... 4

19 Draft Programme and Budget for 2018-2021 (39 C/5) ....................................................................................... 4

Introduction by the Director-General to the plenary debate .......................................................................................... 4

Plenary debate ............................................................................................................................................................. 8

Second meeting – Monday 9 October 2017 at 3.15 p.m. 21

REPORTING ITEMS (continued) ....................................................................................................................................... 21

4 Execution of the programme adopted by the General Conference (continued) .................................................. 21

5 Follow-up to decisions and resolutions adopted by the Executive Board and the General Conference at their previous sessions (continued) ................................................................. 21

PROGRAMMING AND BUDGETING (continued) ................................................................................................................... 21

19 Draft Programme and Budget for 2018-2021 (39 C/5) (continued) ..................................................................... 21

Plenary debate (continued) ......................................................................................................................................... 21

GENERAL CONFERENCE .................................................................................................................................................. 36

26 Nomination of a candidate for the post of Director-General of UNESCO .............................................................. 36

Third meeting – Tuesday 10 October 2017 at 10.20 a.m. 39





19 Draft Programme and Budget for 2018-2021 (39 C/5) (continued) .................................................................... 39

Plenary debate (continued) ......................................................................................................................................... 39

Fourth meeting – Tuesday 10 October 2017 at 3.15 p.m. 65





19 Draft Programme and Budget for 2018-2021 (39 C/5) (continued) .................................................................... 65

Reply by the Director-General to the plenary debate ................................................................................................... 66

Questions and answers with the Director-General ........................................................................................................ 68

GENERAL CONFERENCE (continued) ............................................................................................................................... 70

26 Nomination of a candidate for the post of Director-General of UNESCO (continued) ........................................... 70

202 EX/SR.1-12 page xiv

Fifth meeting – Wednesday 11 October 2017 at 7.20 p.m. 71

GENERAL CONFERENCE (continued) ................................................................................................................................ 71


Sixth meeting – Thursday 12 October 2017 at 7.20 p.m. 73



Seventh meeting – Friday 13 October 2017 at 2.40 p.m. 75



Eighth meeting – Friday 13 October 2017 at 7.15 p.m. 77



Ninth meeting – Tuesday 17 October 2017 at 10.15 a.m. 79

METHODS OF WORK OF THE ORGANIZATION ....................................................................................................................... 79

20 Report by the Executive Board on its activities and programme implementation .................................................. 79

ADOPTION OF DRAFT DECISIONS RECOMMENDED TO THE EXECUTIVE BOARD ......................................................................... 79

ORGANIZATION AND PROCEDURAL MATTERS (continued) .................................................................................................... 82

3 Report by the Director General on the application of Rule 59 of the Rules of Procedure of the Executive Board and timetable of work ....................................................................................................... 82

Committee on Non-Governmental Partners: report and draft decisions recommended to the Executive Board .......................................................................................................................... 83

Tenth meeting – Tuesday 17 October 2017 at 3.10 p.m. 87

ADOPTION OF DRAFT DECISIONS RECOMMENDED TO THE EXECUTIVE BOARD (continued) ...................................................... 87

Special Committee (SP): report and draft decisions recommended to the Executive Board ......................................... 87

METHODS OF WORK OF THE ORGANIZATION (continued) ..................................................................................................... 89

20 Report by the Executive Board on its activities and programme implementation (continued) ............................... 89


27 Preparation of the 39th session of the General Conference ................................................................................. 90

Eleventh meeting – Wednesday 18 October 2017 at 10.15 a.m. 93

ADOPTION OF DRAFT DECISIONS RECOMMENDED TO THE EXECUTIVE BOARD (continued) ...................................................... 93

Finance and Administrative Commission (FA): report and draft decisions recommended to the Executive Board ........................................................................................... 93

Programme and External Relations Commission (PX): report and draft decisions recommended to the Executive Board ........................................................................................ 100

Joint meeting of the PX and FA Commissions: report and draft decisions recommended to the Executive Board ........................................................................................... 109

Twelfth meeting – Wednesday 18 October 2017 at 3.10 p.m. 115

Withdrawal of the United States of America from UNESCO .......................................................................................... 115

TRIBUTES ........................................................................................................................................................................ 118

CLOSURE OF THE 202ND SESSION OF THE EXECUTIVE BOARD ............................................................................................. 126

Annex: Unedited statements submitted in writing by Member States ........................................................................... 129

202 EX/SR.1-12 page 1 – SR.1

FIRST MEETING

Monday 9 October 2017 at 10.15 a.m.

Chairperson: Mr Worbs

OPENING OF THE 202ND SESSION

1.1 The Chairperson in extenso: Mr President of the General Conference, Madam Director-General, honourable ministers, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, dear colleagues, welcome to the 202nd session of the Executive Board. This Board session is the culmination of the work that we have undertaken as a team over the past biennium. I think it is safe to say that throughout the last two years or so we have met more often in this room than at any other time in recent history. So far we have met three times in regular session and, additionally, we have met, together with the non-Members of the Executive Board, on ten other occasions during the intersessional meetings that we decided to organize on a trial basis, not to mention at the several information meetings that were organized, as well as in the working group ably chaired by the Chairperson of the Finance and Administrative Commission (FA), Ambassador Sol de Pool, to finalize our C/6 document. That regularity of getting together and touching base has been helpful, especially in understanding the complex processes of the new budgetary framework that we are moving towards. It has been quite intense, to say the least.

1.2 Ladies and gentlemen, we are honoured by the presence of several ministers and vice-ministers during our session. They have come to participate in our deliberations. Such a high-level presence here at UNESCO demonstrates very clearly the importance of the work we undertake to build peace, eradicate poverty and promote intercultural dialogue to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals through education, the sciences, culture and communication and information.

1.3 This session is the last to be held before the 39th session of the General Conference. Unfortunately, we meet in the aftermath of several acts of violence and extremism of the worst kind that have affected many. We meet subsequent to horrendous climate events, which have changed the lives of millions while depriving thousands of their very existence. We meet, regrettably, knowing that the mantra of our Constitution and the mission statement of our Organization are more relevant than ever before. While we cannot master the destructive forces of nature, we can and should be able to implement policies that help to mitigate the negative effects that humankind is having on our environment. Every effort must be made to ensure that the defences of peace are constructed. This is why UNESCO was created and why we are here today.

1.4 Mr President of the General Conference, Madam Director-General, honourable ministers, ladies and gentlemen, dear colleagues, during this very important session of the Executive Board we will be making recommendations to the General Conference on two of the most important aspects entrusted to us to ensure that our Organization fulfils its mandate. This will be the most forward-looking session of the Board because we shall be responsible for making recommendations to the General Conference for it to adopt the Programme and Budget for 2018–2021, and we also have the great responsibility of nominating the candidate that we recommend be appointed as the Director-General of UNESCO to succeed Ms Bokova, whose time in office is about to come to an

end after eight important and challenging years at the helm of this Organization.

1.5 In the coming days and weeks I know that I can count on each and every one of you to keep in mind the aspirations that all 195 Member States have entrusted to us. Much needs to be done. We have a packed agenda and a limited amount of time. Several programme issues need to be addressed and several management issues need to be dealt with, including administrative and financial questions. We will also need to formulate recommendations relating to governance and, finally, we must also make the final preparations for the upcoming session of the General Conference itself. The road ahead will be long and the journey will be challenging. But with the goodwill of all, the steady leadership of our chairpersons of the commissions and committees, as well as the direction provided by the Vice-Chairpersons of the regional groups and the active participation of our Director-General and her colleagues, I am certain that we will reach our destination safe and sound. The positive experience gained during our recent tenth intersessional meeting will surely contribute to the effective manner with which we deal with the great number of items on our agenda. Of vital importance is deliberating with the best interest of the Organization at heart to achieve the best possible scenario to secure the financing that the future Director-General will need to make sure that UNESCO maintains its rightful place on the international stage and within the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. I know that the Chairperson of the FA Commission, together with many representatives and members of the Secretariat, has been working diligently since our previous Board session to accomplish this important task. Because I spoke of the future Director-General, I know that the task of selecting this person will be crucial and I am confident that we will be able to conduct this process as serenely as possible, with the dignity that such a duty requires and the wisdom that such a responsibility places on our shoulders.

1.6 Dear colleagues, it will be up to us during the next two weeks to make sure that we provide the General Conference with the recommendations that it needs to secure UNESCO’s future for the coming four years. I know just how dedicated we all are to accomplishing these objectives. I also know just how determined each and every one of us is to ensure that our Organization will be able to fulfil its constitutional mandate to contribute to international peace and human development through education, the sciences, culture, and communication and information. Dear colleagues, now let us move on to the work of the session.

ORGANIZATION AND PROCEDURAL MATTERS

Item 1: Agenda and timetable of work (202 EX/1 Prov. Rev.)

2.1 The Chairperson informed the Board that the provisional agenda and timetable of work had been despatched to all Members, in accordance with Rule 5.1 of the Rules of Procedure of the Executive Board, on 8 September 2017. The provisional agenda had since been revised, pursuant to Rule 6, to include one new item proposed by Oman, namely item 45 “Affirming UNESCO’s role in sustainable tourism for development”, and two new sub-items proposed by the Director-General: the first concerned the renewal of the category 2 status of the Asia-Pacific Centre of Education for International Understanding (APCEIU) in the Republic of Korea, as presented in document 202 EX/18 Part I Add.2, and the

202 EX/SR.1-12 page 2 – SR.1

second entitled “Establishment in China of an Associated Schools Project network (ASPnet) international centre”.

2.2 Regarding item 26 “Nomination of a candidate for the post of Director-General of UNESCO”, he recalled that the Board had rejected, at its 196th session, a proposal to amend Rules 54.1 and 58.3 of its Rules of Procedure, which would have moved the entire voting process from private to public meetings. The first round of voting to nominate a candidate would therefore take place at a private meeting to be held immediately after the plenary meeting that afternoon. In the event of a failure to secure a definitive result at that meeting, another private meeting could be held after the plenary meeting the following afternoon, on 10 October, followed, if necessary, by further private meetings at 6.30 p.m. on 11 October, 12 October and/or 13 October. Furthermore, at the second meeting of the Bureau, on Friday 6 October, the Vice-Chairpersons for Groups I and II had, in the interest of ensuring the transparency and accuracy of information in an age of advanced communications, proposed that the results of each round of voting should be announced in plenary after each private meeting, contrary to the customary practice, under Rule 29.2 of the Rules of Procedure, of only announcing the final result at a public meeting. In the absence of any objections, he would take it that the Board wished to endorse the proposal, in which case the interim results would also be communicated to all Member States in writing, by e-mail.

3. The representative of Nigeria, pointing out that she had not previously been informed of the proposal to announce the results of each round of voting at a public meeting, requested more time to consider it in consultation with the other Members in Group V (a).

4. La representante de Nicaragua dice que la propuesta le genera cierto temor y merece ser tratada con detenimiento, por lo que suscribe la petición de Nigeria.

(4) The representative of Nicaragua said that she had some worries regarding the proposal, which should be considered carefully, and therefore endorsed the request of Nigeria.

5. The representative of Malaysia, speaking in his capacity as Vice-Chairperson for Group IV, added his voice to those requesting more time to consider the proposal.

6.1 The Chairperson agreed to defer a decision on the matter until the Board reconvened for the plenary meeting that afternoon in order to allow the Vice-Chairpersons of Groups III, IV and V (a) to consult with their respective members. Furthermore, he had been informed by the Legal Adviser that she saw no legal objections to the proposal.

6.2. Recalling that the candidatures of Mr Juan Alfonso Fuentes Soria (Guatemala) and Mr Saleh Al-Hasnawi (Iraq) had been withdrawn by their respective Governments, the Chairperson said that there were now a total of seven candidates for the post of Director-General and he urged all those participating in the election process to proceed with discretion and serenity.

7. La représentante du Maroc demande la suppression, dans l’ordre du jour, du point 18 Partie XII « Établissement, au Maroc, d’un centre pour la protection du patrimoine urbain dans la région arabe », indiquant que son pays a besoin de plus de temps pour donner suite à cette proposition.

8. The Chairperson said that, in the absence of any objections, he would take it that the Board wished to adopt the revised provisional agenda and timetable of work contained in document 202 EX/1 Prov. Rev., as amended by the representative of Morocco.

9. It was so decided.

Questions that do not appear to require debate

10. The Chairperson informed the Board that the Bureau was recommending that there be no debate on the following items and sub-items and that the Programme and External Relations (PX) and the Finance and Administrative (FA) Commissions proceed directly to the consideration of the related draft decisions: 4.I “Programme execution”; 5.I.B “UNESCO’s role as a UNAIDS co-sponsor and strategy on education for health and well-being”; 5.I.F “Report by the Director-General on UNESCO’s participation in the international celebrations of the 150th anniversary of the periodic table of chemical elements in 2019”; 5.I.I “Revised Bylaws of the International Alliance for the Protection of Heritage in Conflict Areas (ALIPH)”; 5.I.J “Proposed strategy and action plan to protect and strengthen brand recognition of biosphere reserves, World Heritage sites and UNESCO Global Geoparks”; 5.II “Periodic report on Internal Oversight Service (IOS) evaluations”; 5.III.D “UNESCO Security and Safety Action Plan”; 12 “Report on the implementation of the International Decade for the Rapprochement of Cultures (2013–2022)”; 14 “Report on the implementation of the Information for All Programme (IFAP) (2016–2017)”; 16 “Renewal of UNESCO Prizes”; 18 “Category 2 institutes and centres”; 34 “Report by the Director-General, in cooperation with the Headquarters Committee, on managing the UNESCO complex”; 35 “Report by the Director-General on the activities of the Advisory Committee for Works of Art”; 36 “Proposals for the celebration of anniversaries with which UNESCO could be associated in 2018–2019, and appeals by Member States concerning their proposals”; 40 “Association of UNESCO to the International Union of Architects (UIA) initiative to nominate the UIA World Congress host cities as World Capitals of Architecture”; 42 “The Memory of Ice: A Challenge for the Future”; 43 “Proposal for the proclamation by the United Nations of 2019 as International Year of the Periodic Table of Chemical Elements”; and 45 “Affirming UNESCO’s role in sustainable tourism for development”.

11. The representative of Nigeria, supported by the representatives of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Brazil, noted the absence from the list of questions that did not appear to require debate of item 44 “UNESCO’s role in promoting literacy within the framework of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”, even though the Board, at its previous intersessional meeting, had agreed, after some discussion, that it should be included, and therefore proposed including it in the list.

٢١اقرتاح نيجرييا، مشريا إىل أن مناقشات اجتماع مصرأيد ممثل ١٢ عىاسرت مثأيلول/سبتمرب تناولت مسألة اعتماد مشروع القرار دون نقاش.

ك البند، شأن ذلاالنتباه إىل أن اسم مصر سقط سهوا يف الوثيقة اليت وزعت بأن ، وطلبدول اليت اقرتحت مشروع القرارمشريا إىل أن مصر كانت من ال

يعدل ذلك.(12) The representative of Egypt supported the proposal by Nigeria, noting that the proceedings of the meeting of 21 September had concerned adopting the

202 EX/SR.1-12 page 3 – SR.1

draft decision without debate. He drew attention to the fact that “Egypt” had inadvertently been omitted from the document distributed concerning that item, and said that Egypt had been one of the sponsors of the draft decision, and requested that that be amended.

13. The Chairperson said that, in the absence of any objections, he would take it that the Board wished to include item 44 in the list of questions not appearing to require debate.


Agendas of the Finance and Administrative (FA) and Programme and External Relations (PX) Commissions

15. The Chairperson, after summarizing the work undertaken the previous week by the Committee on Conventions and Recommendations (CR) and the Special Committee (SP), informed the Board of the dates, venues and chairpersons of the meetings at the current session of the Finance and Administrative (FA) and Programme and External Relations (PX) Commissions, as well as the joint meeting of the Commissions. The Bureau, at its third meeting, on Friday 13 October, would review the progress made over the course of the week and decide whether it was necessary to extend the current session by an additional working day, to Thursday 19 October.

Items on which the UNESCO Staff Union (STU) and the International Staff Association of UNESCO (ISAU) have requested to speak in the Finance and Administrative Commission (FA)

16. The Chairperson informed the Board that the UNESCO Staff Union (STU) and the International Staff Association of UNESCO (ISAU) had requested permission to take the floor during the debates in the Finance and Administrative Commission (FA) on item 5.IV “Follow-up to decisions and resolutions adopted by the Executive Board and the General Conference at their previous sessions – Human resources issues”, and that ISAU had also requested permission to take the floor on items 5.III.F “Report on the implementation on invest for Efficient Delivery” and 34 “Report by the Director-General, in cooperation with the Headquarters Committee, on managing the UNESCO complex”. The Bureau recommended that the Board should, as in the past, authorize the representatives of the staff associations to speak for five minutes each, after Members had expressed their views on the subjects in question but before the adoption of the related decisions and resolutions.


Organization of the plenary debate

18. The Chairperson informed the Board that the Director-General would introduce the debate in plenary on item 4 “Execution of the programme adopted by the General Conference”, item 5 “Follow-up to decisions and resolutions adopted by the Executive Board and the General Conference at their previous sessions” and item 19 “Draft Programme and Budget for 2018–2021 (39 C/5)”. The plenary debate would begin immediately after the Director-General’s introduction and continue the following morning, on Tuesday 10 October. Each Member inscribed on the list of speakers would be allowed a maximum speaking time of six minutes and observers would each be allowed two minutes for their statements. A

musical signal would be sounded when the speaker had one minute of his or her allotted time remaining and the microphone and interpretation would be cut after that time had elapsed. In the question-and-answer session following the Director-General’s reply, in the afternoon of Tuesday 10 October, Members would be invited to limit their statements to three minutes and the number of questions to three at a time, with observers each being allowed one minute for their statements. The Director-General would answer the questions put by Member States three at a time.

Private meetings

19. The Chairperson informed the Board that, in addition to the private meeting scheduled for the nomination of a candidate to the post of Director-General under item 26, a further private meeting would be held on Tuesday 17 October to discuss items 3 “Report by the Director-General on the application of Rule 59 of the Rules of Procedure of the Executive Board” and 33 “Appointment by the Executive Board of the Chairperson and the Alternate Chairperson of the Appeals Board”, and to adopt the report of the Committee on Conventions and Recommendations (CR) on item 23 “Examination of the communications transmitted to the Committee on Conventions and Recommendations in pursuance of 104 EX/Decision 3.3, and report of the Committee thereon”.

Item 2: Approval of the summary records of the 201st session (201 EX/SR.1-11)

20. The Chairperson recalled that the provisional summary records of the public meetings of the Executive Board at its 201st session had been prepared by the Secretariat and submitted to Members, with a request to provide any corrections to the Secretariat. If he heard no objection, he would take it that the Board wished to approve the final version of the summary records contained in document 201 EX/SR.1-11 Prov.


REPORTING ITEMS

Item 4: Execution of the programme adopted by the General Conference

Item 4.I: Programme execution (202 EX/4.INF; 202 EX/4.INF.3)

Item 4.II: Budgetary situation of the Organization for 2016–2017 (38 C/5 Approved as adjusted) as at 30 June 2017, Budget adjustments arising from donations and special contributions received and Management Chart for Programme Execution in 2016-2017 (38 C/5 Approved as adjusted) Status as at 30 June 2017 (202 EX/4 Part II; 202 EX/4.INF.2)

Item 5: Follow-up to decisions and resolutions adopted by the Executive Board and the General Conference at their previous sessions

Item 5.I: Programme issues (202 EX/5 Part I)

Item 5.II: Evaluation issues (202 EX/5 Part II Rev.)

Item 5.III: Management issues (202 EX/5 Part III)

Item 5.IV: Human resources issues (202 EX/5 Part IV and Addenda)

202 EX/SR.1-12 page 4 – SR.1

PROGRAMMING AND BUDGETING

Item 19: Draft Programme and Budget for 2018-2021 (39 C/5) (Draft 39 C/5; 202 EX/19; 202 EX/19.INF)

Introduction by the Director-General to the plenary debate

22.1 The Director-General in extenso: Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Mr President of the General Conference, distinguished representatives on the Executive Board, let me start by expressing my condolences once again, as Director-General and on behalf of the Organization, to those countries and societies that have suffered devastating hurricanes and earthquakes, as well as floods, in the Caribbean, in Central America, in the United States of America and in Asia. The tragic loss of life and biodiversity and property reminds us of the vulnerabilities that all societies share in the face of natural disasters and highlights all the more the solidarity that the world needs today.

22.2 As this is my last session of the Executive Board as Director-General, I might say that I address you with a strong note of emotion. I recall the many sessions that I have attended and I remember the interventions of so many Permanent Delegates. Most of all, I stand with you today imbued with a profound sense of responsibility and urgency: responsibility to UNESCO itself, to the values and objectives that underpin its action, and the urgency to strengthen the Organization in a challenging context. I assumed office in November 2009 and I leave next month guided by the same absolute conviction that the “soft power” of UNESCO has never been so important, that this Organization, which was created in the last century, has never been so relevant today in a new century, with a renewed mandate to build peace in the minds of women and men, to sustain that peace, to eradicate poverty and to achieve sustainable development in implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. The world has changed since 1945 but the idea inspiring UNESCO remains true. This is the idea that peace must start with the rights and dignity of individual women and men; this is the idea that progress has no meaning if it is not shared, if poverty endures, if girls and women remain abused and if violence continues to tear societies apart; this is the idea that education, culture, the sciences, communication and information are pathways to dialogue, renewal, reconciliation, development, social inclusion and peace; this is why the Organization is acting on the front lines today; and this is what we have seen across the world since the last session of the Executive Board.

22.3 Safeguarding the cultural heritage is flagship UNESCO work. The 41st session of the World Heritage Committee in Krakow (Poland) was an outstanding success, and I thank the Government of Poland for its support. Polish experts have finalized the restoration of the Lion of al-Lāt, the iconic sculpture of the museum of Palmyra destroyed by violent extremists, with the support of UNESCO's Emergency Safeguarding of the Syrian Heritage project funded by the European Union, for which I am deeply grateful. This testifies to UNESCO’s outstanding role in protecting the heritage in times of conflict and to the success of UNESCO's campaign to integrate culture into peacebuilding, as embodied also in the Strategy for the reinforcement of UNESCO’s action for the protection of culture and the promotion of cultural pluralism in the event of armed conflict and the

“Unite4Heritage” task force that we established with the Government of ltaly in 2016. This is the meaning of the work of ltaly’s carabinieri in Erbil, Iraq, and I hope that this joint work will continue. This is the meaning of the Council of Europe’s new convention on the criminalization of illicit trafficking and destruction of cultural goods, inspired by the standards set by UNESCO. This is the message that I brought to the 2017 Blue Shield General Assembly in Vienna last month, and to the meeting of the Global Consortium for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage, co-chaired by Yale and Bocconi universities just two weeks ago. This was the flag raised at the high-level event on "Protecting cultural heritage from terrorism and mass atrocities", held in New York on 21 September, in which I was honoured to participate with the Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Angelino Alfano; the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Ms Frederica Mogherini; and the Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Mr Yury Fedotov. Ms Mogherini announced that culture experts would be integrated into all future European Union missions, which reflects a growing recognition of the links between culture and security and peace, and I congratulate the European Union on that decision. Another important step in our “Unite4Heritage” campaign and in protecting heritage in conflict situations is that today, I will sign an agreement with the State Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, to cooperate in protecting the cultural heritage in such situations; and I would say that more widely, ladies and gentlemen, UNESCO will continue to lead in the implementation of United Nations Security Council resolutions 2199 (2015), on the trafficking of cultural objects and its impact on peace and security and the financing of terrorism, and 2347 (2017), on the protection of heritage; and I would add that the more recent Security Council resolution 2379 (2017), adopted during the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly in September and relating once again to Iraq and fighting Daesh, shows how deeply this advocacy to protect culture has become integrated into the global agenda.

22.4 Education, ladies and gentlemen, is another global flagship programme. UNESCO has forged ahead with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality education), leading consultations across the regions and holding the SDG-Education 2030 Steering Committee meeting in June in New York, back-to-back with the High-Level SDG Action Event on Education organized by the President of the 71st session of the United Nations General Assembly, Mr Peter Thomson. UNESCO’s strategic framework for education in emergencies in the Arab region (2018-2021) will provide guidance to work across the region and to frame country plans with Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Syrian Arab Republic and Yemen, including a focus on internally displaced persons and refugees. With UNESCO's engagement and advocacy for attention to youth, the Education Cannot Wait fund has taken off, mobilizing resources and political leadership to bridge the divide between humanitarian action and development efforts. The world saw a powerful commitment to bridging the financial gaps to reach the education goals at the high-level event on “Financing the future: Education 2030” at the 72nd session of the General Assembly in New York, on 20 September, with Secretary-General António Guterres, the heads of State of France, Malawi, Norway and Senegal, as well as Mr Gordon Brown, the United Nation Special Envoy for Global Education and Chairperson of the International Commission on Financing Global Education Opportunity. Within this context,

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empowering girls and women remains a sharp focus of our work. With the Government of Thailand, we organized the International Symposium and Policy Forum in Bangkok, from 28 to 30 August, where I personally launched the new report entitled Cracking the code: Girls’ and women's education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Last month, on the margins of the ninth BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) summit, I was honoured to award the UNESCO Prize for Girls' and Women's Education, with Professor Peng Liyuan, First Lady of China and UNESCO Special Envoy for the Advancement of Girls’ and Women’s Education, to outstanding laureates from Thailand and Peru, and to give a special mention to another important project from South Africa. Identifying and developing skills for the twenty-first century has never been so vital. ln July, UNESCO, China and Germany organized the International Conference on Technical and Vocational Education and Training in Tangshan, China, followed by the International Forum on ICT and Education 2030 in Qingdao, co-organized by UNESCO and China, with the Wei Dong Group. This is also why UNESCO is supporting the new Youth Skills and Innovation Commission, led by Intel and the Global Business Coalition for Education. Let me also thank the Government of Slovenia for its outstanding leadership in regard to the 2nd World Open Educational Resources (OER) Congress, in Ljubljana last month, which produced the Ljubljana OER Action Plan.

22.5 Across the world, ladies and gentlemen, UNESCO continues to defend freedom of expression and journalists' safety. The celebration of World Press Freedom Day in Jakarta, and I would like to pay special tribute to the Government of Indonesia, broke new records for which, again, I am grateful to all the participants; and, in this context, allow me to thank the Government of Ghana for inviting us to host a major conference for the 2018 World Press Freedom Day, which, in a sense, marks a return to Africa after the ground-breaking UNESCO summit in Windhoek, which I discussed over the weekend with the Deputy Minister of Communications and Spokesperson of the Government of Ghana. ln June, UNESCO led a multi-stakeholder consultation in Geneva, Switzerland, on Strengthening the Implementation of the United Nations Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of impunity, to coordinate stronger action across the United Nations system. This year, the International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC) event “IPDC Talks” explored the importance of access to information to the 2030 Agenda, and I wish to thank the Governments of Finland, Lithuania and the Netherlands for their leadership and support.

22.6 ln July, the Sixth International Conference of Ministers and Senior Officials Responsible for Physical Education and Sport (MINEPS VI), held in the Russian Federation, adopted the Kazan Action Plan to strengthen cooperation in vital fields, and I would like to thank the Government of the Russian Federation and also Tatarstan for their support.

22.7 The World Humanities Conference in August explored the contribution of the humanities to shaping a changing world, and I am grateful to the Government of Belgium. The Fourth World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, held in Azerbaijan in May, highlighted the importance of intercultural dialogue in an age of increasing diversity and globalization. The power of intercultural dialogue was emblematically expressed also during the

celebrations of International Jazz Day in Havana this year, for which I am deeply grateful.

22.8 UNESCO is strengthening action across the sectors to prevent violent extremism. ln April, we released a new guidance tool, Preventing violent extremism through education: A guide for policy-makers. ln May, UNESCO's Information for All Programme (IFAP) and the Lebanon National Commission for UNESCO held an international conference in Lebanon on “Youth and ICT: Towards countering violent extremism in cyberspace”. ln Senegal, UNESCO is bolstering the role of journalists and the media in preventing violent extremism in West Africa and the Sahel. On 23 May I was deeply honoured to visit, with His Majesty King Mohammed VI of Morocco, Al Quaraouiyine University as well as three newly renovated madrasas, part of the broader renovation of the Medina of Fez, a UNESCO world heritage site. The Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development is building capacity for educators and policymakers through innovative approaches, and I was honoured to attend a workshop there in August. The Asia-Pacific Centre of Education for International Understanding in Seoul has led a second capacity-building workshop on global citizenship education, including an emphasis on preventing violent extremism.

22.9 Empowering young women and men remains a key focus. This is the importance of UNESCO's NET-MED Youth Programme around the Mediterranean and the international event on “Creating the future of the Mediterranean” last month in Brussels, with the European Union and young voices from the region. This was the focus also of the successful Seventh International Forum of NGOs in Official Partnership with UNESCO, on the theme “Youth and their social impact”, hosted by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz and his MiSK foundation in Riyadh in May, which I was honoured also to attend, with more than 400 non-governmental organizations and over 2,100 delegates from more than 70 countries; it is the first time the event has been held in the Arab region.

22.10 Ladies and gentlemen, science for sustainable development remains a top priority. The United Nations Conference to Support the Implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development was ground-breaking, highlighting the leadership of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission for achieving that Goal, including in regard to a proposed international decade on ocean science for sustainable development. The Conference, held at United Nations Headquarters in New York at the beginning of June, saw more than 20 examples of the participation of UNESCO on the different subjects, with many side events showing where UNESCO has been leading the field, such as in science for the oceans, education for sustainable development, ocean literacy and many, many others. UNESCO is supporting countries in building science, technology and innovation policy frameworks, including through cooperation with the Islamic Development Bank, and we will launch the new open access Global Observatory of Science, Technology and Innovation Policy Instruments (GO-SPIN) platform early next year.

22.11 All this, I believe, shows the “soft power” of UNESCO’s action. “Soft power” was the theme of the high-level conference in June on “Fostering women's empowerment and leadership”, with participants including Her Excellency Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, President of

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Malta, Her Excellency Amal Al Qubaisi, President of the Federal National Council of the United Arab Emirates, Her Excellency Ruia Ghani, First Lady of Afghanistan, and Her Excellency Tarja Halonen, former President of Finland. I would highlight also soft power as the vision underpinning the Transform Africa Summit 2017, held on 10 May in Kigali, which emphasized the importance of investing in people to build smart cities through education, skills and lifelong learning, together with the role of culture and creative industries for job creation, innovation and social cohesion.

22.12 Ladies and gentlemen, at the same time I have been determined to continue root-and-branch reform to streamline processes and sharpen the delivery of UNESCO. This has meant completing all “unfinished business”, starting with follow-up to the recommendations of the External Auditor and the internal recommendations of the Internal Oversight Service (IOS), of which 80 % are today closed, and implementing a robust risk management and control framework, including acceleration of the enterprise risk management action plan, which I believe to be essential to effective internal operations and programme delivery. This is also the importance of the structured financing dialogues – to identify strategic opportunities for mobilization and to illustrate UNESCO's strength as a key partner of Member States and donors. Allow me to express my deep gratitude to, and to congratulate, the Chairperson of the Finance and Administrative Commission (FA), Ambassador Sol de Pool, for the positive consultations and the hard work on the budget preparations, which I have no doubt will lead to constructive debates in the Commission during this session of the Board and the next session of the General Conference. I believe that all these are strong steps forward, but allow me to be clear: we advance in all these ways, at all these levels, while facing challenging financial constraints. The cash-flow situation, in particular, is impacting across all the Organization – it is impacting on our positioning and it is impacting on our delivery. This, I believe, cannot go on – the Organization cannot continue on a wing and a prayer. Allow me to explain where the Organization stands today; and if I do so it is because at the last session, the 201st session, the Executive Board endorsed the proposals for immediate contingency measures to achieve a maximum of $50 million cost reductions to the budget for the current biennium from July 2017. I am determined not to hand over an unsustainable cash-flow situation to the future Director-General – I think that it would be highly irresponsible on my part – which is why I decided that the Organization should not envisage internal and external borrowing. Following a broad-based assessment by the Risk Management Committee and the Senior Management Team, it became clear that imposing $50 million cuts would mean stopping most programmes and activities immediately, with severe consequences. ln that light I tasked a working group, under the Deputy Director-General, to develop a phased approach. The first phase was implemented in July 2017 by freezing an amount of $15 million and I launched the second phase, a $5 million freeze, from 1 October. I take this opportunity to thank all the Member States that have made efforts to meet their commitments. ln document 202 EX/31, I made a commitment to advise the Executive Board on the impact of the potential worst-case scenario where the three Member States in the top 25 contributors currently in arrears did not meet their obligations by the end of 2017 and delays persisted beyond the end of 2018. Having still had no commitment today on payment dates, I must underline a considerable cash-flow risk that will arise

should delays continue in the payment of assessed contributions. lt is my view that the situation calls for a strategic decision by the Executive Board and the General Conference, a decision that may take the shape of a detailed contingency plan for the first year covered by document 39 C/5, that is 2018. ln that case, in accordance with the decision of the Executive Board (201 EX/Decision 25.II), the next Director-General would submit to the 204th session of the Board a detailed contingency plan with a clear roadmap. Allow me to be very frank. I do not think that the current situation can continue. We all have our responsibilities towards the Organization. Together we have led deep changes in the Organization over the past eight years. We have turned over every stone; we have altered processes; we have strengthened accountability and transparency; we have reduced bureaucracy; we have strengthened risk management; we have rationalized and streamlined; we have led a redeployment plan; and now we must do much more.

(The Director-General continues in French)

22.13 Mesdames et Messieurs, l’enjeu budgétaire est réel, mais il n'est que le symptôme visible d'un défi plus profond. Ce qui est en jeu, c'est notre capacité collective à concilier les intérêts nationaux et l'intérêt commun. C'est notre capacité collective à décider des priorités de l'Organisation. L'article premier de notre Acte constitutif stipule clairement que « L'Organisation se propose de contribuer au maintien de la paix et de la sécurité en resserrant (...) la collaboration entre nations. » L'éducation, la science, la culture, la communication sont des moyens, des outils. À travers le monde, des dizaines d'organisations, des milliers d'ONG et d'experts à tous les niveaux s'occupent de préserver le patrimoine, d’innover pour l'éducation, de faire avancer la recherche scientifique. Notre rôle, notre devoir, c’est d’utiliser la coopération culturelle, éducative, scientifique, pour trouver des terrains d’entente, mettre en lumière des valeurs communes. Plus particulièrement, notre rôle, notre devoir consiste à utiliser nos programmes phares – sur le patrimoine mondial, culturel et naturel, immatériel, documentaire – comme des forums de dialogue, de compréhension mutuelle. Nous devons le réaffirmer davantage, car tout le reste – nos moyens, nos priorités – en découlent.

22.14 Au cours des années récentes, nous avons permis l'aboutissement de programmes transfrontaliers, multipays, qui ont marqué l’histoire, tels que l’inscription du réseau de routes andin – le Qhapac Ñan – au Patrimoine mondial de l'UNESCO, au terme d’un processus de près de 10 ans rassemblant six pays d'Amérique latine unis pour le patrimoine dans un projet à l’échelle d'un continent entier. L'inauguration en Jordanie, après plus de 20 ans d'efforts, du centre de recherche SESAME (Centre international de rayonnement synchrotron pour les sciences expérimentales et appliquées au Moyen-Orient) où travaillent côte à côte des scientifiques jordaniens, chypriotes, égyptiens, iraniens, israéliens, pakistanais, palestiniens et turcs, en est un autre exemple.

22.15 Je pense à notre rôle intellectuel de laboratoire d'idées pour le développement de concepts fédérateurs, comme l'éducation en vue du développement durable ou l'éducation à la citoyenneté mondiale, qui ont nourri la réflexion et l'adoption de l'Objectif de développement durable 4, « Assurer à tous une éducation équitable, inclusive et de qualité et des possibilités d'apprentissage

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tout au long de la vie ». Je pense aussi à la mise en œuvre du Cadre d'action – Éducation 2030, lancé dès novembre 2015 pour définir des politiques éducatives en adéquation avec l'ODD 4. Je pense à la Décennie de l’alphabétisation, autre initiative de l’UNESCO. Nous venons également de constituer une Alliance mondiale pour l’alphabétisation dans le cadre de l’apprentissage tout au long de la vie et je reviens justement d’Abidjan, en Côte d’Ivoire, où se tenait une cérémonie en faveur de l’alphabétisation. Notre force est d’imposer des idées innovatrices dans nos domaines de compétence.

22.16 Hier, nous mobilisions des grues géantes pour le démontage des Temples d'Abou Simbel, et des dizaines d'États pour le sauvetage du temple d'Angkor. Aujourd'hui, nous avons reconstruit les mausolées de Tombouctou et transformé le paysage politique mondial en ce qui concerne la protection du patrimoine, intégrant pour la première fois cette question dans les résolutions du Conseil de sécurité et contribuant à la condamnation des criminels de guerre avec la Cour pénale internationale. Sous l’impulsion de l’UNESCO, la Cour pénale va adopter une nouvelle politique dans le domaine de la protection du patrimoine. Cela illustre également notre rôle comme laboratoire d’idées et comme force mobilisatrice dans le cadre de notre mandat et de notre Acte constitutif. Nous menons la mise en œuvre du Plan de travail pour la sécurité des journalistes et la question de l'impunité et, grâce à notre Organisation, toutes les mers du monde sont aujourd'hui couvertes par un système d'alerte rapide aux tsunamis. Voilà où l'UNESCO fait la preuve de sa valeur ajoutée.

22.17 Il s’agit de projets au long cours, qui mobilisent les États sur plusieurs années, au nom d'un objectif qui nous dépasse tous, à l’instar des bâtisseurs des cathédrales et des temples. Si l'on examine ces programmes phares, l'UNESCO n'est pas en crise : au contraire, elle est au rendez-vous de son histoire. Et l'UNESCO est clairement visible et reconnue, cela ne fait aucun doute : chaque jour, en moyenne, le nom de l'UNESCO est cité plus d'un millier de fois dans les médias du monde entier. Notre campagne #UnisPourLePatrimoine a été suivie et relayée 114 millions de fois sur Twitter depuis le début de l'année – référence absolue de toutes les conversations internet sur le patrimoine.

22.18 Le problème, c'est que l’état actuel de nos moyens a réduit notre capacité à mener des programmes qui, tout en étant importants, ne sont pas dans notre cœur de métier. Nous avons dû en réduire l'éventail – en philosophie et en bioéthique, par exemple – et nous avons atteint, y compris dans certains secteurs clés comme les réserves de biosphère, la préservation des sites naturels, la lutte contre le trafic illicite, la protection du patrimoine immatériel, un point limite. Je vous l'ai dit et j'ai communiqué toutes les données chiffrées au cours de nombreuses réunions d'information. Toute la documentation est sur la table en toute transparence. J'ai fait tout ce qui était en mon pouvoir pour diminuer la bureaucratie, réduire les coûts et maximiser l'impact de l'UNESCO, compte tenu des moyens disponibles, y compris en augmentant les financements extrabudgétaires et en mobilisant de nouveaux donateurs, et je saisis cette occasion pour saluer et remercier très chaleureusement l’Union européenne, qui est devenue ces dernières années un acteur incontournable en matière de financement de nos programmes extrabudgétaires, auxquels elle a contribué à hauteur de plus de 100

millions de dollars. Bien d’autres pays ont également augmenté leurs contributions extrabudgétaires. J'appelle à nouveau tous les États membres à franchir un pas supplémentaire, alors que la période qui s'ouvre est propice à des choix stratégiques et radicaux, parce que rien ne peut remplacer le financement budgétaire.

22.19 Je sais que les débats sur la gouvernance des Conventions se poursuivent et j'invite à saisir cette occasion pour mener une discussion ouverte, qui soit vraiment tournée vers l'avenir et axée sur la fonction que ces Conventions exercent pour la paix. Nous devons nous concentrer sur ce qui nous distingue et ce qui nous unit. Nous avons besoin de davantage de coordination et j'appelle les États membres à renforcer leur coordination afin de parler d'une même voix, à Paris et à New York. La réforme de l'UNESCO n'a de sens que si elle s'inscrit dans le cadre de la réforme des Nations Unies – que nous avons d'ailleurs anticipée sur de nombreux points, comme la transparence, la gestion des risques, la parité, sujets sur lesquels l'UNESCO est en pointe. Nous avons besoin d'une répartition claire des rôles et responsabilités de chaque organe directeur, car plus le budget de l'UNESCO se réduit, plus le risque de micro-gestion est grand, alors qu’il est impératif que les États membres tracent des perspectives de long terme et tranchent les sujets.

22.20 Mesdames et Messieurs, à chaque tournant de l'histoire de notre Maison, nous devons nous replonger dans l'Acte constitutif de l'UNESCO, le texte fondateur qui porte en lui ce souffle visionnaire, humaniste, d'un projet universel pour la paix. Ce projet n'a pas pris une ride. Ce qu'il nous faut, c'est dire en quoi l'UNESCO est pertinente aujourd'hui, quels sont ses atouts, sa valeur ajoutée, comment son action s'inscrit dans le cadre global. Tout ce que j’ai appelé « nouvel humanisme ». C'est pourquoi j'ai voulu recentrer l'UNESCO sur ses fonctions d'institution du « soft power ». Pour l’innovation, l'éducation et la connaissance au service du développement durable. Pour la culture, la compréhension mutuelle au service de la paix et de la prévention de l'extrémisme violent.

22.21 Après une décennie 2000-2010 consacrée à l'élaboration d'un appareil normatif unique au monde sous l'impulsion de mon prédécesseur, M. Koïchiro Matsuura, à qui j’exprime mon profond respect pour sa contribution à cette mission, j'ai voulu renforcer la mise en œuvre, et développer des outils de suivi des résultats, pour répondre plus rapidement à des situations d'urgence, en cas de conflits – lesquels se sont multipliés ces huit dernières années – et de catastrophes naturelles. J'ai mis l'accent sur les outils opérationnels pour l’application de la Convention de 1970, ce qui n'avait jamais été fait, de même que pour l’application de la Convention de 2005 dans le domaine du numérique ou de la sécurité des journalistes. J'ai mis l'accent sur les capacités, notamment avec le programme phare CapED – tout spécialement en Afrique, avec un effort accru sur les compétences et la formation pour l'emploi. Nous avons lancé de nouvelles idées, de nouveaux concepts qui correspondent aux évolutions du monde actuel : l'éducation à la citoyenneté mondiale, les géoparcs, les Recommandations concernant le paysage urbain historique ou la protection et la promotion des musées et des collections, de leur diversité et de leur rôle dans la société. Nous avons considérablement développé le Réseau des villes créatives et renforcé les outils pour la protection du patrimoine et la lutte contre l'extrémisme violent.

22.22 Je veux conclure avec ce que je considère comme ma priorité personnelle : l’égalité des genres. J'ai

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réalisé, dans le domaine de l'égalité des genres et de l’autonomisation des femmes, la parité hommes/femmes au niveau de l’équipe de direction, et nous avons été les premiers, au sein du système des Nations Unies, à traiter spécifiquement de cet enjeu dans nos rapports thématiques et dans notre action thématique : avec le Rapport mondial sur la mise en valeur des ressources en eau des Nations Unies dont le premier chapitre est dédié à l'égalité des genres, avec le premier rapport spécialement consacré aux violences faites aux femmes journalistes, en 2011 ; avec le premier rapport entièrement consacré à l’égalité des genres, au patrimoine et à la créativité ; avec le premier rapport consacré aux inégalités hommes/femmes dans l'accès au numérique publié par la Commission « Le large bande au service du développement durable », créée par l’UNESCO et l’Union internationale des télécommunications ; et avec de nombreuses plates-formes pour l'éducation des filles, les initiatives STEAM pour l’accès de toutes au savoir scientifique, des indicateurs spécifiques par genres dans les statistiques de l'éducation dans le Rapport mondial de suivi sur l’éducation.

22.23 Voilà notamment comment l'UNESCO, concrètement, enrichit la connaissance des sujets, avec des données nouvelles, des idées nouvelles, pour des politiques publiques plus performantes. Les résultats sont réels. Ils sont le fruit d'une décision stratégique de l’Organisation, qui est de se focaliser sur des objectifs précis, d’être plus proche du terrain et plus proche des autres entités du système des Nations Unies. Nous avons transformé l'UNESCO sur ce point, et obtenu des résultats significatifs, en nous intégrant pleinement dans le Programme 2030, en pilotant plusieurs initiatives mondiales pour le compte des Nations Unies, en partageant notre savoir-faire et notre vision avec l’ensemble du système des Nations Unies, y compris avec le Conseil de sécurité. Je suis convaincue que l'UNESCO est idéalement placée pour répondre aux défis multiples de la lutte contre la radicalisation des jeunes, de la prévention de l'extrémisme violent, de la défense de la dignité et des droits humains car c'est une bataille qui se joue précisément dans l'esprit des hommes et des femmes, c'est une bataille culturelle et éducative. Là réside exactement le soft power de l’UNESCO. L’UNESCO a été créée pour cela, et ce n'est pas un hasard si elle a été classée première des 14 entités des Nations Unies qui mènent des projets de prévention de l’extrémisme violent, selon une cartographie interne établie en mai dernier lors d’une réunion du groupe d’action dans ce domaine, et si 83 États membres ont rejoint nos consultations sur le dossier de l'éducation à la citoyenneté mondiale, soit une augmentation de 51 % par rapport à 2012.

22.24 Ces progrès témoignent de la pertinence de l'UNESCO, non seulement comme « conscience de l'humanité », mais bien comme acteur engagé, capable d'offrir des solutions concrètes, tangibles, aux problèmes des peuples, y compris dans l'urgence. Aussi permettez-moi de partager avec vous le sentiment de la gravité du moment où nous sommes, qui impose aux États membres l’adoption de décisions qui engagent l'avenir. Permettez-moi également d’exprimer ma joie sereine devant le travail accompli et devant l'immense potentiel qui s'ouvre à nous, un immense potentiel pour notre grande Maison qui a tant contribué à la paix, au développement durable et à tout ce que j’ai désigné sous le terme de nouvel humanisme.

23. Le Président remercie la Directrice générale de son ultime présentation des activités menées par le Secrétariat.

Plenary debate

24.1 Oman in extenso: Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General, Excellencies, on behalf of the Sultanate of Oman I would like to emphasize three vitally important messages: the importance of leadership, the need for accountability and, finally, the reaffirmation of our shared commitment to sustainable development. We, as responsible and accountable Member States, are at an important crossroads and the decisions that we make at this session will pave the way for robust and evidence-based resolutions to be made during the upcoming session of the General Conference. Thus, we have a number of critical choices to make that will ultimately influence the future of our Organization.

24.2 At the same time we are approaching the vital juncture of electing a new Director-General. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the outgoing Director-General for her leadership. While her convictions were full of drive, with clear ideas, reform within the Organization nevertheless continues to move at a gradual pace due to drastic budget cuts and laissez-faire decision-making processes. Therefore, the incoming Director-General must show determination to strengthen communication as well as to address the financial impediments facing UNESCO. Accordingly, we need to reiterate the need for sharper resolutions and meticulous decision-making for the Organization. Hence, it is vital that we elect a leader who can demonstrate impeccable leadership qualities of dialogue, strength and audacity, with resilience and resourcefulness, and who is capable of making proactive changes to ensure the continuing relevance of the Organization. Equally, proficiency in meeting the challenges of austerity and proving value for money must be confirmed. As well as sound leadership skills, we must recognize the need for transparency to ensure accountability in each decision-making process.

24.3 All over the globe we are witnessing examples of escalating violence, horrific hatred and sometimes blind intolerance. But none of this is innate. Intolerance and disharmony are based on ignorance, on prejudices that are taught, in minds that have not been trained to think critically. This is why quality education is so crucial and why the core mandate of UNESCO is so urgently needed. Values of dialogue, understanding, diversity and inclusion are essential to build peaceful, sustainable and harmonious societies, and it is the responsibility of UNESCO to ensure that those values are promoted, implemented and preserved. They must include transparency, accountability, good governance, an evaluation culture and, above all else, strong ethical standards. These principles ought to be a common yardstick, embodied by the whole Organization, up to the highest levels, because nobody is above them.

24.4 Finally, one of the major aspects of UNESCO’s delivery is sustainable development. Therefore, at this session we are presenting an item on sustainable tourism. We hope that it will contribute, in its own way, to reinforcing some of the existing values of UNESCO: sustainability, respect for the environment and the heritage, as well as cultural dialogue. Indeed, UNESCO is committed to sustainability in all its aspects, especially in heritage preservation, which is beneficial to both

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tourism and cultural awareness. The preservation and development of local communities, as well as the protection of the natural and cultural heritage are crucial concepts. In line with these values, Oman has adopted a long-term strategy for sustainable tourism. This reaffirmation and commitment is fully aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Excellencies, in the light of the continued difficulties that we are facing, both internally and globally, UNESCO’s message of commitment towards peace and stability has never been so imperative in a world shaken by turbulence and unpredictability. Hence, we must all remain fully focused and committed to the future of our Organization. Thus, it is our duty to work constructively, to think strategically and, most importantly, to embody the fundamental values of UNESCO at all times. Allow me to end by quoting the celebrated poet Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Rūmī: “Listen with ears of tolerance, see with eyes of compassion, speak with the language of love” and, in our case, may I add “speak with the language of unity and peace”. Thank you.

25.1 Kenya in extenso: Mr Chairperson, Mr President of the General-Conference, Madam Director-General, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, Kenya appreciates the information provided by the Director-General in her report. We also wish to express our condolences to the Member States affected by the recent natural disasters, as well as our solidarity with the UNESCO Member States confronting violent extremism.

25.2 Ladies and gentlemen, actualizing the bold vision set forth in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development demands our collective endeavour towards ensuring that the focus is on leaving no one behind. It is therefore imperative that we continue to embrace the reform momentum that will ensure that UNESCO remains fit for purpose in effectively responding to the needs of Member States. We should seize on the reform process of the United Nations to deepen strategic and innovative partnerships as well as to enhance coordination with other United Nations agencies. Ladies and gentlemen, education is as an essential lever for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome UNESCO’s commitment in supporting African countries through building capacities for the integration, coordination and monitoring of Goal 4 (Quality education). Kenya is pleased to collaborate with UNESCO and the African Union towards the organization of the first pan-African high-level meeting on Sustainable Development Goal 4 in March 2018, which will take place in Nairobi. Indeed, the meeting will review the progress made and the challenges faced by African Member States in the implementation of Goal 4. Further, ladies and gentlemen, water is essential to fulfilling the transformative agenda that is encompassed in the Sustainable Development Goals. Kenya appreciates the role of the International Hydrological Programme (IHP) in supporting Member States in their efforts to achieve Goal 6 (Clean water and sanitation). It is incumbent upon us to consolidate the enormous potential of the UNESCO water family in the advancement of the Goals. Kenya also appreciates the support of UNESCO for the monitoring and reporting process in relation to Goal 6. The African Biosphere Reserves Network (AfriMAB) plays an important role in the promotion of regional cooperation and sustainable development. It is in this regard that Kenya and Ghana are submitting to the General Conference at its 39th session a draft resolution that aims to establish a fund to facilitate sourcing for extrabudgetary funding to

address the conservation and capacity-building challenges facing biosphere reserves in Africa. Indeed, we appreciate the support that Member States will give to the draft resolution.

25.3 Ladies and gentlemen, UNESCO has a strong convening power and a unique interdisciplinary competency that should be leveraged towards developing innovative solutions to the global challenges. Enhancing the interface between science, policy and society is vital to the implementation of such solutions. Kenya welcomes the leadership role of the MOST Programme in that regard.

25.4 Sport is also a valuable tool for fostering social cohesion through the promotion of values such as inclusion, respect, tolerance and solidarity. Kenya welcomes UNESCO’s role in supporting Member States in harnessing the transformative power of sports, especially through the development of relevant policies and school curricula. Indeed, the 10th UNESCO Youth Forum is a prime opportunity to renew UNESCO’s engagement with youth as the partners and key stakeholders of the Organization. Young people represent a formidable resource that can provide solutions for sustainable development. Thus, youth participation in the design and delivery of UNESCO’s programmes should therefore be fostered. Kenya has put a lot of effort into empowering girls in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), in particular through STEM camps of excellence that have targeted around 800 girls. Kenya also hosted the second TeachHer Regional Training for Africa course, in collaboration with the Permanent Mission of the United States of America to UNESCO, the Secretariat, the UNESCO International Institute for Capacity-Building in Africa (IICBA) and the Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA). Indeed, over 80 educators from ten African countries have been trained in inspiring and imparting science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) skills to students, notably girls.

25.5 Finally, Mr Chairperson, Kenya would like to pay tribute to your leadership in effectively steering our work in the Executive Board. In addition, we also want to express our gratitude to the Director-General for having steered the reform agenda for UNESCO in spite of the emerging challenges. We wish both of you the best in your future endeavours. Thank you.

26.1 Algérie in extenso : Monsieur le Président du Conseil exécutif, Madame la Directrice générale, Mesdames et Messieurs les Délégués, je prends la parole pour la première fois en tant que représentant de mon pays devant cette auguste assemblée et je voudrais tout d'abord, Monsieur le Président, m’acquitter de l’agréable devoir de vous féliciter pour la conduite de nos travaux et votre présidence avisée de cette 202e session du Conseil exécutif. Je puis vous assurer de l'entière coopération de ma délégation pour le succès de nos travaux. Je voudrais également féliciter Madame la Directrice générale pour son rapport riche, dense et complet concernant la situation de notre Organisation, les difficultés qu’elle rencontre et les défis qu'elle a à relever, non seulement dans le cadre des missions qui sont les siennes mais aussi dans la perspective de la prochaine session de la Conférence générale.

26.2 Monsieur le Président, cette session, la dernière sous votre mandat, aura à élire un nouveau directeur général. Il s'agit certes d'une échéance importante parce

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que celle-ci portera sur le choix de la personne qui aura à diriger notre Organisation durant le prochain mandat. Mais nous devrons aussi au cours de la session nous pencher sur d'autres questions non moins importantes inscrites à l'ordre du jour, qui doivent, de notre point de vue, retenir toute notre attention et à propos desquelles je voudrais partager avec vous quelques réflexions.

26.3 Premièrement, l’élaboration du Programme et budget pour le prochain exercice biennal. Il s'agit là incontestablement d'une question sensible à l’examen de laquelle ma délégation a activement participé. Grâce aux discussions difficiles que nous avons eues et au consensus auquel nous sommes parvenus sous la conduite de Madame l'Ambassadeur d'EI Salvador, Présidente de la Commission financière et administrative (FA), notre Conseil pourra recommander à la Conférence générale une résolution évitant le blocage et permettant d'aller de l'avant. Il est important, comme la délégation algérienne n'a cessé de le souligner et de le faire valoir, que l'Organisation dispose des ressources nécessaires pour exécuter son mandat et que chaque État membre s'acquitte de sa contribution en temps voulu pour lui permettre de remplir ses missions.

26.4 Deuxièmement, le rôle de chef de file confié naturellement à l'UNESCO dans le cadre de l'ODD 4 relatif à l'Éducation 2030 doit être mis en œuvre même si la situation financière et les contraintes de personnel ont influé négativement sur le bon déroulement de la plupart des autres programmes. Il me plaît, dans ce contexte, d’appeler l’attention sur la tenue le 1er novembre prochain, en marge des travaux de la 39e session de la Conférence générale, d'une rencontre de haut niveau sur le thème « Renforcer la responsabilité dans la mise en œuvre de l’ODD 4 – Éducation 2030 », à laquelle la délégation algérienne participera activement.

26.5 Troisièmement, ma délégation prend note du Rapport sur la Stratégie de renforcement de l'action de l'UNESCO pour la protection de la culture et la promotion du pluralisme culturel en cas de conflit armé et suivra attentivement sa mise en œuvre, d'autant que son adoption par le Conseil a soulevé des désaccords, s’agissant notamment de distinguer ce qui relève du mandat de notre Organisation et ce qui relève du mandat d'autres institutions onusiennes. Ceci dit, l'Algérie continuera d’apporter son soutien aux initiatives et autres actions développées par l'UNESCO pour la protection du patrimoine dans les zones de conflit, patrimoine qui est l’objet de destruction et de pillage de la part de groupes terroristes criminels dont les liens avec le crime organisé sont aujourd'hui avérés dans de nombreuses zones d'instabilité.

26.6 Quatrièmement, pour avoir souffert elle-même des affres du terrorisme pendant de longues années, seule et dans l'indifférence la plus totale de la communauté internationale, l'Algérie mesure la souffrance des autres peuples qui font face à ce fléau. Elle réaffirme, dans ce cadre, sa pleine solidarité et son engagement entier en faveur de la lutte contre ce phénomène transnational. Mon pays redit à ce titre qu’il est disposé à partager son expérience en matière de lutte contre la radicalisation et l'extrémisme violent, dans le cadre de laquelle l'éducation, au cœur du mandat de l'UNESCO, constitue le premier levier d'action pour obtenir des résultats concrets.

26.7 Cinquièmement, en ce qui concerne les réunions intersessions expérimentées ces deux dernières années,

la délégation algérienne s'est prononcée sur la question lors de nos délibérations du 22 septembre dernier. Elle rappelle qu’elle n’est pas favorable à la reconduction de ce format de réunions, qui se sont avérées budgétivores et fort peu utiles. Elle préconise de revenir à la formule du groupe préparatoire, qui se réunissait pendant deux ou trois jours et dont le président ou la présidente faisait au Conseil des recommandations précises permettant justement de faire des économies de temps et d'argent. Un statut de participant renforcé pourrait être réservé au sein de ce Groupe aux membres observateurs.

26.8 Enfin, ma délégation appelle à la mise en œuvre des décisions adoptées par le Conseil sur la Palestine et la préservation de ses sites culturels et historiques.

26.9 Monsieur le Président, alors que notre quatrième mandat consécutif au Conseil exécutif arrivera à son terme à la fin de la prochaine Conférence générale, la délégation algérienne, qui n'a jamais ménagé ses efforts pour la réussite des travaux de cet organe, tient à remercier l'ensemble des collègues des États membres et non membres pour leur coopération, leur appui et leur soutien, ainsi que nos amis du Secrétariat pour leur disponibilité, qui nous a grandement facilité la tâche.

:النص الكامل لبنان ١-٢٧حضرة رئيس اجمللس التنفيذي، حضرة رئيس املؤمتر العام، حضرة

ئمني، الدااملديرة العامة لليونسكو، أصحاب السعادة السفراء واملندوبنيمن لبنان السيدات والسادة، من بلدي لبنان أمحل لكم مجيعا ألف حتية،

اآلخر"، وقبول ة كما قال البابا الراحل بولس الثاين "رسالة التسامحالرسالات عن الصراع بنفسه لبنان منوذج العيش الواحد والتوافق اجملتمعي، لبنان النائي

عة ا بشر اليت تدور حوله. ولكن هذا النأي مل مينعه من أن يكون متمسكإلنسان اه أن نا منحقوق اإلنسان، كيف ال وهو من املسامهني يف وضعها إميا

أخ لكل إنسان أيا كان لونه أو معتقده.

ومن أجل ذلك ومع بدء األزمة السورية مل يتوان لبنان عن استقبال ٢-٢٧يبا. ان تقر النازحني السوريني بأعداد وصلت إىل نصف العدد السكاين للبن

لكامل، ا الدعم ولقد قدمت الدولة اللبنانية إىل النازحني رغم ضآلة مواردهاالت ة وجمابالتعاون مع املنظمات الدولية، من تعليم وإسكان ورعاية صحي

هلدوء اعودة عمل وضمانات حقوقية وفقا ألنظمة األمم املتحدة. واليوم مع لعمل سويا تحدة اإىل مساحة كبرية من سورية نطالب اجملتمع الدويل واألمم امل

ضمانات بقراهم و ني إىل بلداهتم والسعي إىل كفالة عودة آمنة للرعايا السوريعلى دولية تضمن سالمتهم وحسن إقامتهم. وهذه العودة تساعد لبنان

ىل إنتطلع و استعادة توازنه وعافيته وهو مطلب حمق وغري قابل للمساومة، جملتمعامنظمتكم لدعم لبنان يف هذا املسار. وهذا كله يتحقق مع سعي

م د السالي عادل يوقف احلرب ويعيالدويل إىل العمل على إجياد حل سياسيام نظام قعتبار إىل كامل األراضي السورية. وهذا احلل جيب أن يأخذ بعني اال

ى مهة تقع علو دميقراطي تعددي يضمن عودة آمنة جلميع النازحني إىل سورية. رة ق مبادمنظمتكم أن تعمل بالتوازي على تأمني التعليم لألطفال وإطال

لسورية. النزاع ثقايف وحماربة هتريب اآلثار من مناطق اللحفاظ على اإلرث الققت اب، وحوجتدر اإلشارة إىل أن لبنان عمل بشكل جدي على حماربة اإلره

منة يف زيرة آقواه األمنية إجنازات مهمة على ذلك الصعيد مما جعل لبنان ج حميط متفجر وملتهب.

م أو مديرة السيدات والسادة، حنن على أبواب انتخاب مدير عا ٣-٢٧عامة للمنظمة، ويؤمن هلا هذا االنتخاب التجدد ودوام االستمرار يف تأدية

202 EX/SR.1-12 page 11 – SR.1

رسالتها الرتبوية والثقافية، وللبنان مرشحة هي السيدة فريا خوري نتمىن تأييدكم هلا للفوز هبذا املنصب خصوصا أ�ا عايشت هذه املنظمة وعملت من أجلها

لرجاء بفوزها ال خيرجنا عن مسار عن قرب وبشكل فاعل ومتفاعل. وهذا اشديد بقناعتنا أن األولوية بالنسبة إلينا هي أن تستمر هذه املنظمة يف تأدية

دورها املتقدم كمنرب ومنارة مشعة رائدة يف جماهلا ومتجددة على الدوام.(27.1) Lebanon in extenso

(translation from the Arabic): Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Mr President of the General Conference, Madam Director-General of UNESCO, Excellencies Ambassadors and Permanent Delegates, ladies and gentlemen, I bear to you a thousand greetings from my country, “Lebanon of the message”, as the late Pope John Paul II said, “the message of tolerance and acceptance of the Other,” Lebanon which is a model of co-existence and social harmony, Lebanon which is itself far removed from the conflicts raging around it; however, this distance has not prevented its attachment to the legitimate principles of human rights. How could it do otherwise when it was one of its drafters, given that it believes that human beings are the brothers of all other human beings, whatever their colour or creed.

(27.2) To that end, from the beginning of the Syrian crisis, Lebanon has spared no effort to take in Syrian migrants, in numbers approaching half the population of Lebanon. The State has offered them full support, despite the paucity of its own resources, in cooperation with international organizations, in the fields of education, housing, health care, jobs, and guarantees of rights, in accordance with United Nations rules. And today, with the return of calm to large areas of the Syrian Arab Republic, we urge both the international community and the United Nations to work together to ensure the safe return of Syrian nationals to their homes, with international guarantees for their safety and smooth resettlement at home. Such return will help Lebanon to recover its equilibrium and vitality; this is a just and non-negotiable demand. We hope that your Organization will support Lebanon in this regard. We hope that all this will be achieved through the efforts of the international community to find a just political solution which may put an end to the war and restore peace to all parts of the Syrian Arab Republic. Such a solution must take into account the need to install a democratic, pluralist regime which guarantees a safe return to all migrants back to the Syrian Arab Republic. At the same time, it falls to your Organization to work to provide education to children and to launch an initiative to preserve the cultural heritage and combat the smuggling of artefacts from the areas of conflict in the Syrian Arab Republic. It should be noted that Lebanon has worked hard to combat terrorism; its security forces have made important advances in that regard, which have made Lebanon an island of peace in an ocean raging with explosions and conflagrations.

(27.3) Ladies and gentlemen, we are about to nominate a new Director-General for the Organization, and we trust that this nomination will help the Organization to renew itself and continue to perform its educational and cultural mission. Lebanon has a candidate, Ms Vera El-Khoury, whom we hope you will support for this important post, particularly since

she has lived and worked closely with this Organization with great effectiveness and interaction. This plea to support her does not get us away from the grave situation in which the Organization finds itself. Indeed, we are convinced that the priority must be for the Organization to continue to perform its pioneering function as a rostrum and a shining beacon in its own fields, constantly renewing itself.

(The speaker continues in English)

27.4 Ladies and gentlemen, the International Centre for Human Sciences (ICSH) was founded in 1973 in Lebanon. Located in the historic city of Byblos, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, which has born witness to centuries of human civilization, the centre failed to fulfil its potential due to the wars that ravaged our country for more than 16 years. For that reason, the classification of the centre was downgraded from category 1 to category 2. We are aspiring to revive the centre to enable it to play a leading role in the dialogue between civilizations and to become a medium for the exchange of expertise among specialists from around the world, while promoting the values of peace, tolerance and non-violence. ln this respect, we are hoping that your valued Organization will support the decision of the Lebanese Government to revitalize the role of the centre in Lebanon and the region.

(The speaker continues in Arabic)

السيدات والسادة أمتىن جمللسكم التوفيق والوصول إىل األهداف ٥-٢٧ ماعكم.سن استحلالسالم والعدالة واحلرية والتسامح، وشكرا املرجوة لتحقيق

(27.5) Ladies and gentlemen, I wish the Executive Board every success and hope that it may achieve its goals in order to usher in peace, justice, freedom and tolerance. Thank you for your attention.

28.1 Nigeria in extenso: Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Mr President of the General Conference, Madam Director-General, Excellencies, dear colleagues, this biennium has been a very busy and challenging one for UNESCO. More than ever before we have been able, as the Executive Board, to keep a continuous presence in the life of the Organization. In that context, we have also made great strides in involving Member States and non-Members of the Board in our regular dialogue on the fears, fortunes and performance of our Organization. Various efforts at improving our efficiency and effectiveness have been initiated. In all of these we have, in an iterative manner, constantly evaluated and consequently adjusted our actions without shying away from admitting it when things do not work out as expected. Overall, these have been worthy experiments for, while underlining their usefulness, some of the weaknesses have also been exposed. In this context, therefore, we wish to recall that one of UNESCO’s general missions is to promote the development of scientific knowledge. In 1946, Sir Julian Huxley, the first Director-General of UNESCO, wrote that “the application of scientific knowledge provides our chief means for raising the level of human welfare”. Hence UNESCO helped build scientific institutions in Europe and other regions. More recently, there has been a wide recognition of the role of science in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. It is for this reason that we view with great concern the declining capacity in basic sciences and engineering within the Organization, which has resulted from the low rating given to the programme by us, the Member States. UNESCO’s work in science, technology

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and innovation policies should be complemented by the International Basic Sciences Programme (IBSP) as a platform for intellectual cooperation and the advocacy of investment in science.

28.2 Mr Chairperson, statistics show that Nigeria has about two million internally displaced persons, largely as a result of the Boko Haram crisis. As one of our concerns is access to education, a national policy on inclusive education was adopted in July 2017 to promote the mainstreaming of children with special needs into regular educational programmes, as well as to address the needs of vulnerable and marginalized groups, including internally displaced persons. We therefore warmly welcome the report of the Director-General on UNESCO’s activities to enhance learning opportunities for those persons and for refugees.

28.3 Nigeria congratulates Slovenia for the highly successful 2nd World Open Educational Resources (OER) Congress, held in Ljubljana. The preparations for the Congress gave Nigeria the impetus to develop and present our draft national policy on OER for higher education, with support from the Commonwealth of Learning. A Nigerian university system OER platform has also been established and, to date, about 58 universities have uploaded content to the platform.

28.4 Mr Chairperson, let me draw attention here to the fact that every programme implementation report and most evaluation reports point to the negative effect of limited funds and staff on the capability of UNESCO to adequately fulfil its mandate. That is why Nigeria will support the option of the $667 million budget scenario (with a $518 million expenditure plan).

28.5 On partnerships, Mr Chairperson, on behalf of the Commonwealth group, of which Nigeria is the Chair, we urge the Secretariat to identify concrete actions to implement the revised memorandum of understanding between the Organization and the Commonwealth Secretariat, with a focus on the three pillars of cooperation: education, youth and sport, and peacebuilding and dialogue.

28.6 Dear colleagues, we are now well into the constitutional process for the election of a new Director-General for the Organization. It is our hope that our deliberations and action in that regard will be rewarded with a successful outcome for the leadership of the Organization in the coming years. As we bid farewell to Ms Bokova, we look back with appreciation on her contribution in leading UNESCO through a very important period in its history. For the past eight years she has led the Organization with great commitment, as its Director-General, the first woman to do so. It is to her credit that she has worked with commitment on the efforts to renew and review the Organization and to create a “UNESCO fit for purpose”. We thank you, Irina, for your leadership and your commitment to the ideals of UNESCO, and we wish you continuing success in your future endeavours. I thank you for your kind attention.

29.1 Japan in extenso: Mr Chairperson, Madam Director-General, to whom I would like to echo what the previous speaker has just said, Excellencies and dear colleagues, I would like to begin by asking a question. Have you paid attention to the “Young Girl In Boots” at the Fontenoy entrance? The statue, made by a Japanese sculptor, commemorates the first World Congress of UNESCO Clubs and Associations held in 1984 in Sendai. Sendai is the birthplace of the first

UNESCO association in the world in 1947. Over the past 70 years, the number of clubs or associations has grown to over 5,000 in more than 100 countries. This is a good reminder for us of the high expectations of the Organization all over the world. Since its accession in 1951, Japan has been actively striving for UNESCO to fulfil its mandates. Allow me to illustrate this with a few recent examples.

29.2 On education, Japan remains committed to supporting education for sustainable development (ESD) in various parts of the world. It is an essential enabler for the Sustainable Development Goals. Japan will continue to promote the sharing of expertise and experience for peoples to join forces. One such example is the UNESCO-Japan Prize on Education for Sustainable Development. I am looking forward to congratulating the winners of this year of the Prize, from Jordan, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and Zimbabwe, at the coming session of the General Conference.

29.3 On behalf of my people and Government, I would like to express our deepest condolences to all countries and people who suffered from the recent earthquakes and hurricanes. As a disaster-prone country, Japan has been active in improving tsunami and flood early-warning systems, and in developing policy guidelines for disaster risk reduction. We would also like to promote relevant activities through the International Hydrological Programme (IHP) and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC). Cooperative activities in the MAB Programme and in regard to geoparks are also important to harmonize human life with the natural environment, including disasters caused by nature.

29.4 The concept of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals through sports has been highlighted in the Kazan Action Plan adopted by our sports ministers last July. One can find a similar concept in the programme entitled “Sport for Tomorrow”. Japan started this programme in 2014, as the host of the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics in 2020. The programme has produced fruitful results in 193 countries, including Cambodia, Kenya and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic most recently.

29.5 Two weeks ago, we hosted an international conference in Tokyo with experts to discuss the future of the Bamiyan Buddha statues. The conference discussed how we could revitalize the lost cultural heritage and thereby revive the identity, beliefs and integrity of the local community. It was a good step forward in the search for, and discussion of, the sustainable preservation of the cultural heritage in response to the destruction caused by conflicts or disasters.

29.6 The environment in which UNESCO operates has changed but its founding principles remain relevant. During the current session of the Executive Board let us, the Member States, make the right decisions for the right course of this Organization, including in the election of the next Director-General. Japan, as a responsible Member of the Organization and the Executive Board, is firmly committed to playing its part so that the Organization is able to navigate safely and wisely through the challenges, including those in regard to governance, finance and politicization. Solutions to political problems require dialogue. For the Memory of the World Programme, Japan continues to believe that the programme, as in the case of all other UNESCO programmes, should play a role in

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promoting dialogue rather than inciting divisions among the Members and peoples.

29.7 Before concluding, allow me to ask another question. Have you looked at the refurbished Japanese garden at Fontenoy? We hope that the garden will remain a place where dialogue occurs among ourselves or with nature, for peace. It is called The Garden of Peace. Thank you for your kind attention.

30.1 Ucrania in extenso: Estimada señora Directora General, distinguidos miembros del Consejo: creo que no estoy solo en mi percepción de que este otoño se inicia una nueva etapa en la historia de la UNESCO y del sistema de las Naciones Unidas en general. El mecanismo poderoso, pero a la vez reticente, llamado UNESCO lucha por seguir el ritmo de los dinámicos cambios del mundo moderno. El enorme potencial de nuestra Organización sigue sin utilizarse en toda su extensión. De hecho, la UNESCO está muy por delante de muchos otros actores mundiales en su participación en la elaboración y ejecución de proyectos universales de importancia sin precedentes como la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo Sostenible. La UNESCO también ha iniciado una reforma interna integral. Sin embargo, es solo un comienzo. Hay que hacer un gran esfuerzo para mantener el ritmo de las reformas, lograr una verdadera transparencia y reafirmar el papel de liderazgo de la UNESCO en el camino hacia un mundo en el que las perspectivas de la educación y la ciencia no estén limitadas por los prejuicios políticos y el patrimonio cultural sea protegido de manera incondicional y cuidadosa.

30.2 Ucrania está dispuesta a seguir apoyando a la UNESCO en todas sus esferas de competencia mediante la aplicación de medidas prácticas que aporten un valor añadido a nuestro trabajo conjunto. Me gustaría recordar que en esta reunión del Consejo se considerará la creación de la Academia Juvenil de Ciencias de Ucrania como centro auspiciado por la UNESCO (categoría 2) con el fin de promover la educación científica de niños y jóvenes, que está en el primer lugar en la lista de prioridades de la UNESCO. También queremos asumir nuestra parte de las responsabilidades de la UNESCO en la salvaguardia del patrimonio mundial. Esta es precisamente la razón por la cual Ucrania ha presentado su candidatura para el Comité del Patrimonio Mundial. A pesar de tener una vasta experiencia en velar por el respeto de las normas de conservación de la UNESCO en siete sitios del patrimonio mundial, mi país nunca había sido miembro de este importante órgano de la UNESCO. La libertad de los medios de comunicación y la seguridad de los periodistas es otra esfera en la que Ucrania está dispuesta tanto a promover las normas internacionales pertinentes en el ámbito nacional como a seguir fortaleciendo esta actividad principal de la UNESCO en el plano multilateral.

30.3 Distinguidos miembros del Consejo: durante más de tres años, Ucrania ha estado viviendo bajo la ocupación ilegal de una porción significativa de su territorio por parte de la Federación de Rusia: la Republica de Crimea y la ciudad de Sebastopol y unas partes de la región de Donbass. Lamentablemente, la información presentada por la Secretaría en esta reunión demuestra nítidamente que la situación en la península ocupada sigue deteriorándose en lo relativo a las esferas de competencia de la UNESCO. También quisiera recordar el reciente informe temático de la Oficina del Alto Comisionado de las Naciones Unidas para los Derechos

Humanos sobre la situación de los derechos humanos en Crimea. El documento preparado de conformidad con la resolución pertinente de la Asamblea General de las Naciones Unidas describe hechos indignantes de flagrante violación de los derechos humanos por parte de la potencia ocupante. Mientras la población de la península soporta el mayor peso de la ocupación, las autoridades rusas no consideran el patrimonio cultural y natural de Crimea como objeto de importancia histórica e intemporal, sino como botín de la “conquista”. Las excavaciones ilegales, las actividades ilícitas de construcción y la negligencia respecto a la conservación y renovación de sitios culturales de incalculable valor se han convertido en moneda corriente. Desafortunadamente, la falta de una vigilancia internacional eficaz impide hacer frente a la impunidad. Me complace reconocer un progreso sustancial de nuestras consultas con la Secretaría sobre la elaboración de los parámetros de las actividades de vigilancia directa de la UNESCO en Crimea.

30.4 Distinguidos miembros del Consejo: quisiera terminar con unas palabras dedicadas a nuestra Directora General y agradecer a la querida señora Bokova todo lo que ha hecho para llegar a donde estamos. Una vez más, muchas gracias por pon.

(30.1) Ukraine in extenso (translation from the Spanish):

Dear Director-General, distinguished Members of the Board, I believe that I am not alone in my perception that this autumn marks the beginning of a new phase in the history of UNESCO and the United Nations system as a whole. The powerful, yet cautious, mechanism called UNESCO struggles to keep pace with the dynamic changes in the modern world. Our Organization’s huge potential is not yet fully realized. In fact, the Organization is well ahead of many other international stakeholders regarding the part it plays in the development and implementation of global projects of unprecedented importance such as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. UNESCO has also initiated comprehensive internal reform, but this is only the beginning. A significant effort is required to sustain the pace of reform, achieve effective transparency and reaffirm UNESCO’s leadership role in the endeavour to build a world in which educational and scientific perspectives are not constrained by political bias and cultural heritage receives unconditional and careful protection.

(30.2) Ukraine is prepared to continue supporting UNESCO in all its fields of competence through the implementation of practical measures that add value to our joint endeavour. I would like to remind you that, at this session, the Board will consider the establishment of the Junior Academy of Sciences of Ukraine as a centre under the auspices of UNESCO (category 2) aimed at promoting science education for children and young people, which is UNESCO’s top priority. We also wish to take our share of UNESCO’s responsibility to safeguard the world heritage. This is precisely why Ukraine has submitted its candidacy to the World Heritage Committee. Notwithstanding its extensive experience in ensuring compliance with UNESCO’s conservation standards at seven world heritage sites, my country has never been a member of that important UNESCO body. Media freedom and the safety of journalists is another area in which Ukraine is prepared to both promote the relevant

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international standards at the national level and continue strengthening this core UNESCO activity multilaterally.

(30.3) Dear Members of the Board, for more than three years, Ukraine has been under the illegal occupation by the Russian Federation of a significant portion of its territory: the Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol and parts of the Donbass region. Regrettably, the information presented by the Secretariat at this session demonstrates clearly that the situation in the occupied peninsula continues to deteriorate with respect to UNESCO’s fields of competence. I would also like to recall the recent thematic report of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights on the human rights situation in Crimea. The document, prepared pursuant to the relevant United Nations General Assembly resolution, describes appalling human rights violations by the occupying power. While the peninsula’s population bears the heaviest burden of occupation, the Russian authorities do not consider the cultural and natural heritage of Crimea as a subject of timeless, historical significance, but as the spoils of “conquest”. Illegal excavations, unlawful construction activities and neglected conservation and renovation of invaluable cultural sites have become commonplace. Unfortunately, the lack of effective international monitoring hinders the ability to tackle impunity. I am pleased to acknowledge that we have made substantial progress in our consultations with the Secretariat regarding the development of parameters for UNESCO’s direct monitoring activities in Crimea.

(30.4) Distinguished Members of the Board, I would like to conclude by devoting a few words to the Director-General and to thank dear Ms Bokova for all that she has done to bring us thus far. Once again, thank you very much for your great dedication and effort.

31.1 中国发言全文：

谢谢主席。大会主席先生，执行局主席先生，

总干事女士，各位同事，女士们，先生们，中方感谢总干

事所做的计划执行报告。中方赞赏秘书处在财务困难情况

下作出的积极努力，确保了本组织重大计划得到有效执

行。中方赞同马来西亚代表将宣读的亚太组联合声明。中

方原则赞同 39C/5草案，也注意到了相关的信息文件。

31.2 目前，教科文组织正处于发展的关键阶段，

2030 年可持续发展议程赋予本组织更大责任，会员国对本

组织在新的时代背景下履行宗旨使命、发挥更大作用寄予

了新的期待。中方认为，面对新形势、新挑战，本组织需

要具备新思维、找准新定位、采取新措施。而要做到这

些，首先会员国之间要达成共识，建立互信、强化互信。

任何计划的制定都要以相互信任为前提；也只有彼此信

任，才能将计划执行到位。因此，本组织的下一个四年计

划和预算应是我们彼此互信的结晶，应从创新思维和全局

视角出发，审视各项工作安排，体现改革发展方向，全面

强调对非洲优先和性别平等两大优先事项的重视。对此，

我有几点具体的思考：

31.3 2030 年教育议程为全球教育发展指明了方向，

其中高等教育、职业教育是重要内容。本组织在实施

《2030 年议程》、特别是落实可持续发展目标 4 的过程中

发挥了卓越的全球领导作用。中方希望教科文组织继续发

挥积极作用，在全球范围内促进高等教育和职业教育发

展。中方将继续支持 2030 年教育议程实施，特别是 2030

年教育指导委员会的工作。

31.4 今天，新能源、新技术给人类带来了新机遇，

也给教科文组织带来了新挑战。中方希望教科文组织在该

方面充分发挥思想实验室的引领作用，为会员国提供更多

前瞻性、方向性、指导性的支持。希望教科文组织进一步

加强对科学领域各项政府间合作计划的协调，为应对全球

气候变化和促进可持续发展提供智力支撑。

31.5 本组织在保护世界遗产、激励文化创新、促进

文明间对话方面的工作，为维护世界和平发挥着独特的重

要作用。中方认为，文化传承的意义在于实现延续与创

新，文化交流的目的在于促进理解与宽容。中方希望教科

文组织积极作为，带领会员国共同开辟出文化创新的新天

地，为世界的持久和平做出贡献。

31.6 世界记忆项目自创立以来为保护文献遗产、保

留人类历史记忆做出了重要贡献。中方认为，世界记忆项

目就应记录历史事实，对其规则的修改应体现国际正义，

促进会员国之间的对话与团结，从而维护世界和平，促进

可持续发展。

31.7 女士们，先生们，面对困境，互信弥足珍贵。

教科文组织是属于我们每个会员国的。作为执行局委员，

监督秘书处的工作、使其更有效率是我们的责任，但我们

更重要的责任是支持秘书处，帮助其扩大财源、争取更大

国际活动空间和影响力，为维护世界和平和可持续发展作

出不懈努力。本次会议将选出新一任总干事。中方认为，

当选总干事应当是能够带领本组织平稳走出困境，妥善应

对矛盾，为本组织开拓出崭新天地的人选。

31.8 本组织即将召开大会第三十九届会议，选举产

生新一届执行局。中方珍视本届执行局委员之间的精诚合

作，特别感谢执行局主席 Michael Worbs 先生勤勉高效的

工作。中方愿同各国一道，为教科文组织未来的改革发展

作出更大贡献。谢谢。

(31.1) China in extenso (translation from the Chinese): Thank you Mr Chairperson. Mr President of the General Conference, Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General, colleagues, ladies and gentlemen, the Chinese delegation would like to thank the Director-General for presenting her report on programme execution. China appreciates the positive efforts made by the Secretariat to ensure the effective implementation of the Organization’s major programmes in a challenging financial environment. China endorses the joint statement of the Asia and the Pacific Group, to be read out by the representative of Malaysia. China agrees in principle to draft document 39 C/5 and has taken note of related information documents.

(31.2) Currently, UNESCO is undergoing a crucial stage of development. Now that the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development has entrusted the Organization with greater responsibilities, the Member States hold renewed expectations for the Organization to discharge its mandate and to play a more important role in a new historical context. China believes that the Organization, in the face of new circumstances and challenges, needs to commit itself to innovative thinking, accurate positioning and taking new measures. This would first and foremost require Member States to build consensus and to create and enhance mutual trust, which is critical to both

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programme formulation and delivery. UNESCO’s next quadrennial Programme and Budget should thus crystalize mutual trust, feature innovative thinking and an overarching vision for our work, reflect the orientations of reform and highlight the global priorities of Africa and gender equality. In this regard, I would like to share my views as follows.

(31.3) The Education 2030 Agenda sets out a clear direction for global educational development, with higher education and vocational education as its key components. UNESCO has exercised significant global leadership in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, in particular SDG 4. China hopes that UNESCO will play a more active role in promoting the development of higher education and vocational education at the global level. China will provide sustained support to the implementation of the Education 2030 Agenda, especially the work of the SDG-Education 2030 Steering Committee.

(31.4) Today, new energy and new technologies have brought about new challenges for UNESCO as well as new opportunities for humankind. China hopes that UNESCO can play a leading role as a laboratory of ideas and provide its Member States with more forward-looking guidance and support. We also hope that UNESCO will further strengthen its coordination of inter-governmental scientific programmes so as to provide intellectual support in addressing global climate change and in promoting sustainable development.

(31.5) UNESCO has played a major unique role in promoting world peace through its efforts in protecting world heritage, driving cultural innovation and promoting dialogue among civilisations. China believes that the significance of cultural heritage lies in the fact that it is an enabler of continuation and innovation, and the aim of cultural exchange is to promote understanding and tolerance. China hopes that the Organization will work more proactively to lead its Member States in opening up new horizons for cultural innovation, thus contributing to lasting peace in the world.

(31.6) Ever since its establishment, the Memory of the World Programme has made significant contributions to the protection of documentary heritage and the preservation of the historical memory of humanity. China believes that the Memory of the World Programme should endeavour to record historical facts and that any modification of its rules should be done in such a way that it would promote international justice as well as dialogue and solidarity among Member States, thus contributing to world peace and sustainable development.

(31.7) Ladies and gentlemen, in difficult times, mutual trust is all the more precious. Since UNESCO belongs to each of its Member States, it is our duty and responsibility as Members of the Executive Board to exercise oversight over the work of the Secretariat and make sure that it functions effectively. However, a more important duty of ours is to help the Secretariat to raise financial resources, expand international space for activities, enhance its visibility and make tireless efforts to maintain world peace and promote sustainable development. At the current session, a new Director-General will be elected. China believes

that the new Director-General should be one who is capable of leading the Organization out of the current predicament, dealing with conflicts skilfully and creating new horizons for the Organization.

(31.8) In the upcoming 39th session of the General Conference of the Organization, a new Executive Board will be elected. China cherishes the solidarity among the Members of the current Executive Board and would especially like to thank its Chairperson, Mr Michael Worbs, for his assiduous and efficient work. China is willing to work with other countries to make greater contributions to the reform and development of UNESCO. Thank you.

32.1 Sénégal in extenso : Monsieur le Président de la Conférence générale, Monsieur le Président du Conseil exécutif, Madame la Directrice générale, Excellences, Ambassadeurs et délégués permanents, Mesdames et Messieurs, la présente session du Conseil exécutif de l'UNESCO, qui précède de quelques semaines la 39e Conférence générale, devra entériner l'adoption, pour la première fois, d'un budget intégré. Cette innovation, résultat d'un long processus de réflexion entre les États membres et le Secrétariat, a pour ambition de doter notre Organisation d'un budget structuré autour de programmes et de priorités pertinents et conformes à son mandat. Mais, au-delà de cela, il s'agit surtout d'avoir le plus grand impact possible dans la réalisation des objectifs du Programme 2030 de l'ONU et de l'Agenda 2063 de l'Union africaine, en leur apportant une contribution substantielle. C'est la raison pour laquelle nous restons persuadés qu'un tel budget sera de nature à redynamiser les actions de notre Organisation et à mobiliser davantage de contributions des États, des partenaires et des autres parties prenantes tels que les donateurs publics et privés.

32.2 Dans le contexte actuel de crise financière et de restriction progressive des budgets et des programmes, nous reconnaissons que l'Organisation doit faire face à des choix. Mais nous estimons aussi que le prochain exercice biennal doit réaliser une promesse : celle de la priorité Afrique. Non seulement en raison des menaces qui gagnent le continent mais surtout des attentes légitimes de sa jeunesse, désireuse de prendre une part active à l'émergence d'une Afrique capable d'atteindre les objectifs fixés dans son Agenda de développement à l'horizon 2063. Aussi mon pays soutient-il tout scénario visant à donner un sens réel à la priorité Afrique et à ses programmes phares en particulier, en veillant à accorder aux bureaux responsables les moyens opérationnels suffisants en termes de ressources budgétaires, extrabudgétaires et humaines. Nous souhaitons donc qu'un effort particulier soit accompli pour augmenter la part du budget ordinaire affectée à l'Afrique ainsi que pour mobiliser des ressources extrabudgétaires aux niveaux national et sous-régional en Afrique. À cet égard et afin d'éviter un déficit financier important dans l'actuel budget intégré qui mobilise l'ensemble des ressources nécessaires pour le prochain exercice biennal, il nous faut renforcer le dialogue structuré sur le financement et favoriser une plus grande intégration et appropriation transversale des programmes par les Secteurs ainsi qu’une plus grande visibilité des actions à financer.

32.3 Mesdames, Messieurs, malgré les importants efforts diplomatiques de la communauté internationale en faveur du règlement des nombreux conflits qui agitent le monde, force est de reconnaître que les menaces persistent et prennent des formes nouvelles qui

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interpellent tout particulièrement notre Organisation : menaces contre le patrimoine culturel et les expressions culturelles, montée de l'intolérance religieuse, culturelle et ethnique, menaces contre l'environnement. Toutes ces menaces, qui n'épargnent aucune région ni aucune société du monde, viennent confirmer le bien-fondé de notre Acte constitutif et doivent surtout inciter l'Organisation à aller de l'avant, à dépasser le temps des crises (comme elle a su le faire dans le passé) et à faire preuve, à nouveau, de sa capacité créative en démontrant sa valeur ajoutée dans le monde nouveau en construction. Le Sénégal tient à féliciter l'UNESCO pour son travail de grande importance visant à combattre la radicalisation et l'extrémisme violent à travers l'éducation. En effet, c'est par l'éducation que l'on peut asseoir les bases d'un dialogue harmonieux entre les cultures pour que les religions ne soient plus perçues comme des espaces d'antagonisme et de conflit mais comme des espaces de communion dans le respect des différences.

32.4 Monsieur le Président, notre délégation tient également à féliciter l'UNESCO de l’organisation à Bangkok, en août 2017, du Colloque sur l’éducation des filles en sciences, en technologie, en ingénierie et en mathématiques (STEM). L'Afrique a un retard à rattraper dans ce domaine si elle veut disposer de capacités techniques et scientifiques propres, indispensables à l'émergence de son économie dans une compétition mondiale qui repose de plus en plus sur l'innovation et l'expertise technique. C'est pourquoi, se félicitant des formations organisées en Afrique dans le cadre de l'initiative TeachHer pour renforcer les capacités des enseignants, le Sénégal se propose d'accueillir la troisième édition de cette manifestation, après celles d'Addis-Abeba en 2016 et de Nairobi en 2017. L'engagement de l'UNESCO dans la lutte contre la violence liée au genre en milieu scolaire s'est traduit par de multiples actions et activités. Cependant, pour mettre fin efficacement et durablement à la violence faite aux femmes et aux filles en milieu scolaire, il faut inscrire notre action dans la perspective de l'éducation à la citoyenneté.

32.5 Pour conclure, le Sénégal s'associe à la déclaration faite par l'Afrique du Sud au nom du Groupe Afrique, félicite le Président pour l’excellente façon dont il a dirigé les travaux du Conseil et rend hommage à la Directrice générale pour le dynamisme et le leadership dont elle a fait preuve tout au long de ses deux mandats.

33.1 Paraguay in extenso: Señor Presidente de la Conferencia General, señor Presidente del Consejo Ejecutivo, señora Directora General, señores delegados, estimados colegas: iniciamos hoy una reunión en la que tendremos la responsabilidad de elegir a la persona que regirá los destinos de nuestra Organización durante los próximos cuatro años, en un contexto mundial en el que se hace cada vez más relevante el mandato de la UNESCO. Antes de continuar, saludo muy especialmente a la Directora General, señora Irina Bokova, al tiempo que le manifiesto el reconocimiento del Paraguay por su liderazgo al frente de la UNESCO y le reitero nuestra gratitud y amistad.

33.2 Esta reunión del Consejo Ejecutivo presenta un extenso orden del día, que ha sido aligerado gracias a las reuniones intermedias que tuvimos previamente. Todos sus puntos son fundamentales para el futuro de la Organización, la cual se ve condicionada más que nunca por la aguda crisis financiera que la afecta. El Paraguay, como hizo en reuniones anteriores, reitera que el pago de las contribuciones obligatorias para el presupuesto

ordinario es fundamental para el funcionamiento de la Organización y que su demora es una práctica que lamentablemente se está haciendo cada vez más común, poniendo en riesgo seriamente la ejecución del mandato de la UNESCO. En esta reunión debemos aprobar el Programa y Presupuesto para el próximo bienio. Esperamos que los documentos 39 C/5 y 39 C/6 sean el reflejo del largo trabajo realizado en la búsqueda de consensos para dotar a los programas de recursos del presupuesto ordinario suficientes, de conformidad con las prioridades definidas por los Estados Miembros.

33.3 Señor Presidente: la educación se encuentra en el corazón del mandato de la UNESCO. La alfabetización, la capacitación de los docentes y la educación superior son indispensables para lograr el efectivo cumplimiento del ODS 4 de la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo Sostenible. Hacerlos realidad es nuestro principal desafío y, en tal sentido, apoyamos el proyecto de decisión relativo a la alfabetización, considerando la necesidad de intensificar los esfuerzos colectivos vinculados a la agenda Educación 2030.

33.4 Nuestra región se ha visto afectada por catástrofes naturales de diversa índole. La solidaridad y la cooperación internacionales fueron fundamentales en el rescate de las víctimas, la protección del medio ambiente y las tareas de manejo de las crisis. Acompañamos la iniciativa de fortalecer el plan de emergencia para situaciones de desastre y la “Estrategia para reforzar la labor de la UNESCO en materia de protección de la cultura y promoción del pluralismo cultural en caso de conflicto armado”, así como el plan de acción que la acompaña, como herramientas para responder a la salvaguardia del patrimonio en peligro ante situaciones de emergencia de diversa índole. Apoyamos decididamente los trabajos de prevención, reducción de riesgos y cooperación científica y tecnológica que realizan el PHI, la COI y el MAB, pues en estas áreas la UNESCO cuenta con conocimiento científico y técnico especializado y con la mayor red científica mundial que existe. Este año, la Reserva de Biosfera de Itaipú ha pasado a formar parte de la Red Mundial de Reservas de Biosfera de la UNESCO.

33.5 Señores delegados: la política de colaboración de la UNESCO con los pueblos indígenas fortalecerá los principios consagrados en la declaración de las Naciones Unidas y coadyuvará en la promoción de los derechos de los pueblos originarios y la protección de sus conocimientos tradicionales y la diversidad cultural y lingüística. Con este espíritu, el Paraguay está organizando una conferencia sobre multilingüismo que se celebrará durante el primer trimestre del año 2018, la cual nos permitirá intercambiar experiencias y buenas prácticas sobre las ventajas y los desafíos que presentan las nuevas tecnologías en la preservación de la diversidad lingüística.

33.6 Participamos activamente en las consultas celebradas en Ginebra sobre el Plan de Acción de las Naciones Unidas sobre la Seguridad de los Periodistas y la Cuestión de la Impunidad y reiteramos nuestro compromiso de seguir trabajando para promover el acceso a la información, asegurar la libertad de expresión y propiciar entornos seguros y profesionales para el ejercicio del periodismo.

33.7 Destacamos la importancia del Programa Memoria del Mundo. Si bien el Programa funciona exitosamente en América Latina, somos conscientes de

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que ha presentado dificultades en otras regiones y, en tal sentido, consideramos oportuna la adopción de las recomendaciones de su Comité Consultivo Internacional (CCI) como un primer paso para mejorar el diálogo y la transparencia del Programa.

33.8 Por último, reiteramos el pleno compromiso del Paraguay con el multilateralismo como vía privilegiada para la resolución de los retos y problemas globales, de lo que da buen ejemplo el Acuerdo de Paris sobre el cambio climático, logro sin precedentes de la comunidad internacional. Por ello, el Paraguay apoyará la declaración de principios éticos en relación con el cambio climático en tanto que sea una contribución de la UNESCO en el marco exclusivo de sus competencias.

33.9 Señor Presidente, distinguidos colegas: al final de esta reunión tendremos un nuevo Director General. El Paraguay le reitera desde ya su compromiso por una UNESCO fuerte, eficiente, centrada en su mandato y a la altura de los desafíos. Muchas gracias.

(33.1) Paraguay in extenso (translation from the Spanish): Mr President of the General Conference, Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General, distinguished delegates, dear colleagues, today we begin a session at which we will be responsible for electing the person who will govern the fate of our Organization over the next four years, in a global context in which UNESCO’s mandate is increasingly important. Before continuing, I would like to extend special greetings to the Director-General, Ms Irina Bokova, express appreciation on behalf of Paraguay for her leadership as head of UNESCO and reiterate our gratitude and friendship.

(33.2) The Executive Board at this session has before it an extensive agenda, which has been shortened as a result of the intersessional meetings we had earlier. All the agenda items are essential for the future of the Organization – which is shaped, more than ever before, by the acute financial crisis affecting it. As at previous sessions, Paraguay reiterates that the payment of compulsory contributions to the regular budget is crucial for the functioning of the Organization and that late payments are, regrettably, an increasingly common practice that seriously jeopardizes the fulfilment of UNESCO’s mandate. At this session, we must adopt the programme and budget for the next biennium. We hope that documents 39 C/5 and 39 C/6 will reflect the prolonged consensus-building effort to allocate sufficient resources to regular budget programmes in accordance with the priorities defined by Member States.

(33.3) Mr Chairperson, education is at the heart of UNESCO’s mandate. Literacy, teacher training and higher education are essential for the effective implementation of Goal 4 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Making them a reality is our main challenge and, accordingly, we support the draft decision on literacy, taking into account the need to strengthen joint efforts to implement the Education 2030 agenda.

(33.4) Our region has been affected by various types of natural disaster. International solidarity and cooperation were essential for rescuing victims, protecting the environment and managing crises. We support the initiative to strengthen the emergency

response plan for natural disasters and the Strategy for the reinforcement of UNESCO’s action for the protection of culture and the promotion of cultural pluralism in the event of armed conflict – and also its action plan – as tools for safeguarding endangered heritage in different types of emergency situation. We fully support the prevention, risk reduction, and scientific and technological cooperation work carried out by IHP, IOC and MAB, since UNESCO has specialized scientific and technical knowledge in these areas, and there is a broader global scientific network. This year, the Itaipú Biosphere Reserve has become part of UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves.

(33.5) Distinguished delegates, UNESCO’s policy in relation to cooperation with indigenous peoples will strengthen the principles enshrined in the United Nations declaration and will contribute to promoting the rights of indigenous peoples and protecting their traditional knowledge and cultural and linguistic diversity. In this context, Paraguay is organizing a conference on multilingualism to be held in the first quarter of 2018, which will enable us to exchange experience and best practices on the benefits of and challenges posed by new technologies in preserving linguistic diversity.

(33.6) We are actively participating in the consultations held in Geneva on the United Nations Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity and reiterate our commitment to continue promoting access to information, guarantee freedom of expression and provide a safe and professional environment for the practice of journalism.

(33.7) We wish to highlight the importance of the Memory of the World Programme. While the Programme operates successfully in Latin America, we are aware that it has faced difficulties in other regions and we therefore welcome the adoption of the recommendations of its International Advisory Committee (IAC) as a first step towards improving Programme dialogue and transparency.

(33.8) Lastly, we reiterate that Paraguay is fully committed to multilateralism as the preferred approach to addressing global challenges and problems – a good example of this is the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, an unprecedented success for the international community. Accordingly, Paraguay will endorse the declaration of ethical principles in relation to climate change as a contribution from UNESCO in the context of its exclusive fields of competence.

(33.9) Mr Chairperson, distinguished colleagues, by the end of this session we will have a new Director-General. Paraguay wishes to reiterate its commitment to a strong and effective UNESCO that is focused on its mandate and rises to the challenges before it. Thank you very much.

34.1 Netherlands in extenso: As you know, Mr Chairperson, for everything there is always a last time. This will be your last time as Chair of the Board and it is also the last meeting that we have Ms Irina Bokova as our Director-General in Room X. How often have we heard Irina Bokova say “we are in the hands of the Member States”? I think you have all heard this often. Often it was a last resort to convince us, the

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Member States, that we should do as the Secretariat had suggested. But when some Member States stopped paying their contributions because they were unhappy with the decisions or possible decisions of this Organization, the Director-General was really in the hands of Member States. Dear Irina, I wish you could have spent more time on your vision for a new humanism than you had to spend on endless budget debates. Nevertheless, I admire the way you managed to keep UNESCO on the road and on track. Thank you for that and thank you for the personal cooperation these last four years.

34.2 It is also the last time for the Netherlands to be on the Executive Board. It has been a great honour and a pleasure for me, for my team and for all the other colleagues from the Netherlands. In a way, of course, we are sad that our term has come to an end, but we also believe strongly that rotation is good for the Organization. We think pseudo-permanent membership of the Executive Board is not a good practice.

34.3 The agenda of this Executive Board session is again overloaded. I wish UNESCO could adopt the famous motto of the minimalist architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe: “less is more”. The architects of this building, the Headquarters of UNESCO, especially Marcel Breuer, were influenced by people like him, but the minimalist aesthetics of this building have not inspired us to focus on what is essential. Fortunately, thanks to our last intersessional meeting, we have more items on the agenda now that do not need debate. One example of “less is more” on the agenda is the draft declaration of the ethical principles in relation to climate change, a declaration that is especially important for the small island developing States. UNESCO has a chance to clearly define our moral responsibilities in these matters and to reflect the importance of moral solidarity. With this, UNESCO can add another dimension to what has already been written into the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. By including more non-ethical elements in this declaration we lose focus and risk losing the whole declaration.

34.4 UNESCO is a fertile breeding ground for ideas and many important initiatives are launched with enthusiasm and creativity. This is a good thing and one of the most inspiring qualities of UNESCO but unfortunately, often enthusiasm alone is not enough. One item on our agenda is an example of a good initiative that has run into trouble. I refer to the Memory of the World Programme. The original idea of the Memory of the World Programme, when it was presented at the General Conference in 1993, was “to promote the safeguarding of libraries and archives and particularly endangered and unique collections and holdings in order to preserve the ‘‘Memory of the World’’ and to facilitate democratization of access to them”. In 2015, the General Conference underlined that “the importance of documentary heritage [is] to promote the sharing of knowledge for greater understanding and dialogue, in order to promote peace and respect for freedom, democracy, human rights and dignity”. The Memory of the World Register became the centrepiece of the programme and the registration of documentary heritage became almost a goal in itself and overshadowed, unfortunately, preservation and access and, more importantly, overshadowed the positive message of understanding and reconciliation. I bring this to your attention because I believe we need to keep this positive message of dialogue and the promotion of peace – the foundations of UNESCO itself – in mind when we discuss the Memory of the World Programme during this

Executive Board session. Thank you very much for your attention.

35.1 Brazil in extenso: Mr President of the General Conference, Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General, my dear colleagues, this session of the Executive Board is of great importance for the future of UNESCO. It takes place at a moment when there is widespread consensus on the need to reaffirm UNESCO’s essence and to reinforce its central role in the promotion of international cooperation in the fields of education, culture, sciences, communication and information on behalf of peace and development. Too much time and effort have been spent on political issues that transcend UNESCO’s mandate. The limitation of financial resources is hindering our capacity for action. It is the responsibility of all Member States to reflect on what we want this Organization to become, and this is a very appropriate moment for that. Let us not allow possibilities of cooperation to become sources of new conflicts. Let us concentrate our energies in the accomplishment of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, for which our work within the scope of UNESCO is indispensable.

35.2 As a founding member of UNESCO, Brazil remains committed to its noble objectives and engaged in the promotion of peace, solidarity, human dignity and social justice. It is with this spirit that high-level priority is given by my country to the promotion of education. We are proud to have joined the SDG-Education 2030 Steering Committee and to be contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 4 and the Education 2030 Agenda, for which UNESCO has primary responsibility. In this context, I take this opportunity to thank all the delegations that have extended their support for and co-sponsored item 44 of our agenda, highlighting the role of UNESCO in promoting literacy. I would like to reaffirm our commitment to working constructively for the accomplishment of a global convention on the recognition of higher education qualifications. We are also willing to explore the great potential for cooperation in the scope of the E-9 group of high-population countries, for the promotion of education in developing countries.

35.3 Dear colleagues, in line with our commitment to reinforcing UNESCO’s mandate, we will guide our actions with the understanding that science, technology and innovation must be fostered, given their role in enhancing inclusive economic growth and environmental sustainability. In this regard, we are honoured to be hosting the 8th World Water Forum, which will take place in Brasilia in March 2018. With the theme “Sharing water”, this event will provide important inputs for the implementation and monitoring of the “water Goal”, Sustainable Development Goal 6, within the scope of UNESCO’s International Hydrological Programme.

35.4 The promotion of cultural diversity and the protection of heritage are top priorities in our UNESCO agenda. Brazil has been actively cooperating with Portuguese and Spanish-speaking countries in capacity-building projects in this area in Latin America, in Africa and in Asia, and it is the desire to further expand this cooperation that is motivating our candidature to the World Heritage Committee. We look forward to this valuable opportunity to intensify our contribution to the

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protection of the world’s heritage.

35.5 Mr President, my dear colleagues, as our Director-General approaches the end of her term, Brazil takes this opportunity to pay tribute to Madam Irina Bokova for her dedicated work throughout the past eight years at the helm of UNESCO. We are grateful for the leadership that you, Madam Bokova, have demonstrated in your tireless defence of human rights, women’s empowerment, freedom of expression, cultural diversity and more inclusive education. Thank you all very much for your attention.

36.1 Bangladesh in extenso: Mr Chairperson, Mr President of the General Conference, Madam Director-General, distinguished representatives and delegates, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, I always feel honoured to address the UNESCO Executive Board as the representative of Bangladesh, as it gives me an opportunity not only to talk about people, peace and the planet but also to contribute to the work of UNESCO for the greater cause of humanity. But this time, with profound grief, I would like to inform you that presently Bangladesh is facing an unprecedented influx of Rohingya people due to atrocities and human rights violations in the Rakhine state of Myanmar. Now we are providing shelter and other humanitarian support for over 900,000 forcibly displaced Rohingya people from Myanmar. These innocent people are being brutally driven out of their own land where they have been living for centuries. The honourable Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Her Excellency Sheikh Hasina, proposed a five-point plan to resolve the issue at the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly. Bangladesh has urged immediate measures from Myanmar to stop the ongoing violence and ethnic cleansing in northern Rakhine and to take back all Myanmar nationals who have taken shelter in Bangladesh over the years, in safety, security and dignity. We call upon the international community to take effective measures in this regard.

36.2 Mr Chairperson, the Government of Bangladesh has undertaken massive programmes in all sectors to achieve the targets of the Sustainable Development Goals within the stipulated timeframe. In taking on the Sustainable Development Goal journey, Bangladesh has been inspired by the dreams of the father of the nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who had envisaged a prosperous Bangladesh with equal opportunities for all. We have already formulated the “perspective plan (2010–2021), in line with our two five-year plans, and have prepared a comprehensive action plan for all ministries and divisions to implement the Sustainable Development Goals. To ensure inclusive education, we are particularly addressing the needs of persons with disabilities, including autistic children, as well as ethnic minorities and marginalized people, including women. Since 2010, the Government of Bangladesh has been distributing textbooks, free of cost, among the students; last year, the Bangladeshi Government distributed 360 million free textbooks to the students of different grades. This has helped us to increase access to education and now we are moving to ensure the quality of education, which is one of the major challenges of Sustainable Development Goal 4.

36.3 Mr Chairperson, terrorism and violent extremism remain constant threats to peace, stability and development. Terrorists have no religion, belief or race.

We denounce the use of religion to justify violent extremism. In her speech, our honourable Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, informed the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly that “I have involved families, women, the youth, the media and religious leaders at the community level to offset the spread of violent extremism”. These initiatives have paid off at the national level.

36.4 Bangladesh greatly values the work of UNESCO in promoting and protecting the cultural heritage. Our Baul songs, our jamdani saris and a colourful procession on the first day of the Bengali new year named Mangal Shobhajatra now belong to the cultural heritage of humankind. Bangladesh is mindful of the importance of the preservation and protection of the outstanding universal value of world heritage sites. We shall continue to work with UNESCO to promote cultural diversity to build bridges across communities and nations.

36.5 Mr Chairperson, we firmly believe that there is great potential for the developing countries in science, technology and innovation. New sources of innovation and new ways of harnessing the power of science can resolve the rising critical challenges of humanity. Climate change impacts can reverse much of our development gains and Bangladesh remains on the frontline of that threat, but it has not surrendered to it. We have taken a number of adaptation and mitigation measures with our own resources.

36.6 Water has a significant role in shaping our culture and lifestyle. With a view to improving living conditions through better water management, Bangladesh is now formulating a “delta plan”. In this regard, Bangladesh would like to collaborate more with the International Hydrological Programme (IHP). Bangladesh, in line with the objectives of the blue economy, is determined to initiate appropriate programmes for the sustainable harnessing of the resources of the sea and for carrying out research to develop relevant sectors of oceanography. Bangladesh also commends the capacity-development initiatives of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) and would like to build closer cooperation with the Commission.

36.7 Excellencies, as my tenure as the representative of Bangladesh to the Executive Board is going to end at this session, I take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks and gratitude to all the Members of the Board for your support and cooperation. On behalf of the Government of Bangladesh, I would like to express deep appreciation and sincere thanks to the Director-General, Ms Irina Bokova, for her dynamic and outstanding role in heading this Organization at a very crucial period. Being also the Chairperson of the Committee on Conventions and Recommendations (CR), I would like to express my gratitude to all the Members of the Committee and the relevant UNESCO officials, the Secretariat and all concerned for the sincere support and cooperation that you have extended during my chairmanship. After the four years of our journey together in the Executive Board, I can only express my feelings by quoting a few lines from T.S. Eliot: “But what have I, but what have I, my friend,/ to give you, what can you receive from me?/ Only the friendship and the sympathy/…”. Thank you, Mr Chairperson. Thank you all.

The meeting rose at 1 p.m.

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SECOND MEETING

Monday 9 October 2017 at 3.15 p.m.


REPORTING ITEMS (continued)

Item 4: Execution of the programme adopted by the General Conference (continued)

Item 4.I: Programme execution (202 EX/4.INF; 202 EX/4.INF.3) (continued)

Item 4.II: Budgetary situation of the Organization for 2016-2017 (38 C/5 approved as adjusted) as at 30 June 2017, Budget adjustments arising from donations and special contributions received and Management Chart for Programme Execution in 2016-2017 (38 C/5 approved as adjusted) Status as at 31 December 2016 (202 EX/4 Part II; 202 EX/4.INF.2) (continued)

Item 5: Follow-up to decisions and resolutions adopted by the Executive Board and the General Conference at their previous sessions (continued)

Item 5.I: Programme issues (202 EX/5 Part I; 202 EX/5.INF) (continued)

Item 5.II: Evaluation issues (202 EX/5 Part II Rev.) (continued)

Item 5.III: Management issues (202 EX/5 Part III; 202 EX/5.INF.2; 202 EX/5.INF.4; 202 EX/5.INF.3) (continued)

Item 5.IV: Human resources issues (202 EX/5 Part IV and Addenda) (continued)

PROGRAMMING AND BUDGETING (continued)

Item 19: Draft Programme and Budget for 2018-2021 (39 C/5) (Draft 39 C/5; 202 EX/19; 202 EX/19.INF) (continued)

Plenary debate (continued)

1.1 France in extenso : Messieurs les présidents, Madame la Directrice générale, Mesdames et Messieurs les membres du Conseil, Ministres et Ambassadeurs, Mesdames, Messieurs, depuis plus de 70 ans maintenant, l’UNESCO œuvre au développement de la solidarité intellectuelle et morale de l’humanité, pour l’établissement d’une paix durable. L’humanité est aujourd’hui face à d’immenses défis, qui font peser un risque sur sa sécurité, sa fraternité, sa diversité. Plusieurs décennies après sa création, les missions et les valeurs de l’UNESCO sont plus que jamais d’actualité. Nous devons les faire vivre. La France sera au rendez-vous.

1.2 Elle sera au rendez-vous en tant qu’État du Siège de l’UNESCO. C’est une position qui nous honore, autant qu’elle nous oblige. Nous savons les responsabilités qu’elle implique. La France considère qu’elle a une responsabilité particulière par rapport à cette organisation. L’UNESCO traverse une période de fragilité, elle doit s’adapter au monde en évolution rapide. Elle a besoin pour cela, à sa tête, d’une personnalité qui incarne l’esprit de l’UNESCO et qui porte une ambition pour l’UNESCO ; d’une personnalité dynamique et imaginative, qui saura trouver des solutions innovantes et des ressources supplémentaires ; d’une personnalité pouvant s’appuyer sur un pays qui sera un soutien indéfectible de l’UNESCO, la France. Cette personnalité s’appelle Audrey Azoulay. Il

était important pour moi d’être ici aujourd’hui pour soutenir la candidature de celle qui m’a précédée au Ministère de la culture. Ma présence aujourd’hui ici est aussi la preuve de la continuité de l’engagement français au soutien de l’UNESCO. La France continuera de s’engager, comme toujours, pour œuvrer aux missions fondamentales de l’UNESCO : rapprocher les hommes par l’éducation, la science et la culture.

1.3 En matière d’éducation, notre pays continuera à s’investir particulièrement, comme il le fait depuis longtemps. C’est la priorité affichée de notre politique de développement. L’éducation a notamment un rôle capital à jouer dans la prévention de la radicalisation. La France sera là pour accompagner cette ambition. Elle contribue aux travaux du Comité directeur ODD – Éducation 2030. L’UNESCO doit rester chef de file pour sa mise en œuvre.

1.4 La France continuera de s’engager, ensuite, pour soutenir l’ambition de l’UNESCO dans le domaine des sciences. Nous souhaitons rendre hommage au travail effectué par l’Organisation. Il faut le poursuivre, et s’unir pour obtenir davantage de fonds extrabudgétaires. Qu’il nous soit permis ici de manifester clairement notre attachement au maintien et au développement du Programme international relatif aux sciences fondamentales. C’est un pont indispensable entre l’UNESCO et la communauté scientifique tout entière. Nous souhaitons mentionner enfin le projet de décision déposé par la France et l’Italie sur le Programme Mémoire de la glace : il ouvre des perspectives essentielles pour la sauvegarde des données scientifiques contenues dans les glaciers de haute montagne, qui sont aujourd’hui menacées par le réchauffement climatique.

1.5 La France s’engage, par ailleurs, pour défendre et promouvoir l’une des valeurs phares de l’UNESCO : la protection et la promotion de la diversité des expressions culturelles. C’est un terrain de vigilance particulier, à l’heure du numérique. La France a porté, avec le Canada, des directives opérationnelles sur le numérique, à l’occasion de la dernière Conférence des États parties à la Convention de 2005 sur la protection et la promotion de la diversité des expressions culturelles. Tous les États se sont accordés sur la qualité de ce texte, et nous nous félicitons de son adoption.

1.6 La protection du patrimoine, bien commun de l’humanité, est un autre enjeu phare. Le musée du Louvre a accueilli, le 20 mars dernier, la première conférence des donateurs de l’Alliance internationale pour la protection du patrimoine dans les zones en conflit (Fondation ALIPH). La Fondation a permis de collecter près de 76 millions de dollars auprès de donateurs publics. Ses actions futures devront s’inscrire dans une coordination étroite avec l’UNESCO, qui siège au Conseil de la Fondation. La France a par ailleurs été élue pour deux ans, en mai dernier, à la présidence de la Convention de 2001 sur la protection du patrimoine culturel subaquatique. Elle s’attachera à sensibiliser les États et le public à la valeur de cet instrument.

1.7 La France continuera de s’engager, enfin, pour la liberté d’expression et la sécurité des journalistes. Elle appuie la création d’un poste de représentant spécial pour la sécurité des journalistes auprès du Secrétaire général de l’Organisation des Nations Unies.

1.8 La France s’engage pour l’UNESCO, avec l’UNESCO. Nous savons les difficultés auxquelles fait face notre Organisation. Les facteurs budgétaires en sont une dimension importante. La discussion arrive aujourd’hui à

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un point décisif, qui engage le devenir de l’Organisation. Notre conviction est que la meilleure manière de surmonter ces difficultés, pour l’UNESCO, est de se montrer fidèle à ses valeurs, à ses combats, à ses ambitions.

1.9 En choisissant sa prochaine directrice ou son prochain directeur général(e), l’UNESCO se choisit un avenir. La France a décidé de présenter la candidature d’Audrey Azoulay, parce qu’elle incarne l’exigence de l’éducation, la science et la culture qui est au cœur de notre Organisation. Et qui est le cœur de la réponse aux grands défis de l’humanité, qu’il s’agisse du défi climatique, sécuritaire ou démographique.

1.10 Ces défis, aucun de nos États ne pourra les relever seul. Comme l’a dit le Président de la République française, c’est par la voie d’un multilatéralisme fort et responsable que nous y parviendrons. Que nous tracerons des chemins d’avenir pour l’humanité. La France est déterminée à s’y engager.

2.1 India in extenso: Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General, distinguished delegates, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, while I applaud UNESCO's significant effort in shaping the world discourse in the essential fields of education, culture, science and communications, all of us present here today are cognizant of the deep crisis affecting this great Organization. Mahatma Gandhi, the apostle of peace and crusader for non-violence, wrote a letter in 1947 to Dr Julian Huxley, Director-General of UNESCO, which has great relevance for us today. Gandhi had said: “... I learnt from my illiterate but wise mother that all rights to be deserved and preserved came from duty well done. The very right to live accrues to us only when we do the duty of citizenship of the world”.

2.2 The world order has changed completely since the formation of this Organization but the desire to see a just world, a “good world” burns unabated in us all. The understanding of it changes with each generation, and there always remain great swathes of overlapping concerns, which require nations to work towards common goals, vital to human existence and progress. UNESCO provides the world community a space to allow such cooperation and synergies to develop, and has rightly been described as the “conscience of the world” and “a laboratory of ideas”. These common goals of humanity have been enshrined in the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). India is fully committed to the attainment of these Goals by 2030, and shares UNESCO's priorities with a focus on the education of the girl child. The recently established UNESCO Chair on Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment at Amrita University is a first in India and among the very few globally. India is adopting innovative strategies in education, actively promoting open educational resources (OER) and has launched the National Digital Literacy Mission. We believe that obtaining quality education is the foundation to improving people's lives and sustainable development. The Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (MGIEP), a category 1 institute in Delhi jointly set up by UNESCO and the Government of India, has made commendable progress since its inception four years ago and is steadily developing into an institute of global importance.

2.3 In the cultural domain, India applauds UNESCO's efforts in the adoption of operational guidelines on the

implementation of the Convention for Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions in a digital environment. We were gratified that the walled city of Ahmedabad, founded in the fifteenth century, has flourished as the capital of the state of Gujarat for the last six centuries and is now the heritage of all humanity. Auroville, a unique multicultural, multilingual, multinational township in South India, will celebrate its fiftieth anniversary next year. UNESCO has already adopted four resolutions supporting Auroville, and we hope that another will be adopted by the General Conference on the occasion of the township’s golden jubilee.

2.4 Climate change action is our most crucial responsibility, failing which we will be held guilty for grave dereliction by future generations. At UNESCO, India has participated in formulating a declaration of ethical principles in relation to climate change so that an intellectual discussion can be facilitated regarding responsibilities, loss and damage with respect to climate change. The historic Paris Agreement on Climate Change must be supported in every way.

2.5 I commend UNESCO's leading role in promoting science. The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services, in Hyderabad, was approved by the UNESCO Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) in June this year to be established as a category 2 centre for oceanography. India has also increased the quantum of prize money for the Kalinga Prize for the Popularization of Science from the current cycle.

2.6 There is an urgent need for UNESCO to focus on a prioritization of its programmes and activities, phasing out those that over time have lost their relevance and eliminating duplication. The adoption of a fresh programme and budget for 2018-21 (39 C/5) at the 39th session of the General Conference, under new leadership, allows us a rare opportunity to make a transition to a stronger Organization. India will support any constructive effort in this direction. We have been ardent supporters of UNESCO since its inception and in its mandated areas particularly and we remain committed to the Organization's goals.

2.7 Today is also an occasion for farewells. The election of a new Director-General is an occasion to look to the past and to the future. We all appreciate the manner in which our outgoing Director-General, Irina Bokova, has guided UNESCO through one of its most difficult financial crises. We commend her for the leadership she has provided to UNESCO over the last eight years and wish her well for the future. Having had the privilege of being India's representative on the Executive Board for the same eight years, I now take leave of this august assembly as my term expires this year. I warmly greet my fellow Members of the Executive Board and wish UNESCO well for the years and decades ahead as the world hurtles into an indeterminate and challenging future.

3.1 República Dominicana (Vicepresidente por el Grupo III) in extenso:

Señor Presidente de la Conferencia General, señor Presidente del Consejo Ejecutivo, señora Directora General, estimados y estimadas colegas: antes que nada, agradecemos las palabras de solidaridad del Presidente del Consejo Ejecutivo, la Directora General y los Estados Miembros para con las regiones y naciones de América Latina y el Caribe que han sufrido eventos climatológicos y telúricos.

3.2 Para América Latina y el Caribe, la elección del

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nuevo Director o Directora General de la UNESCO es la decisión más trascendente que deberá adoptar el Consejo Ejecutivo en esta su 202ª reunión. Nuestro futuro depende en gran parte de ello. A pesar de la complejidad y la magnitud de los desafíos que la nueva administración deberá enfrentar, creemos que nos encontramos al mismo tiempo frente a una enorme oportunidad para fortalecer la Organización. Para ello, la nueva autoridad ejecutiva deberá contribuir de manera más transparente, junto con los Estados Miembros, a resolver la grave situación financiera de la Organización, asociada a la enorme morosidad en el pago de las contribuciones. También deberá impulsar los cambios que la UNESCO requiere para reforzar su carácter intergubernamental y su liderazgo internacional en sus ámbitos de competencia, así como en la consecución de los objetivos de la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo Sostenible.

3.3 Señor Presidente: debemos recordar aquí que la situación financiera constituye uno de los principales obstáculos para que la Organización pueda cumplir sus objetivos y aplicar sus programas. En este contexto, marcado por restricciones presupuestarias y financieras, debemos tratar de perfeccionar nuestros métodos administrativos internos y asegurar que los Estados Miembros cumplan sus obligaciones. Debemos ser eficaces y creativos. Muchos han sido los avances, pero debemos hacer aún más.

3.4 En esta reunión del Consejo Ejecutivo tendremos la oportunidad de trabajar en los documentos 39 C/5 y 39 C/6, que nos darán, en su conjunto, orientaciones presupuestarias y programáticas para el próximo ejercicio. Además, por primera vez, nos beneficiaremos del nuevo formato de estos dos documentos, basado en la integración presupuestaria. En este marco, reiteramos que el presupuesto ordinario debe asegurar que todos los sectores cuenten con recursos financieros suficientes, de acuerdo con las prioridades definidas por los Estados Miembros. En consecuencia, debemos lograr que esta integración entre el presupuesto ordinario y los fondos extrapresupuestarios nos ayude a obtener mayor transparencia y a conferir la máxima eficacia a la Organización en la asignación y gestión de los fondos. Esto será esencial para crear condiciones de trabajo propicias al diálogo estructurado sobre financiación con miras a obtener una mayor cantidad de recursos.

3.5 Estimados delegados: los recientes fenómenos naturales que han golpeado severamente varios países latinoamericanos y pequeños Estados insulares en desarrollo caribeños evidencian la necesidad de trabajar en escenarios internacionales para construir respuestas globales de adaptación y mitigación. En este marco, el GRULAC considera igualmente imperativo fortalecer el plan de emergencia de la UNESCO destinado a intervenir en situaciones posteriores a un desastre, otorgándole un financiamiento suficiente con cargo al presupuesto ordinario.

3.6 Asimismo, el GRULAC reitera la necesidad de asegurar, en el marco del documento 39 C/5 y las contribuciones voluntarias, un financiamiento adecuado de la “Estrategia para reforzar la labor de la UNESCO en materia de protección de la cultura y promoción del pluralismo cultural en caso de conflicto armado” y del plan de acción conexo, al cual se ha incorporado el tema de los desastres naturales. En este contexto, alentamos a la UNESCO a establecer un mecanismo que permita integrar de manera eficaz y coherente las convenciones culturales y los objetivos enunciados en dicha estrategia.

3.7 Por otro lado, el GRULAC expresa su desacuerdo con la recomendación del Auditor Externo de cerrar el Fondo Internacional para la Promoción de la Cultura (FIPC), recomendación que no suscribe el Consejo de Administración del Fondo. Por ello solicitamos a la Directora General que inicie un proceso de consultas con los Estados Miembros que permita evaluar de forma transparente el futuro de dicho Fondo.

3.8 También reafirmamos nuestro compromiso con la política de la UNESCO de colaboración con los pueblos indígenas, punto 9 del orden del día de esta reunión del Consejo, convencidos como estamos de que contribuirá a la promoción y la defensa de la paz, la diversidad cultural, las lenguas originarias, el desarrollo sostenible y el respeto de los derechos humanos de los pueblos indígenas.

3.9 Señor Presidente: el GRULAC ratifica su más firme compromiso con la educación y la labor central de los docentes en la consecución del objetivo 4 de la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo Sostenible, a fin de asegurar un aprendizaje de calidad, inclusivo y equitativo en todos los niveles de enseñanza. En este sentido, el GRULAC reitera su preocupación por la cifra alarmante de al menos 750 millones de jóvenes y adultos que aún no saben leer ni escribir, entendiendo que este es uno de los principales desafíos que deberá encarar la UNESCO para promover la alfabetización a nivel mundial. Por ello nuestra región apoya el proyecto de decisión correspondiente al punto 44 del orden del día. El papel de la UNESCO es clave para alcanzar los objetivos marcados para 2030 en relación con la educación, razón por la cual el GRULAC reitera su apoyo a la labor del Comité de Dirección ODS - Educación 2030. En lo tocante a la educación superior, agradecemos a la Secretaría que en el documento 39 C/5 se mantenga un adecuado nivel de financiamiento de las actividades del IESALC destinadas a fomentar la movilidad académica, la formación técnica y profesional y las buenas prácticas.

3.10 Señor Presidente: hoy, en momentos de una amplia reflexión sobre el multilateralismo y sobre posibles reformas del sistema de Naciones Unidas y sus organismos con miras a su adaptación para apoyar a los países en la implementación de la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo Sostenible, manifestamos nuestra voluntad de lograr una mayor visibilidad de los programas que la UNESCO lidera desde el Sector de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales en beneficio de sus Estados Miembros. El liderazgo de la UNESCO en el terreno de la ciencia debe fortalecerse en todo el sistema de las Naciones Unidas, de manera que las actividades y resultados en ciencia, tecnología e innovación de programas como el Programa Hidrológico Internacional o el Programa sobre el Hombre y la Biosfera sigan contribuyendo a la preservación del medio ambiente, la sostenibilidad de la diversidad biológica y la lucha contra el cambio climático.

3.11 Estimados colegas: volver a las humanidades resulta prioritario para concretar en la práctica el mandato de la UNESCO en la construcción de la paz. De ahí la importancia del Sector de Ciencias Sociales y Humanas y de programas como el Programa MOST, que deben ser fortalecidos para contribuir cada vez más a las políticas de transformación social destinadas a la lucha contra las desigualdades y la erradicación de la pobreza, con una clara vinculación con los contextos regionales. Por otra parte, la UNESCO debe profundizar en su compromiso con los jóvenes y promover su participación. A este respecto, encontramos en el Plan de Acción de Kazán y

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en la Convención Internacional contra el Dopaje en el Deporte dos grandes medios para empoderar a las nuevas y futuras generaciones.

3.12 Señor Presidente: las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación pueden ser una poderosa herramienta para reducir las desigualdades y promover un bienestar sostenible. En este contexto, el Sector de Comunicación e Información cumple dos objetivos fundamentales de la UNESCO: la promoción de la libertad de expresión y el acceso a la información y el desarrollo de las comunicaciones. Estos dos parámetros, que incluyen las actividades del PIDC y el PIPT, deben igualmente ser prioritarios. La reciente reunión de expertos sobre la DarkNet, la “red oscura”, permitió al PIPT ejercer plenamente su papel, fomentando una reflexión novedosa alrededor de temáticas societales de gran importancia.

3.13 Señor Presidente, estimados colegas: para terminar, el GRULAC expresa su reconocimiento al Grupo de trabajo de composición abierta sobre gobernanza y espera que sus recomendaciones impulsen de manera eficaz y coherente las reformas políticas y administrativas que requiere la UNESCO, las cuales incluyen la reafirmación del liderazgo de la Conferencia General como el más universal de sus órganos rectores. Por ello ratificamos nuestro más firme compromiso para que el proceso de la gobernanza marque el inicio de una nueva era para la Organización y sirva para ratificar sus objetivos fundacionales, su carácter intergubernamental y su contribución ética e intelectual a la paz y el desarrollo sostenible. Muchas gracias.

(3.1) République dominicaine (Vice-Président pour le Groupe III) in extenso (traduit de l’espagnol) :

Monsieur le Président de la Conférence générale, Monsieur le Président du Conseil exécutif, Madame la Directrice générale, chers collègues, je souhaite avant toute chose remercier le Président du Conseil exécutif, la Directrice générale et les États membres pour les témoignages de solidarité qu’ils ont adressés aux régions et aux nations d’Amérique latine et des Caraïbes touchées par les récentes catastrophes climatiques et telluriques.

(3.2) Aux yeux de l’Amérique latine et des Caraïbes, l’élection du nouveau directeur général ou de la nouvelle directrice générale de l’UNESCO est la décision la plus importante que prendra le Conseil exécutif à sa 202e session. Notre avenir en dépend largement. Si les défis que devra relever la nouvelle administration sont vastes et complexes, nous estimons également qu’il y a là une excellente occasion de renforcer l’Organisation. Pour cela, le nouveau pouvoir exécutif devra s’atteler, avec les États membres et dans un esprit de plus grande transparence, à remédier à la grave situation financière dans laquelle se trouve l’Organisation, ainsi qu’aux retards considérables observés dans le versement des contributions. Il devra également provoquer les changements nécessaires pour renforcer le caractère intergouvernemental de l’Organisation et consolider son rôle de chef de file international, tant dans ses domaines de compétence que dans la réalisation des Objectifs du Programme de développement durable à l’horizon 2030.

(3.3) Monsieur le Président, nous devons rappeler ici que la situation financière de l’Organisation

constitue l’un des principaux obstacles à la réalisation de ses objectifs et à l’application de ses programmes. Dans ce contexte marqué par les restrictions budgétaires et financières, nous devons essayer d’améliorer notre fonctionnement administratif interne et veiller à ce que les États membres honorent leurs obligations. Nous devons être efficaces et créatifs. Les progrès ont été nombreux, mais nous devons aller plus loin.

(3.4) Lors de la présente session du Conseil exécutif, nous aurons l’occasion de travailler sur les documents 39 C/5 et 39 C/6, qui, ensemble, nous offriront des orientations budgétaires et programmatiques pour le prochain exercice. En outre, nous bénéficierons pour la première fois du nouveau format de ces deux documents, fondé sur un cadre budgétaire intégré. À ce titre, nous rappelons que le budget ordinaire doit garantir des ressources financières suffisantes à tous les secteurs, conformément aux priorités établies par les États membres. Par conséquent, nous devons faire en sorte que ce budget intégré, qui englobe le budget ordinaire et les fonds extrabudgétaires, permette une plus grande transparence et une efficacité maximale de l’Organisation en ce qui concerne l’affectation et la gestion des fonds. Cela est indispensable si l’on souhaite mettre en place des conditions de travail propices à la tenue d’un dialogue structuré sur le financement, en vue d’obtenir davantage de moyens.

(3.5) Chers délégués, les phénomènes naturels qui ont récemment frappé plusieurs pays d’Amérique latine et bon nombre de petits États insulaires en développement des Caraïbes révèlent combien il est nécessaire de travailler à l’élaboration de scénarios à l’échelle internationale, pour concevoir des réponses globales d’adaptation et d’atténuation. Dans ce cadre, le Groupe de l’Amérique latine et des Caraïbes (GRULAC) estime également qu’il est impératif de renforcer le plan d’urgence d’intervention dans les situations de post-catastrophe de l’UNESCO, en lui accordant un financement suffisant au titre du budget ordinaire.

(3.6) En outre, le GRULAC rappelle qu’il nous faut garantir, dans le cadre du document 39 C/5 et des contributions volontaires, un financement adéquat pour la « Stratégie de renforcement de l’action de l’UNESCO pour la protection de la culture et la promotion du pluralisme culturel en cas de conflit armé » et son plan d’action, lequel prend également en charge la question des catastrophes naturelles. Dans ce contexte, nous encourageons l’UNESCO à mettre en place un mécanisme permettant d’intégrer de façon efficace et rationnelle les conventions culturelles et les objectifs énoncés dans ladite stratégie.

(3.7) D’autre part, le GRULAC souhaite exprimer son désaccord concernant la recommandation du Commissaire aux comptes, qui préconise de fermer le Fonds international pour la promotion de la culture (FIPC) et que conteste le Conseil d’administration du Fonds. C’est pourquoi nous demandons à la Directrice générale de lancer un processus de consultation des États membres, permettant d’évaluer en toute transparence le futur du FIPC.

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(3.8) Nous réaffirmons également notre engagement en faveur de la politique de collaboration avec les peuples autochtones de l’UNESCO, qui fait l’objet du point 9 de l’ordre du jour de la présente session du Conseil, car nous sommes convaincus qu’elle contribuera à la promotion et à la défense de la paix, de la diversité culturelle, des langues originelles, du développement durable et du respect des droits fondamentaux des peuples autochtones.

(3.9) Monsieur le Président, le GRULAC réitère son plus ferme engagement en faveur de l’éducation et des enseignants, qui jouent un rôle central dans la réalisation de l’ODD 4, visant à assurer à tous une éducation équitable, inclusive et de qualité, à tous les niveaux de l’enseignement. À cet égard, le GRULAC, conscient qu’il s’agit là de l’un des principaux défis à relever par l’UNESCO pour promouvoir l’alphabétisation au niveau mondial, tient à rappeler son inquiétude face au nombre alarmant de jeunes et d’adultes ne sachant ni lire ni écrire, qui s’élève à plus de 750 millions. C’est pourquoi notre région soutient le projet de décision correspondant au point 44 de l’ordre du jour. L’UNESCO a un rôle déterminant à jouer dans la réalisation des ODD relatifs à l’éducation, et c’est la raison pour laquelle le GRULAC réaffirme son soutien à l’action du Comité directeur – Éducation 2030. En ce qui concerne l’enseignement supérieur, nous remercions le Secrétariat d’avoir veillé à ce que, dans le document 39 C/5, le financement des activités de l’Institut international de l’UNESCO pour l’enseignement supérieur en Amérique latine et dans les Caraïbes (IESALC) dédiées à la promotion de la mobilité universitaire, de la formation technique et professionnelle et des bonnes pratiques, soit maintenu à un niveau adéquat.

(3.10) Monsieur le Président, alors que s’est engagée une vaste réflexion sur le multilatéralisme et sur d’éventuelles réformes des organismes du système des Nations Unies, destinée à aider les pays à mettre en œuvre le Programme de développement durable à l’horizon 2030, nous souhaitons améliorer la visibilité des programmes dirigés par le Secteur des sciences exactes et naturelles de l’UNESCO au profit des États membres. Le rôle de chef de file de l’UNESCO dans le domaine des sciences doit être renforcé à travers l’ensemble du système des Nations Unies, de façon à ce que les activités et les résultats des initiatives menées dans le domaine des sciences, de la technologie et de l’innovation, comme le Programme hydrologique international (PHI) ou le Programme sur l’Homme et la biosphère (MAB), continuent à contribuer à la préservation de l’environnement, à la durabilité de la diversité biologique et à la lutte contre le changement climatique.

(3.11) Chers collègues, afin de mettre en pratique le mandat de l’UNESCO en matière de construction de la paix, il est indispensable de revenir aux sciences humaines. C’est pourquoi le Secteur des sciences sociales et humaines et des programmes comme le Programme MOST sont importants et doivent être renforcés, pour contribuer toujours davantage aux politiques de transformation sociale visant à lutter contre les inégalités et à éliminer la pauvreté, en lien avec les contextes régionaux. D’autre part, l’UNESCO doit renforcer son engagement auprès des jeunes et encourager leur participation. À ce titre, le Plan

d’action de Kazan et la Convention internationale contre le dopage dans le sport sont deux instruments notables pour autonomiser les jeunes d’aujourd’hui et de demain.

(3.12) Monsieur le Président, les technologies de l’information et de la communication peuvent être des outils efficaces pour réduire les inégalités et favoriser la prospérité durable. Dans ce contexte, le Secteur de la communication et de l’information répond à deux objectifs essentiels de l’UNESCO : la promotion de la liberté d’expression d’une part, et l’accès à l’information et le développement des communications d’autre part. Ces deux paramètres, qui incluent les activités du Programme international pour le développement de la communication (PIDC) et du Programme Information pour tous (PIPT), doivent également être prioritaires. La réunion d’experts récemment organisée sur le dark Web, ou « Internet sombre », a permis au PIPT de jouer pleinement son rôle, en favorisant une réflexion innovante autour de thématiques sociétales fondamentales.

(3.13) Monsieur le Président, chers collègues, pour conclure, le GRULAC souhaite exprimer sa reconnaissance au Groupe de travail à composition non limitée sur la gouvernance et espère que ses recommandations encourageront de manière efficace et rationnelle les réformes politiques et administratives dont l’UNESCO a besoin, parmi lesquelles la réaffirmation du rôle prépondérant de la Conférence générale en tant qu’organe directeur le plus universel de l’Organisation. C’est la raison pour laquelle nous nous engageons fermement à faire en sorte que le processus de réforme de la gouvernance marque le début d’une nouvelle ère pour l’Organisation et permette de réaffirmer ses objectifs fondamentaux, son caractère intergouvernemental et sa contribution éthique et intellectuelle à la paix et au développement durable. Je vous remercie.

4.1 Lithuania in extenso: Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General, dear colleagues, though different in their nature, the challenges that UNESCO is facing also have something in common: they speak of our present experience as inherently shaping our future. Arising challenges forcibly remind us of the value of solidarity, which is also the founding principle of a sustainable tomorrow. UNESCO has always been a trustworthy partner for all of us to build such a tomorrow.

4.2 It is not by chance that Lithuania, for the second consecutive year, contributed, together with the Netherlands and Finland, to UNESCO’s International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC) talks to celebrate International Day for Universal Access to Information. This event provided the opportunity to make a forceful statement on the liberating power of information and its contributions to attaining the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Objective information, just like education, is an invaluable source of critical thinking, the sphere in which the international community continues to count on UNESCO’s crucial efforts.

4.3 This year we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Memory of the World Programme, whose objectives have not lost their relevance. The preservation of documentary heritage and access to it are never only about the past. The Programme equally speaks to our present and future:

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it is only by better understanding our past and that of others that we can strive for a more peaceful tomorrow. There are conflicting memories, but blocking those of others and silencing contradictory voices does not lead to reconciliation and peace. As much transparency as possible can be part of the solution to the current challenges the Programme is facing.

4.4 We know all too well the feeling of shock at witnessing the results of a course of action deviating from established international norms. Lithuania recognizes the importance of UNESCO’s active and direct involvement in solving the relevant challenges in its fields of competence in Crimea (Ukraine).

4.5 Dear colleagues, let us not wait for tragic events to make us commit to our future. Within UNESCO, we have all the necessary determination and the most valuable means ever of strengthening collective action. We will remain indebted to the outgoing Director-General, Ms Irina Bokova, for her efforts to make our Organization count. My country is ready, together with all the Member States, to make a difference in the name of our shared future under the leadership of the upcoming Director-General.

5.1 Argentina in extenso: Gracias, señor Presidente. La UNESCO, debilitada por problemas económicos y políticos, renueva hoy sus esperanzas. Si sabemos elegir, tendremos un liderazgo con capacidad de gestión y de negociación: de gestión aquí en París, y de negociación en las capitales de grandes naciones que han perdido parte de su interés en la UNESCO. No esperemos soluciones mágicas como las que a veces hemos pedido a la Directora General saliente. Lo que necesitamos ahora no es magia, sino una conducción con ideas frescas y con la fortaleza y perseverancia que requieren las grandes reformas. No aguardemos a que todo provenga del sexto piso de esta casa. Las 195 delegaciones somos colectivamente responsables de lo bueno y lo malo que tiene la UNESCO. Nuestra primera obligación es recuperar el gran prestigio y la influencia que la Organización tuvo en materia de educación, ciencia y cultura, muy especialmente en educación. Por supuesto, todos hacemos día a día esfuerzos por difundir la educación en el mundo, y nuestra contribución a la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo Sostenible es prueba de ello. Hemos puesto dedicación y trabajo en temas como la educación de los países afectados por conflictos armados, las migraciones masivas o la desigualdad de género en las aulas. Pero debemos ir más allá. La idea de “educación inclusiva y de calidad” no puede reducirse a un eslogan. Debemos trabajar eficazmente en el qué y el cómo, aportando a los países proyectos concretos que permitan implementar políticas educativas innovadoras y eficaces. Tenemos para hacerlo teóricos y expertos, y la posibilidad de sumar a nuestras ideas el análisis de la estructura educativa y los métodos de enseñanza de países que están entre nosotros y que han escrito en materia de educación verdaderas historias de éxito.

5.2 En lo que concierne a la ciencia y la sociedad, nuestras preocupaciones actuales están vinculadas a la agresión que sufre la naturaleza por obra humana, al cambio climático y a las amenazas que el deterioro ambiental representa para la vida y la calidad de vida. No obstante, debemos asegurarnos de no tener solo una visión política o sociológica de la ecología. Por supuesto, la UNESCO tiene el mandato de conciliar educación, ciencia y cultura. Claro está que debe ocuparse de

promover la conciencia ecológica y la educación ambiental, pero el diagnóstico y el pronóstico de los problemas ambientales exigen de ella un trabajo más interdisciplinario en las esferas de la biología en general, las ciencias ambientales, las ciencias de la tierra y las ciencias del mar. Debemos ampliar lo que hemos hecho, por ejemplo, en cuanto a la biosfera y la oceanografía.

5.3 Por lo que respecta a las finanzas de la Organización, no podemos negar las dificultades que nos impone la insuficiencia financiera, pero debemos preguntarnos qué uso le damos a cada euro, cuál es nuestra productividad y cuánto más podríamos hacer con los mismos recursos.

5.4 Se trata, por lo tanto, de que busquemos soluciones concretas y prácticas a los problemas relacionados con la educación, el medio ambiente y la economía de la Organización. Y todo esto debemos hacerlo con sentido de urgencia. Un proverbio chino dice: “apresúrate, que es más tarde de lo que tú crees”. No creamos que tenemos tiempo. No nos detengamos en discusiones estériles. No nos comportemos rutinariamente. Nuestro esfuerzo ayudará a resolver los problemas de la UNESCO, incluso los problemas económicos, porque a partir de cierto punto el aumento de los recursos es proporcional al aumento del respeto que merece, y la utilidad que tiene, una organización como esta. Sepamos elegir hoy y asumamos nuestras responsabilidades sin descanso. Gracias.

(5.1) Argentine in extenso (traduit de l’espagnol) : Merci, Monsieur le Président. L’UNESCO, touchée par des difficultés économiques et politiques, reprend aujourd’hui espoir. Si nous choisissons avec discernement, notre directeur sera en capacité de gérer et de négocier. Il pourra assurer la gestion ici, à Paris, et les négociations dans les capitales de grandes nations qui se sont en partie désintéressées de l’Organisation. Nous n’espérons pas de solutions magiques, comme celles que nous avons parfois réclamées à la Directrice générale sortante. Ce n’est pas de la magie qu’il nous faut, mais une direction qui fasse valoir des idées nouvelles et qui témoigne de force et de persévérance, qualités indispensables aux grandes réformes. Cependant, ne nous attendons pas à ce que tout émane du sixième étage de cette Maison. Les 195 délégations sont collectivement responsables des bons comme des mauvais aspects de l’UNESCO. Notre première obligation consiste à retrouver l’immense prestige et l’influence dont jouissait l’Organisation en matière de science, de culture et plus particulièrement, d’éducation. Bien entendu, nous nous efforçons tous quotidiennement de diffuser l’éducation dans le monde : notre contribution au Programme de développement durable à l’horizon 2030 en témoigne. Nous avons fait preuve de dévouement et d’assiduité dans des domaines tels que l’éducation dans des pays touchés par un conflit armé, les migrations massives ou les inégalités de genre en milieu scolaire. Nous devons pourtant aller plus loin. L’idée d’une « éducation inclusive et de qualité » ne peut être réduite à un slogan. Il nous faut agir efficacement pour déterminer nos objectifs et nos méthodes, en proposant aux pays des projets concrets pour mettre en œuvre des politiques éducatives innovantes et efficaces. Pour y parvenir, nous pouvons compter sur des théoriciens et des experts, ainsi que sur la possibilité de joindre à nos idées l’analyse de la structure éducative et les

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méthodes d’enseignement de pays membres qui sont de véritables exemples de réussite dans le domaine de l’éducation.

(5.2) Nos préoccupations actuelles en matière de science et de société sont liées aux atteintes portées à la nature par l’homme, aux changements climatiques et aux menaces que fait peser la dégradation environnementale sur la vie et la qualité de vie. Cependant, nous devons prendre garde à ne pas adopter une vision seulement politique ou sociologique de l’écologie. L’UNESCO a clairement pour mandat de concilier l’éducation, la science et la culture. De toute évidence, elle doit se charger de promouvoir la conscience écologique et l’éducation environnementale, mais la détection et la prévention des problèmes environnementaux exigent de sa part un travail plus interdisciplinaire dans les domaines de la biologie générale, des sciences de l’environnement et de la Terre et de l’océanologie. Nous devons approfondir les actions que nous avons menées, par exemple sur la biosphère et l’océanographie.

(5.3) En ce qui concerne les finances de l’Organisation, nul ne peut nier les difficultés résultant du manque de moyens financiers, mais nous devons nous interroger sur l’utilisation de chaque euro, sur notre productivité et sur la possibilité d’accomplir davantage avec les mêmes ressources.

(5.4) Il s’agit donc de chercher des solutions concrètes et pratiques aux interrogations liées à l’éducation, à l’environnement et au budget de l’Organisation. Tout cela doit être mené avec empressement. Il y a un proverbe chinois qui dit : « Dépêche-toi, il est plus tard que tu le ne crois ». Il ne faut ni nous imaginer que nous avons le temps, ni nous enliser dans des discussions stériles, ni nous comporter de façon prosaïque. Nos efforts contribueront à résoudre les difficultés rencontrées par l’UNESCO, y compris les problèmes économiques, car il arrive un point où l’augmentation des ressources est proportionnelle à celle du respect que mérite une Organisation de cette envergure et de cette utilité. Montrons-nous capables de choisir aujourd’hui et assumons nos responsabilités sans relâche. Je vous remercie.

6.1 Malaysia (Vice-Chairperson for Group IV) in extenso:

Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Mr President of the General Conference, Madam Director General, distinguished Members of the Executive Board, ladies and gentlemen, allow me to begin with a few words in my capacity as Vice-Chairperson for Group IV. It is an honour to deliver the Asia and the Pacific Group’s joint statement to this distinguished audience. The 202nd session of UNESCO's Executive Board marks the last time some of us will sit around this table as Members and we wish to thank you all for your contributions.

6.2 First and foremost, the ASPAC Group wishes to convey its deep condolences and sympathies to all nations that have lost and suffered over the last few weeks and months. The natural disasters around the world have caused extensive structural damage and loss of life. Several countries in Asia have recently gone through horrific floods that have caused thousands of deaths and many more displaced persons. In developing areas where education is crucial, thousands of schools have been flooded resulting in millions more children who sadly find

themselves out of the classroom. Our climate is an issue that is getting more serious by the day and as we all know, education is a major element in combatting the ill effect of climate change. Initiatives such as Major Programme I in draft document 39 C/5 that seek to “ensure access to quality education for persons in vulnerable situations […] and to crisis-affected populations” remain paramount. The ASPAC Group therefore reiterates its commitment to the 2030 Agenda and to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a whole. The ASPAC Group believes that through the promotion of education and training of life skills in these areas, UNESCO may help to pave the way for self-sustaining communities in the years to come. We have taken note of the report released by the UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) with regards to small island developing States (SIDS) which shows how effective the programmes can be in such situations. Also, the ASPAC Group considers the role of sport and education as a tool to achieve some of the SDGs and to strengthen peace and stability in the world. We welcome and encourage any initiative by Member States to promote sports and physical education as a means to combat discrimination and to promote human rights.

6.3 We have previously welcomed the move towards a structured financing dialogue and an integrated budget framework. Nevertheless, our Organization needs to seek ways and means to encourage Member States to pay their membership dues on time as well as to find a better way of getting Member States to participate in contributing to the extrabudgetary programme. We have already started this process through the working group on governance, which we fully support. We would like to commend the working group for having proposed a draft for the General Conference’s deliberations. We hope the debates at the General Conference will result in meaningful discussions and that the results will help to make UNESCO more inclusive, transparent, efficient and effective.

6.4 Soon, UNESCO will have a new Director-General. As usual the ASPAC Group will continue to make its presence felt at the next Executive Board. Our Group expresses its strong commitment to cooperating with all Member States and regional groups to achieve the overarching goals of this great institution.

6.5 I now wish to move to my national statement. I would like to convey the warm greetings and best wishes from H.E. Dato’ Seri Mahdzir Khalid whom I have the honour to represent at this session. This particular session of our Board comes at a critical juncture in the life of this Organization, centring on the future leadership of UNESCO for which this Board is to deliberate under item 26, as well as item 21, which falls on us, following the Special Committee’s (SP) decision to recommend to the General Conference the expected changes on governance, procedures and working methods of the governing bodies of UNESCO.

6.6 Time and space will not permit a detailed study and reaction here to each issue under agenda items 4 and 5 presented by the Director-General. I propose to highlight some of those agenda items that concern the programme sectors, leaving details for discussion in the commissions. However, before these can be highlighted, let me mention the Director-General's letter of 21 June 2017 to the Chairperson, which has been duly circulated to our capitals as well, concerning the cash-flow situation and its impact on the implementation of document 39 C/5, for which remedial measures need to be taken for the first six months of 2018. It is clear that despite efforts made to

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secure all dues from Member States, the financial position is critical. There is little doubt that should this situation persist, our approved activities and programmes need to be curtailed to such an extent that their relevancy are indeed to be questioned. On the other hand, we may be able to exercise greater prudence in managing tight cash-flow situations by developing a set of priorities in executing the approved programmes. A much more energetic approach in seeking extrabudgetary funds could be launched for Member States' support.

6.7 We fully appreciate that the Education Sector has been able to prepare a comprehensive report on the plight of the children of refugees and internally displaced persons. Both Iraq and the Syrian Arab Republic have witnessed an outflow of their populations to neighbouring countries, principally Lebanon, Turkey and Jordan. For the immediate, it is hoped that UNESCO, through its regional offices in Lebanon and Jordan, could develop, with financing from the United Nations Commission on Human Rights (UNCHR) and private donors, appropriate instructional programmes relevant to the countries of origin of such children.

6.8 Humankind unfortunately continues to live in a troubled world. UNESCO's work in the promotion of cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue needs to be further strengthened and the strategy as outlined in the report has been put forward in a forthright manner. We hold the belief that culture is universal though what makes culture parochial sometimes is the difference it portrays in different settings. Therefore, any strategy that is elaborated on cultural pluralism must start from the premise of minimizing differences so as to result in a wider appreciation of each other's perception of culture.

6.9 I wish to commend the proposed strategy that aims to protect and strengthen biosphere reserves. It is my view that biosphere reserves need to be considered as being potential natural world heritage sites and the correlation between the two deserves clearer articulation. Both the Science and Culture Sectors could broaden the scope of the relationship between Geoparks and natural world heritage sites. There are aspects in both programmes that could help in mitigating the ill effects of climate change. Through the International Coordinating Council of the Programme on Man and the Biosphere (ICC-MAB) of which Malaysia is a member, strong support for the implementation of the Lima Action Plan has been shown, particularly in enabling thriving societies to adapt themselves to the biosphere environment with respect to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

6.10 While fully supporting the revision of the Statutes of the Management of Social Transformations Programme (MOST) Programme, I wish to state with some pride that since November 2015, this programme is being presided by the Honourable Dato' Sri Rohani Abdul Karim, Minister of Women, Family and Community Development. In that capacity she helped to organize the first Asia-Pacific ministerial forum for the MOST Programme in Kuala Lumpur in March 2017 focusing on “Building Inclusive Societies” and thus at the core of the 2030 Agenda. This forum was preceded by three other meetings, namely the Bureau of the Intergovernmental Council of the MOST Programme (IGC–MOST), the Intergovernmental Council, and the meeting of MOST senior officials. The MOST Action Plan 2016-2021 was developed as the outcome of the meetings, which inter alia gives clear guidance for Member States to carry out social transformation in view

of achieving the relevant SDGs. With cooperation and continuous support from the Member States, Malaysia is committed and pledges to continue to serve as the President of IGC-MOST for the second term and as an active member of ICC-MAB.

6.11 I would like to conclude by reiterating our strong commitment to and esteem for UNESCO; I hope that together we can work for the success of the forthcoming programme and budget (39 C/5).

7.1 Cameroun in extenso : Monsieur le Président de la Conférence générale, Monsieur le Président du Conseil exécutif, Madame la Directrice générale, en décidant de réviser la Recommandation de 1974 concernant la condition des chercheurs scientifiques, la 37e session de la Conférence générale précisait que c’était « afin de refléter les nouveaux défis apparus au cours des quarante années qui ont suivi son adoption ». Dès son préambule, déjà en 1974, cette recommandation reconnaissait que les réalisations scientifiques peuvent présenter certains dangers qui constituent une menace, surtout dans les cas où les résultats de ces recherches sont utilisés contre les intérêts vitaux de l’humanité. La Déclaration sur la science et l'utilisation du savoir scientifique, adoptée à la Conférence mondiale sur la science tenue sous les auspices de l’UNESCO (Budapest, 26 juin – 1er juillet 1999), est venue corroborer cette vision des choses en affirmant, en son paragraphe 20, que « certaines applications de la science peuvent porter préjudice aux personnes ainsi qu’à la société, à l’environnement et à la santé humaine, voire menacer la survie de l’espèce ».

7.2 Or, précisément aujourd’hui, le fait est que de nombreuses recherches financées par le secteur privé présentent un grand spectre de dangers pour l’humanité, dans les domaines des biotechnologies, de l’intelligence artificielle et des nanotechnologies. La proclamation de ces dangers sort de la bouche même des commanditaires des recherches, les géants du Web. Si Bill Gates, le fondateur de Microsoft, a prévenu un jour que « l’intelligence artificielle sera suffisamment puissante pour devenir dangereuse », des responsables de Google sont allés plus loin : en 2004, c’est le cofondateur de Google, Larry Page, qui a déclaré : « Google sera inclus dans le cerveau des gens. Et quand vous penserez à quelque chose, il vous donnera automatiquement la réponse ». Et en 2010, le PDG de Google lui-même, Eric Schmidt, aurait dit : « Nous savons où vous êtes, nous savons où vous étiez, nous savons plus ou moins ce que vous pensez ». Mais voici le bouquet, qui nous est offert par cet autre cofondateur de Google en la personne de Sergeï Brin, en 2010 toujours : « Nous voulons que Google soit la troisième moitié de votre cerveau ». Nous tirons ces citations d’un livre très documenté de la journaliste et écrivaine française Christine Kerdellant, dont le titre est « Dans la Google du loup », paru en janvier de cette année.

7.3 Face à cette réalité, la priorité devrait être donnée aujourd’hui à la sauvegarde des intérêts vitaux de l’humanité et surtout à la protection de la vie privée des gens, résolument traités comme n’étant pas autre chose que des consommateurs à manipuler. Les réalités qui ont conduit en 1974 à réserver la priorité aux chercheurs ne sont plus les mêmes. Bien des chercheurs aujourd’hui sont au service d’industriels préoccupés exclusivement du gain, défenseurs du seul pouvoir de l’argent comme moyen de domination et comme valeur suprême.

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7.4 Alors, que fait l’UNESCO ? Le Comité intergouvernemental de bioéthique et la Commission mondiale d'éthique des connaissances scientifiques et des technologies (COMEST) tiennent depuis quelques temps des réunions conjointes. Lors de la session de septembre 2016, la COMEST avait inscrit à son ordre du jour un point intitulé « L’éthique de l’eau et la robotique éthique », ainsi que la révision de la Recommandation concernant la condition des chercheurs scientifiques (1974). Cette année, au cours de la session de septembre, la COMEST avait inscrit comme premier point de son ordre du jour la finalisation du rapport sur la robotique. Notre souci est de savoir ce que disent ces rapports. Selon l’article 9 des statuts de la COMEST, le Directeur général reçoit un rapport sur les travaux de la Commission ainsi que ses recommandations et porte par la suite les résultats de ces travaux à la connaissance des organes délibérants de l’Organisation et aux instances concernées par les propositions émises. Il s’agit pour nous de demander au Président du Conseil exécutif d’envisager de consacrer à l’avenir une séance du Conseil, à défaut d’une journée entière, à la présentation des rapports de la COMEST. Nous pensons en particulier au rapport intitulé « Science, technologie et société du point de vue de l’éthique : une contribution au programme de l’après-2015 ». Nous pensons aussi aux rapports du Comité intergouvernemental de bioéthique.

7.5 Pour terminer, nous nous réjouissons de constater que la 10e réunion intersessions du Conseil exécutif a proposé la fusion du Comité intergouvernemental de bioéthique et de la Commission mondiale d'éthique des connaissances scientifiques et des technologies. C’est l’inefficacité croissante des observateurs mondiaux de l’éthique qui aurait conduit la réunion intersessions à faire cette proposition, que nous soutenons.

8.1 El Salvador in extenso: Señor Presidente del Consejo Ejecutivo, señor Presidente de la Conferencia General, señora Directora General, distinguidos delegados, señoras y señores: en nombre del pueblo y del Gobierno de El Salvador, deseo expresar nuestra solidaridad y nuestras condolencias al pueblo y al Gobierno de México por las víctimas del devastador terremoto ocurrido el 19 de septiembre, sentimiento que extendemos también a los países de Centroamérica, el Caribe y Estados Unidos afectados por el paso de huracanes y otros fenómenos meteorológicos.

8.2 No cabe duda de que estamos en un momento crucial en el que debemos asumir los grandes desafíos que la UNESCO y su nueva Dirección General afrontarán en el marco de su acción, entre los cuales sobresale la cuestión de cómo apoyar y acompañar a los Estados Miembros en el proceso de implementación de la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo Sostenible, de la mano de una estrategia de financiamiento que incluya a los países de renta media. Es relevante ocuparse de mantener vigentes los propósitos y funciones de la Organización para contribuir a la paz y a la seguridad mediante la educación, la ciencia y la cultura en el escenario mundial.

8.3 Señor Presidente: la alfabetización es una de las herramientas que siempre nos han permitido impulsar el desarrollo. Gracias a ella, podemos propiciar una mayor participación de las personas en diversos espacios, entre ellos el mercado laboral. Además, incide en la salud, contribuye a mejorar la alimentación de los niños y niñas y las familias, reduce la pobreza y amplía las oportunidades de desarrollo de nuestros pueblos. Por ello es necesario

renovar los esfuerzos de la Organización en favor de la erradicación del analfabetismo, con lo cual no solo avanzaremos hacia el cumplimiento del ODS 4, que tiene por título “Educación de calidad”, sino que contribuiremos a la consecución del conjunto de objetivos y metas de la Agenda 2030.

8.4 Para El Salvador, la importancia de la alfabetización es irrefutable. Hasta la fecha, el índice de analfabetismo se ha reducido en más de un 7%, y aspiramos a cerrar este año con una disminución del 8,46% en la población mayor de 15 años, en consonancia con los objetivos y acciones que hemos establecido en nuestro Plan Quinquenal de Desarrollo, en el que prima la educación como una de las principales aristas para consolidar un futuro mejor para la población.

8.5 Los retos que se presentan en la actualidad nos obligan a dar pasos más grandes y a perseguir aspiraciones más ambiciosas. Por ello, nos vemos obligados no solo a avanzar en el tema anterior, que es fundamental, sino que también debemos ir más allá a través de la unión de nuestros esfuerzos en la Organización y la construcción de nuevas sinergias.

8.6 Hacemos un llamado a colaborar desde la UNESCO para permitir que los países en desarrollo podamos lograr avances más significativos en materia de innovación, ciencia y tecnología en aquellos ámbitos marcados hoy por el progreso tecnológico, especialmente en el terreno de las comunicaciones, cuyos adelantos deben ponerse al servicio del desarrollo sostenible y del bienestar de la población. De esta manera, todos podemos contribuir a la consecución de los ODS desde una perspectiva más amplia y por medio de la educación, las ciencias naturales y las ciencias sociales y humanas, así como a través de la cultura, la comunicación y la información, en concordancia con las áreas definidas por la UNESCO en sus esfuerzos por alcanzar las metas establecidas en la Agenda 2030. Todo ello es especialmente importante a las puertas de la conmemoración, el 17 de octubre, del Día Internacional para la Erradicación de la Pobreza, que nos debe servir como un recordatorio de los desafíos que quedan por superar para poner el conocimiento al servicio de la población, especialmente de los más vulnerables.

8.7 Finalmente, aprovecho esta oportunidad para agradecer el respaldo unánime que ha recibido el proyecto de decisión que hemos presentado, junto con países de otras regiones, en relación con el punto 44 del orden del día de esta reunión del Consejo Ejecutivo. Les manifiesto que El Salvador apoya la declaración del Grupo de América Latina y el Caribe (GRULAC) y hace votos por que las decisiones que se adopten en esta reunión del Consejo Ejecutivo contribuyan a impulsar una nueva era para la Organización. Muchas gracias.

(8.1) El Salvador in extenso (traduit de l’espagnol) : Monsieur le Président du Conseil exécutif, Monsieur le Président de la Conférence générale, Madame la Directrice générale, Mesdames et Messieurs les délégués, Mesdames et Messieurs, au nom du peuple et du Gouvernement salvadoriens, je voudrais exprimer notre solidarité et adresser nos condoléances au peuple et au Gouvernement mexicains pour les victimes du séisme dévastateur du 19 septembre. Ces pensées s’adressent également aux pays d’Amérique centrale et des Caraïbes ainsi

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qu’aux États-Unis, touchés par le passage d’ouragans et d’autres phénomènes météorologiques.

(8.2) Nous sommes clairement à un tournant décisif où nous devons relever les défis majeurs que l’UNESCO et sa nouvelle direction générale affronteront dans le cadre de leur action. Parmi ces enjeux, ressort la question de savoir comment appuyer et accompagner les États membres dans le processus de mise en œuvre du Programme de développement durable à l’horizon 2030, tout en devisant une stratégie de financement qui englobe les pays à revenu intermédiaire. Il est indispensable de s’employer à maintenir les buts et les fonctions de l’Organisation pour contribuer à la paix et à la sécurité au moyen de l’éducation, de la science et de la culture au niveau mondial.

(8.3) Monsieur le Président, l’alphabétisation fait partie des outils qui nous ont toujours permis d’impulser le développement. Grâce à elle, nous pouvons favoriser une participation accrue des personnes à différents espaces, dont le marché du travail. L’alphabétisation a en outre des effets positifs sur les indicateurs de santé, sur l’alimentation des enfants et des familles, sur la réduction de la pauvreté et sur les possibilités de développement de nos pays. C’est pourquoi il est nécessaire que l’Organisation renouvelle ses efforts en vue de l’élimination de l’analphabétisme, qui nous permettra de progresser dans la réalisation non seulement de l’ODD 4 « Éducation de qualité », mais aussi de l’ensemble des objectifs et des cibles du Programme 2030.

(8.4) Pour El Salvador, l’importance de l’alphabétisation est irréfutable. À ce jour, le taux d’analphabétisme a baissé de plus de 7 % et nous espérons terminer l’année sur un recul de 8,46 % dans la population âgée de 15 ans et plus, conformément aux objectifs et aux actions fixés dans notre plan quinquennal de développement, qui fait de l’éducation une des pierres angulaires pour assurer un avenir meilleur à la population.

(8.5) Les problématiques actuelles nous obligent à intensifier nos efforts et à nourrir de plus grandes ambitions. Ainsi, nous devons non seulement faire avancer le thème précédent, qui est fondamental, mais aussi aller plus loin en unissant nos efforts au sein de l’Organisation et en construisant de nouvelles synergies.

(8.6) Nous appelons à collaborer depuis l’UNESCO, pour nous permettre à nous, pays en développement, de réaliser des progrès plus importants en matière d’innovation, de science et de technologie. Ces domaines sont aujourd’hui marqués par les avancées technologiques, en particulier dans le secteur des communications, et leurs évolutions doivent être mises au service du développement durable et du bien-être de la population. Ainsi, nous pouvons tous plus largement contribuer à la réalisation des ODD par le biais de l’éducation, des sciences naturelles et des sciences sociales et humaines ainsi qu’à travers la culture, la communication et l’information, conformément aux domaines d’action définis par l’UNESCO pour atteindre les cibles du Programme 2030. Ces questions s’avèrent particulièrement pertinentes à quelques jours de la célébration, le 17 octobre, de la Journée internationale pour l’élimination de la

pauvreté, qui nous remémore les défis restant à relever pour mettre les connaissances au service de la population, et en particulier des plus vulnérables.

(8.7) Enfin, je profite de cette occasion pour vous remercier pour le soutien unanime qu’a reçu le projet de décision que nous avons présenté, aux côtés de pays d’autres régions, au titre du point 44 de l’ordre du jour de cette session du Conseil exécutif. El Salvador souscrit à la déclaration du Groupe de l’Amérique latine et des Caraïbes (GRULAC) et souhaite que les décisions qui seront adoptées à la présente session du Conseil exécutif contribuent à inaugurer une nouvelle ère pour l’Organisation. Je vous remercie.

9.1 Republic of Korea in extenso: Mr Chairperson, Mr President of the General Conference, Madam Director-General, distinguished delegates, the 202nd session of the Executive Board is very important for the future of this organization. During the session, we have to finalize document 39/C5 and we will elect a new leader of UNESCO. I hope that we elect a new Director-General whose visions correspond to the very special mandates and raison d’être of UNESCO. Also, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Ms Bokova, who has ably led this Organization during the past eight years. During her tenure, UNESCO has achieved considerable progress in various areas. I hope that her endeavours towards reform will continue under her successor.

9.2 Distinguished delegates, I would like to bring your attention to the acute financial crisis and to the letters of the Director-General circulated in June and August. With the implementation of the contingency plan, the efforts of the Secretariat cannot be dissociated from the corresponding efforts of the Member States. The least of our obligations is to pay our assessed contributions in full and on time and without conditions. In times of difficulty, we need to show our solidarity by taking our own responsibility.

9.3 Mr Chairperson, the Republic of Korea has been committed to the Memory of the World Programme since its inception. Through our contribution to capacity building and awareness-raising, we became aware of the necessity for an institution capable of providing practical support to the Memory of the World Programme for preservation of and access to documentary heritage. In this framework, my Government has proposed to establish the first category 2 centre with a view to enhancing the capacity of developing countries. We look forward to the valuable support from the Members of the Board on this proposal. As for the review process of the Memory of the World Programme, I will make a separate statement at a later stage. Nevertheless, I would like to point out that there have been no precedents by which revised rules and guidelines have been applied retroactively to pending nomination files. Introducing retroactive rules, even in an indirect manner, would disrupt the stability of the Memory of the World Programme and undermine its credibility. The Member States’ political responsibility for the Memory of the World Programme should in my view be dealt with as a matter of governance reform in the mid- and long-term perspective.

9.4 The Republic of Korea believes that category 2 centres are useful tools for contributing to the causes of UNESCO. However, the last Internal Oversight Service (IOS) report revealed that two thirds of category 2 centres

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are not operational. This finding is a bitter pill to swallow, yet it will serve to improve the comprehensive strategy for category 2 institutes and centres. We consider that the improvement should move towards reinforcing the viability of the current instrument, while alleviating the burden of the Secretariat.

9.5 Recently, we have witnessed the devastating consequences of natural disasters caused by climate change. It is vital that the responses to climate change be based on international cooperation and effective water management. The role of the International Hydrological Programme (IHP) is more relevant than ever for addressing the manifold challenges at the global level. In this context, the Republic of Korea has started collaborating with UNESCO on a sustainable water management project with a view to establishing water safety measures for African countries. I hope that the initiative contributes to international efforts to cope with such issues.

9.6 In the area of culture, the Republic of Korea, as a World Heritage Committee member, has been actively engaged in “world heritage interpretation”, which is just as important as the inscription and conservation of heritage sites. In our further commitment to develop world heritage programmes, I am pleased to inform you that an event will be held to present thematic studies on world heritage interpretation, with regard to sites of memory, in Seoul in November 2017 and I would appreciate your participation in and support for this important initiative.

9.7 Finally, I would like to remind you that the 12th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage will take place from 4 to 9 December 2017 on Jeju Island, which is well known as a UNESCO designated natural world heritage site. All State and non-State Parties to the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage are cordially invited to this session.

10.1 México in extenso: Señor Presidente: quiero en primer lugar agradecer las expresiones de solidaridad que han sido dirigidas a México con motivo de los desastres naturales que hemos padecido en las últimas semanas, agradecimiento que manifiesto de manera muy especial al señor Ministro de Cultura de la República de El Salvador.

10.2 México acude a esta reunión del Consejo Ejecutivo en un momento decisivo para la UNESCO y sus Estados Miembros, quienes deberán adoptar decisiones claras sobre el futuro de la Organización, en particular sobre el presupuesto, pero también sobre las prioridades que marcarán la acción de la UNESCO en los próximos cuatro años y, obviamente, el rumbo que habrá de seguir el nuevo Director o Directora General, cuyo liderazgo será más importante que nunca. Quiero aprovechar esta oportunidad para reconocer en usted, señor Presidente, a un amigo y aliado. A todos nos consta que ha dado usted lo mejor de sí mismo, siempre en consonancia con los altos ideales de la UNESCO.

10.3 La erradicación de la pobreza, como sabemos, solo es viable a través de un esfuerzo mundial concertado, y por ello la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo Sostenible permea toda la política pública de México, que reitera su especial compromiso con la consecución del cuarto Objetivo de Desarrollo Sostenible. Fortaleciendo su reforma educativa, el país ha mejorado el desempeño de los docentes, beneficiado a las escuelas y triplicado el número de instituciones educativas a tiempo completo, en

beneficio de más de 3,5 millones de alumnos.

10.4 Ante la situación que atraviesan miles de migrantes en los Estados Unidos de América, hemos asumido la responsabilidad de acoger e integrar plenamente en la sociedad a cuantos connacionales retornen a México. Un paso en esa dirección fue la modificación de la Ley General de Educación para facilitar el reconocimiento automático de los estudios realizados en otro país.

10.5 Atendiendo a las obligaciones que tiene contraídas para la protección del patrimonio mundial, y siendo el país de América Latina con el mayor número de sitios inscritos en la Lista del Patrimonio Mundial, México se ha dotado de un plan de acción para responder a diversas situaciones de crisis, y de manera especial a los desastres naturales. Los dos terremotos, a los que ya he aludido, subrayan una vez más la importancia de contar con planes de preparación y respuesta ante estos embates. La UNESCO ha estado, como siempre, cerca de las autoridades para hacer el recuento de daños e iniciar la reconstrucción. Los huracanes que azotaron a los países de nuestra región demuestran que los problemas ambientales, como la degradación del medio ambiente, son probablemente el reto planetario más importante de nuestra generación. Están en juego ni más ni menos que la seguridad humana y la sostenibilidad del planeta. En este sentido, expresamos nuestro apoyo a las actividades que realiza la UNESCO en el ámbito de las ciencias, especialmente las relacionadas con los recursos hídricos. Esta expresión de apoyo se ve reflejada en la propuesta que sometemos a la consideración del Consejo Ejecutivo en esta reunión relativa a la creación en México de un centro de categoría 2, auspiciado pues por la UNESCO, sobre seguridad hídrica, contenida en un proyecto de decisión que presentamos junto con los Estados Miembros de la Mesa del Programa Hidrológico internacional (PHI).

10.6 México reconoce el gran trabajo que ha desempeñado el Sector de Comunicación e Información, al tiempo que agradece la importante labor del Comité Consultivo Internacional del Programa Memoria del Mundo en el proceso de revisión de este programa, al que nuestro país concede especial importancia. México considera que se podría estudiar la posibilidad de iniciar la negociación de una convención para la preservación del patrimonio documental que establezca criterios objetivos y evite la dispersión a la que aludía esta mañana el representante de los Países Bajos.

10.7 Esta reunión del Consejo Ejecutivo es la última ocasión en que la Directora General toma parte en nuestros trabajos. Desde el inicio de su primer mandato, el mundo y la UNESCO han hecho frente a desafíos mayúsculos. Mi gobierno tiene la convicción de que, bajo su atinada dirección, la Organización ha sabido transformarse y alcanzado una renovada pertinencia, al aprovechar mejor sus capacidades y centrarse en los ámbitos prioritarios en los que ejerce un liderazgo mundial. De especial importancia ha sido el haber conseguido que el Consejo de Seguridad y la Corte Penal Internacional hayan actuado para defender el patrimonio cultural, cuya destrucción constituye un quebrantamiento de la paz y un crimen de guerra.

10.8 Pero, ¿qué queremos de nuestra Organización para los próximos años? México considera que la UNESCO del futuro deberá ser capaz de seguir haciendo lo que sabe hacer sin perder la vocación que le dio origen

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y habrá de contribuir, por encima de todas las cosas, a erradicar todas las formas de discriminación e intolerancia, el extremismo violento, la radicalización y los nacionalismos exacerbados y excluyentes, que son las peores amenazas para la paz y la seguridad internacionales. Sin la UNESCO no podríamos hablar hoy de los bienes comunes de la humanidad. Nuestra Organización está llamada a desempeñar un papel esencial en los grandes debates que hoy se plantean en el mundo, con la experiencia de quien sabe crear puentes entre los Estados en lugar de promover muros y barreras de odio. Muchas gracias.

(10.1) Mexique in extenso (traduit de l’espagnol) : Monsieur le Président, je souhaite avant toute chose exprimer ma reconnaissance pour les manifestations de solidarité reçues après les catastrophes naturelles qui ont frappé le Mexique ces dernières semaines, et j’adresse un remerciement tout particulier au Ministre de la culture de la République d’El Salvador.

(10.2) Le Mexique s’adresse à cette session du Conseil exécutif à un moment décisif pour l’UNESCO et ses États membres, qui vont devoir adopter des décisions claires portant sur l’avenir de l’Organisation, et notamment sur son budget, mais aussi sur les priorités qui orienteront l’action de l’UNESCO pour les quatre années à venir ainsi que, bien sûr, la voie à suivre par le nouveau directeur général ou la nouvelle directrice générale, dont le leadership sera plus important que jamais. Monsieur le Président, je veux profiter de cette occasion pour rendre hommage à l’ami et l’allié que vous avez su être. De l’avis de tous, vous avez donné le meilleur de vous-même, en restant toujours au service des nobles idéaux de l’UNESCO.

(10.3) Comme nous le savons, l’élimination de la pauvreté n’est possible qu’au prix d’un effort mondial et concerté, et c’est pourquoi le Programme de développement durable à l’horizon 2030 est omniprésent dans l’ensemble des politiques publiques du Mexique, qui réaffirme ici son engagement particulier en vue de la réalisation de l’Objectif de développement durable 4. En s’engageant pleinement dans la mise en œuvre de sa réforme de l’éducation, le pays a renforcé les performances des enseignants et des établissements scolaires et a multiplié par trois le nombre d’établissements d’enseignement à temps complet, au profit de plus de 3,5 millions d’élèves.

(10.4) Face à la situation qu’affrontent des milliers de migrants aux États-Unis, nous avons pris la responsabilité d’accueillir tous nos compatriotes qui reviennent au Mexique et de les intégrer pleinement à la société. La modification de la loi générale d’éducation en vue de faciliter la reconnaissance automatique des études effectuées dans un autre pays va dans ce sens.

(10.5) Conformément à ses obligations en matière de protection du patrimoine mondial, le Mexique, qui est le pays d’Amérique latine qui compte le plus grand nombre de sites inscrits sur la Liste du patrimoine mondial, s’est doté d’un plan d’action pour faire face aux différentes situations de crise et, en particulier, aux catastrophes naturelles. Les deux tremblements de terre que j’ai évoqués précédemment soulignent une fois de plus combien il est important de concevoir des plans de préparation et de réponse à ces

phénomènes. Comme toujours, l’UNESCO s’est tenue aux côtés des pouvoirs publics pour recenser les dommages subis et entamer la reconstruction. Les ouragans qui ont dévasté les pays de notre région montrent que les problèmes environnementaux, comme la dégradation de l’environnement, sont sans doute le défi planétaire le plus important à relever par notre génération. Rien de moins que la sécurité des hommes et la durabilité de la planète sont en jeu. En ce sens, nous exprimons notre soutien aux activités menées par l’UNESCO dans le domaine des sciences, et notamment des sciences portant sur la gestion des ressources en eau. Ce soutien transparaît dans la proposition que nous soumettons à présent pour examen au Conseil exécutif, en vue de la création, au Mexique, d’un centre de catégorie 2 pour la sécurité de l’eau, placé sous l’égide de l’UNESCO, et qui figure dans le projet de décision que nous présentons conjointement avec les États membres du Bureau du Programme hydrologique international (PHI).

(10.6) Le Mexique reconnaît le travail important qui a été fourni par le Secteur de la communication et de l’information et remercie le Comité consultatif international du Programme Mémoire du monde pour l’action remarquable qu’il a accomplie dans le cadre du processus de révision du Programme, auquel notre pays accorde une importance particulière. Le Mexique estime que l’on pourrait envisager d’entamer la négociation d’une convention pour la préservation du patrimoine documentaire, qui définirait des critères objectifs et permettrait d’éviter la dispersion évoquée ce matin par le représentant des Pays-Bas.

(10.7) Avec cette session du Conseil exécutif, la Directrice générale participe pour la dernière fois à nos travaux. Depuis qu’elle a entamé son premier mandat, le monde et l’UNESCO ont dû faire face à des défis considérables. Mon gouvernement a la conviction que, sous sa conduite éclairée, l’Organisation a su se transformer et acquérir une pertinence renouvelée, en tirant le meilleur parti de ses capacités et en se concentrant sur ses domaines prioritaires, pour lesquels elle exerce un rôle de chef de file au niveau mondial. Un de ses accomplissements majeurs fut d’obtenir que le Conseil de sécurité et la Cour pénale internationale agissent en faveur de la défense du patrimoine culturel, dont la destruction constitue une atteinte à la paix et un crime de guerre.

(10.8) Mais qu’attendons-nous de notre Organisation pour les années à venir ? Le Mexique estime que l’UNESCO de demain devra être capable de continuer à faire ce qu’elle sait faire, sans oublier sa vocation d’origine, et qu’elle devra, par-dessus tout, contribuer à éliminer toutes les formes de discrimination et d’intolérance, ainsi que l’extrémisme violent, la radicalisation et les nationalismes exacerbés et exclusifs, qui sont les pires menaces qui soient pour la paix et la sécurité internationales. Sans l’UNESCO, nous ne pourrions pas parler aujourd’hui de biens communs de l’humanité. Notre Organisation est appelée à jouer un rôle essentiel dans les grands débats mondiaux actuels, forte de son expérience en tant qu’institution qualifiée pour jeter des passerelles entre les États au lieu d’ériger des murs et des barricades de haine. Je vous remercie.

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11.1 Estonia in extenso: Thank you. Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General, dear colleagues, Estonia aligns itself fully with the statement delivered by the European Union. Our discussions at this session of the Board are taking place in an atmosphere of increased tensions. We have seen violent attacks on the freedom of expression and opinion and we have mourned the loss of many journalists. We strongly support UNESCO’s work for the safety of journalists and advancing freedom of expression. This is one of the priorities for Estonia.

11.2 UNESCOs leadership in Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 ties in closely with the European Commission’s communication on school development as well as Estonia’s focus on new approaches to teaching and learning. In delivering SDG 4 UNESCO must make use of its advantages when cooperating with relevant international organizations. Supporting Member States in data collection and analysis has been one of UNESCO’s flagships and Estonia is ready to contribute with our experiences. Although methodology and coordination are important in order to assess the final results, we must not forget the processes of developing education systems since only this will ensure achieving the education goal.

11.3 Higher education is an integral part of SDG 4. There is a need for renewed and more flexible higher education recognition principles. UNESCO’s new global convention on recognition of higher education qualifications has great potential and we fully support the process of developing, adopting and implementing the convention. In the draft text attention is given to the recognition of the partial studies and qualifications held by refugees and displaced persons contributing to SDG target 4.5 and helping to ensure equal access to higher education for persons in vulnerable situations.

11.4 Distinguished delegates, Estonia strongly supports the activities undertaken by UNESCO to strengthen its action to safeguard cultural heritage under attack and in emergencies. UNESCO’s efforts to facilitate a coordinated international response have been strong and visible. Under Estonia’s Presidency the European Union (EU) is discussing its strategic approach to the international cultural relations. One of the priorities is preservation and protection of cultural heritage, including in conflict zones and during peacekeeping missions. We are glad that the Director of the Division for Heritage has accepted our invitation to join the meeting in Brussels on 18 October to introduce UNESCO’s strategy for reinforcing action for the protection of culture and to discuss further co-operation with the EU. The question of financial support to the strategy’s implementation also needs to be highlighted. The Heritage Emergency Fund is an important mechanism to support UNESCO’s strategy and action plan in this field. It is well adapted to rapid emergency response and it finances activities in the domains of all six cultural conventions. Considering the strategic importance of the Fund, we hope that it will have many contributors and sufficient resources to meet its objectives. Estonia will make its second contribution by the end of this year.

11.5 Estonia is a strong advocate of opportunities that information and communication technology can provide for sustainable development. The digital change has come to stay. Estonia is ready to cooperate with other States where our experience is needed and would have an added value. UNESCO, with its vast network of field offices, also needs to further modernize its processes and to make

good use of the modern technology in order to become more transparent and accountable. The Director-General has been forced to implement a contingency plan due to significant delays in payment of assessed contributions. We are concerned by the impact of the current budget freeze that means scaling down all activities across the house with associated programmatic and reputational risks.

11.6 UNESCO’s aim is to share knowledge for greater understanding and dialogue, in order to promote peace and respect for freedom, democracy, human rights and dignity. This is also a goal of the Memory of the World Programme. We are grateful to the International Advisory Committee for its substantial work on the review of the Programme. Estonia emphasizes the importance of keeping Memory of the World as an expert-led programme that rests on professional judgement and encourages dialogue based on mutual respect and understanding. Since the term of Estonia in the Executive Board will expire in November, let me say how much we value this enriching experience. My delegation would like to express its appreciation to all Members of the Board for their cooperation that will definitely continue also outside of our beloved Room X. Thank you.

12.1 Sri Lanka in extenso: Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General, distinguished Members of the Executive Board, Excellencies, ladies and gentleman, it gives me great pleasure and honour to be addressing the 202nd session of the Executive Board of UNESCO on behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka. Today, when the world is faced with many challenges such as violent extremism, climate change and poverty, the role of UNESCO as a platform for intellectual debate to foster peace and sustainable development through education, science and culture has become all the more important.

12.2 Sri Lanka believes that education serves as a main bridge for alleviating poverty, encouraging intercultural dialogue and durable peace. In this respect, Sri Lanka is happy to note the excellent contributions made by UNESCO in the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 - Education 2030. We also applaud initiatives launched by UNESCO to enhance learning opportunities for refugees and internally displaced persons and also for prevention of violent extremism through education. My country has developed a multi-part roadmap to ensure lifelong learning opportunities for all, particularly in relation to marginalized groups, and to ensure that no child is left behind. In this respect, Sri Lanka has taken steps to provide scholarships to the disabled, displaced students and those with financial difficulties. We have also introduced insurance coverage for all school-going children. At the same time, legal and administrative environments are being created to implement 13 years of compulsory education. Concurrently, vocational skills are being introduced to school curricula so students with no access to universities can gain an appropriate level of skills.

12.3 Ladies and gentlemen, building peace in the minds of men and women appears to be all the more challenging due to the spread of hatred, mistrust and violence. Therefore, the promotion of intercultural and interfaith harmony and social cohesion is of paramount importance. In this context, Sri Lanka is also on a progressive path towards achieving meaningful reconciliation, consolidating and enforcing accountability, transparency and democracy. A constitutional reform

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process is also under way to strengthen mutual understanding and social cohesion.

12.4 Sri Lanka acknowledges the leading role played by UNESCO on the safety of journalists and the issue of impunity. Our country has also taken various steps in this direction. Introduction of the Right to Information Act and provision of training for all related stakeholders marks a major milestone in this process.

12.5 Achieving gender parity is still a challenge in most countries and in most societies. Discrimination against women remains a problem that must be addressed. Gender equality is a global priority of UNESCO and Sri Lanka notes with satisfaction the work carried out by UNESCO in this respect. I am happy to state that in my country, where 52% of the population is female, women’s rights have been guaranteed through our Constitution.

12.6 We cannot find lasting solutions to any of the global issues such as poverty, food and energy crises without bold action to combat climate change and achieve greener low-carbon growth with proliferation of greener technologies. Therefore, the launch of a Sustainable Development Act, which serves as a national policy and strategy in Sri Lanka, is a major stride in the right direction. Furthermore, Sri Lanka has developed a National Research and Development Framework in view of the significant role to be played by scientific research and innovation in achieving sustainable development. In addition, Sri Lanka wishes to underline the importance of South-South, North-South and triangular cooperation in this respect. We are pursuing enhanced collaborations with many foreign science and technology institutes in order to share knowledge and experience through UNESCO Chairs.

12.7 UNESCO’s work in the protection of cultural heritage has always been significant. Sri Lanka is thankful to UNESCO for the assistance extended in capacity-building to develop a national policy for intangible cultural heritage and the training of practitioners of various elements. Sri Lanka has also taken steps to improve conservation and management of heritage sites.

12.8 In conclusion, I wish to also congratulate and thank Ms Irina Bokova, the outgoing Director-General of UNESCO, on behalf of Sri Lanka for the exemplary manner in which she has led UNESCO.

13.1 Haïti in extenso : Monsieur le Président du Conseil exécutif, Monsieur le Président de la Conférence générale, Madame la Directrice générale, Excellences, Mesdames, Messieurs, à l’occasion des travaux de la 202e session du Conseil exécutif, je voudrais au moment de prendre la parole devant cette assemblée remercier le Bureau du Conseil pour la préparation et l’organisation de la session et, au nom du Gouvernement haïtien, féliciter particulièrement la Directrice générale, Madame Irina Bokova, pour la grande compétence et l’esprit d’ouverture avec lesquels elle a dirigé l’Organisation durant ses deux mandats. La délégation haïtienne s’associe par ailleurs pleinement à la déclaration prononcée par la République dominicaine en qualité de Vice-Présidente pour le Groupe III, qui expose les enjeux stratégiques de l’Organisation et les attentes de notre région.

13.2 Mesdames, Messieurs, cette session du Conseil exécutif se tient dans un contexte particulier où les 58 États membres sont appelés à désigner un nouveau directeur général ou une nouvelle directrice générale pour

les quatre prochaines années. C’est le moment pour la République d’Haïti de renouveler son attachement à cette institution et au mandat qui lui est confié par la Convention de 1945.

13.3 Cet attachement nous oblige à ne pas taire notre inquiétude face à la situation financière préoccupante de l’Organisation, dont la vocation est de promouvoir la paix dans le monde par l’éducation, la science et la culture. La République d’Haïti, par la voix de sa délégation permanente, appuie et encourage toute initiative visant à permettre à l’UNESCO de répondre correctement à sa vocation. C’est dans cette perspective que la République d’Haïti en appelle solennellement à tous afin que l’UNESCO puisse continuer à remplir sereinement sa mission. C’est une tâche cruciale dans le monde contemporain.

13.4 Monsieur le Président, la région des Caraïbes est affectée en permanence par des ouragans de plus en plus dévastateurs, des périodes prolongées de sécheresse ou de pluie accompagnées d’inondations. Cette année encore, les ouragans survenus ont détruit totalement les infrastructures vitales de la majorité des petits États insulaires en développement de la région. Quoique faiblement touché par les derniers ouragans, notre pays souffre de grandes vulnérabilités face aux risques de catastrophes naturelles dus au changement climatique et nous sommes extrêmement préoccupés par la fréquence et l’ampleur de ces phénomènes. C’est l’occasion pour nous de renouveler notre adhésion indéfectible au Cadre d’action de Sendai. La coopération avec l’Organisation a permis d’enregistrer des progrès en ce qui concerne le renforcement du système d’alerte et de prévention. Mais il est évident que cette coopération devra être amplifiée. Il est essentiel que les populations se saisissent de cette problématique. Une politique environnementale ambitieuse ne saurait réussir sans une perspective sociale. L’amélioration des conditions de vie des populations n’est pas contradictoire avec la lutte contre le réchauffement climatique. Des pays comme le mien doivent surpasser cette apparente contradiction si nous voulons atteindre ensemble nos objectifs.

13.5 C’est en ce sens que nous encourageons pleinement les actions menées en matière de renforcement des capacités, de transfert de technologie et d’accès à l’assistance technique et aux financements pour la préservation et la protection de notre environnement. La République d’Haïti apprécie les efforts déjà consentis dans le cadre de la coopération avec l’UNESCO et appelle à poursuivre globalement les engagements pris afin de rendre effective la mise en œuvre du « Plan d’action pour le renforcement de la coopération de l’UNESCO : Ensemble pour Haïti » adopté par le Conseil exécutif à sa 201e session.

13.6 Mesdames, Messieurs, la question de l’éducation est essentielle et revêt une grande importance pour notre pays, où malgré les efforts consentis, il reste encore beaucoup à faire. L’éducation demeure la meilleure ressource pour entretenir, préserver et consolider les valeurs qui fondent notre humanité commune, notre égale dignité. Le Gouvernement haïtien a déployé beaucoup d’efforts pour renforcer l’ensemble du secteur éducatif en termes d’accès et de qualité, mais la plupart des objectifs du Plan opérationnel 2010-2015 sont loin d’être atteints. L’amélioration du niveau de l’éducation passe par un renforcement des capacités des acteurs qui opèrent au niveau institutionnel. Il est aussi indispensable de poursuivre les efforts visant à reconstruire les

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infrastructures scolaires endommagées et renforcer l’enseignement et la formation techniques et professionnels. Le soutien de l’UNESCO au système éducatif haïtien est constant. Il est vital pour l’avenir du pays qu’il soit maintenu et augmenté.

13.7 Monsieur le Président, les sites du patrimoine culturel et naturel dans les Caraïbes sont devenus de plus en plus attractifs pour le secteur du tourisme, avec un nombre croissant de visiteurs. Bien que ce tourisme soit une source de revenus, il est nécessaire de développer et de mettre en place des politiques et des mesures qui permettent d’en limiter l’impact sur les sites et les dommages potentiels.

13.8 Mesdames, Messieurs, les défis actuels demandent une réponse rapide de la part de l’UNESCO dans ses domaines de compétence, et l’efficacité de l’action dépend de l’engagement des États membres. Au moment où l’Organisation se prépare à une échéance électorale démocratique pour désigner un nouveau directeur général ou une nouvelle directrice générale et aussi constituer la nouvelle équipe de direction qui devra piloter l’UNESCO dans les prochaines années, notre délégation souhaite que les délibérations ainsi que les décisions qui seront adoptées à cette 202e session du Conseil exécutif contribuent grandement à la réalisation des mandats et des objectifs de l’Organisation, dans l’intérêt général des peuples du monde.

14.1 Viet Nam in extenso: Mr Chairperson of the UNESCO Executive Board, ladies and gentlemen, at the outset, on behalf of the Vietnamese delegation, I would like to extend my heartfelt sympathy to the people of countries suffering from flooding and monsoons in Asia, hurricanes and earthquakes in North and Central America and landslides and drought in Africa. Unpredictable natural disasters and the impact of climate change are threatening the lives and happiness of peoples from all over the world. This situation once again shows that UNESCO's programmes and activities, including those related to climate change, are becoming more practical and urgent than ever.

14.2 Our session takes place at a critical juncture. Climate change together with regional conflicts, transnational crimes, terrorism, energy security and epidemics represent the major challenges of our time. Entrusted with the mission to “contribute to peace and security by promoting collaboration among the nations through education, science and culture”, UNESCO always makes sure that peace prevails and becomes a common denominator in all of its debates and programmes. As the United Nations intellectual arm, a laboratory of ideas, UNESCO has played an essential role in making the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development a reality and contributing to the building of peace, the eradication of poverty, sustainable development and intercultural dialogue through education, science, culture, communication and information. Many of UNESCO’s programmes towards these aims have been successfully implemented in recent years by its Member States through the Organization’s governing bodies, the General Conference and the Executive Board, and in coordination with the Secretariat. Yet, despite the remarkable outcomes achieved, UNESCO is still facing multiple challenges. This requires the Organization to reform itself to improve the efficiency and capacity of its governing bodies and deal with its financial difficulties. For that reason, at its 202nd session, the Executive Board needs not only to review reports on the execution of UNESCO’s programmes and

assess the budgetary situation of the Organization but also to focus on the UNESCO reform process, solutions to overcome financial difficulties, as well as future directions of the Organization, in order to rise to unprecedented challenges in a changing environment. Viet Nam commends the efforts of the working group on governance, procedures and working methods of the governing bodies of UNESCO in putting forward comprehensive recommendations to improve the Organization's efficiency and helping it successfully fulfil its mandates.

14.3 Ladies and gentlemen, Viet Nam attaches great importance to and wishes to promote the excellent relationship with UNESCO. The recent visit to Viet Nam by UNESCO’s Director-General in August 2017, which yielded many significant results, is a vivid testimony to the ever expanding cooperation between Viet Nam and UNESCO. The regular dialogues and close cooperation between Viet Nam and UNESCO’s Secretariat, the UNESCO Office in Hanoi and regional offices in Bangkok and Jakarta, and other partners, especially United Nations agencies in Viet Nam within the framework of the One United Nations initiative, have resulted in the successful realization of many UNESCO initiatives and projects in Viet Nam, contributing to the sustainable development of our country and the wellbeing of our people. This is a vivid example of the success of the cooperation between UNESCO and its Member States, helping to enhance the Organization’s efficiency, relevance and visibility.

14.4 The world today is undergoing profound and rapid changes. The fourth industrial revolution offers enormous development opportunities for all nations. Yet humanity is also faced with unprecedented challenges to security and development. The responsibility of UNESCO in helping the global community to achieve sustainable development has become greater than ever, and so has the expectation of countries vested in UNESCO’s noble task. These are also the responsibility and expectation that every UNESCO Member State entrusts in the new Director-General. In this respect, the Vietnamese Government's introduction of Ambassador Pham Sanh Chau as the candidate for the post of Director General of UNESCO reflects Viet Nam's desire, determination and capacity to participate in and further contribute to the work of UNESCO and the international community. We seek new opportunities to work closely and build better relationships with all countries and international organizations, especially UNESCO. The Vietnamese Government is convinced that Ambassador Pham Sanh Chau, the son of a peace-loving country, with outstanding qualities in his diplomatic career in general and in UNESCO affairs in particular, will earn the support of the Member States, international organizations and individuals who are interested in the noble goals of UNESCO.

15.1 United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland in extenso:

Mr Chairperson, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, I am delighted to be here at the 202nd session of the Executive Board of UNESCO and I am very pleased to be able to deliver the opening comments from the Delegation of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. As a committed public servant and a career diplomat, I am particularly honoured to be able to support the work that UNESCO is doing. During the last 20 plus years I have had the opportunity to witness at first hand – and in a wide variety of different contexts - the work that the United

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Nations is doing, and to see for myself the impact and importance of UNESCO’s mission, whether in Europe, in the Middle East, in central Asia, in Africa or elsewhere. That experience gives me a particular interest in the work of this Organization – and in the role that we, as Member States, have in supporting it.

15.2 I am therefore pleased to be able to reaffirm the United Kingdom Government’s commitment to the issues that UNESCO deals with across the fields of science, education - including the promotion of education and learning in developing countries, the protection of international culture and heritage, and important work on freedom of expression. It was particularly satisfying for me that my first official responsibility, which came on the day I presented my credentials to the Director-General last month, was to deposit the documents noting the United Kingdom’s ratification of the 1954 Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict and our accession to both its protocols. This underlines the United Kingdom’s clear commitment to protecting cultural heritage across the globe.

15.3 A word about reform. As the Secretary of State for International Development stated during the United Kingdom-hosted panel on United Nations Reform at the United Nations General Assembly last month, we are encouraged to see that the United Nations Secretary-General’s first report on system reform creates a strong foundation for building a United Nations for the twenty-first century, one that the United Kingdom believes must be transparent, efficient and able to justify what it does and what outcomes it achieves. This concept applies just as much to UNESCO as it does to the wider United Nations. The United Kingdom’s commitment to reform is sincere and so too is our desire to help UNESCO improve its ways of working. But also, importantly, we recognize that change – positive change – within UNESCO is under way. We welcome, for example, the additional progress that has been made on UNESCO’s Transparency Portal, and we applaud the establishment of a risk register to help guide management decisions. The progress that has been made and the further steps that are in hand to improve UNESCO’s efficiency, effectiveness and integrity as an organization are welcome, important and enjoy our full support. If we are to maintain this momentum and build on what has been achieved so far, it is important that we continue to strive for excellence, for increased impact and greater focus, so that we can all ensure together that UNESCO is able to achieve all that we want of it. Greater organizational transparency, accountability and efficiency will all have an important part to play. In addition, we consider it essential to maintain a realistic budget, which is administered transparently by staff who are fully accountable to the Member States, with programmes that best serve the needs of those that need the assistance in a focused, targeted way. In this regard, I am also pleased to welcome the new draft programme and budget, which is more focused, better targeted and streamlined, with fewer main lines of action. This is all to the good as we work to maintain UNESCO’s position as an important global advocate for peace and understanding.

15.4 Looking ahead, we once again find ourselves facing the heavy responsibility of who to elect to lead this Organization. I would like at this point to express our thanks to Ms Bokova, the Director-General, for all that she has done. The United Kingdom now looks forward to working with new management, pursuing an approach of constructive engagement, rigorous reform and a

determination to make a difference. We will strive to work together with the Director-General and Member States alike to achieve agreed objectives including a better fit-for-purpose field office network that can increase UNESCO’s impact around the world, managing a fully transparent financial process and developing a motivated workforce. Before I conclude, allow me to offer a brief thought on how UNESCO goes forward and how we might support our Director-General. UNESCO, as you all know around this table, has a broad range of responsibilities across its mandate and we must not forget that we too, as the representatives of the Member States, have our responsibilities. If we are both to be able to fulfil those, we must have the right people, the right structures, and the right systems in place. Furthermore, we must ensure that politics support the objectives of UNESCO while doing all that we can to avoid politics preventing UNESCO from doing what it is trying to achieve. I look forward with enthusiasm, commitment and determination to playing our part in writing UNESCO’s next chapter.

GENERAL CONFERENCE

Item 26: Nomination of a candidate for the post of Director-General of UNESCO (202/EX26.INF)

16. The Chairperson recalled that at the first public meeting of the 202nd session of the Executive Board, held that morning, the Board had discussed the proposal, first introduced at the second meeting of the Bureau, to change the nomination procedure by announcing the results of each round of voting in a public meeting immediately after the private meeting at which the vote was held. Following the announcement in the public meeting, the results would then be transmitted in the following manner: by email to all Board Members and Permanent Delegations, by a press release from the Secretariat and by a tweet from the Chairperson’s official twitter account. He invited the Vice-Chairpersons to inform the Board of the outcome of the consultations on the proposed changes, which had been held just prior to the present meeting. Groups I and II had already expressed their support for the new procedure.

17. El representante de la República Dominicana (Vicepresidente por el Grupo III) dice que, si bien aún no ha tenido oportunidad de consultar la cuestión con los demás miembros del Grupo III, no tiene objeción alguna al proceder propuesto.

(17) Le représentant de la République dominicaine (Vice-Président pour le Groupe III) indique que, même s’il n’a pas encore eu l’occasion de consulter les autres membres du Groupe III sur la question, il ne voit aucune objection à ce qui est proposé.

18. The representative of Malaysia (Vice-Chairperson for Group IV) said the members of Group IV would have liked to consult with their capitals on the proposed procedural changes and therefore preferred to maintain the current practice. They were, however, in favour of transparency and supported the idea of bringing the proposed changes before the Executive Board as a whole.

19. The representative of South Africa (Vice-Chairperson for Group V(a)) said that while the members of the Africa Group had not been able to hold a meeting to discuss the proposed changes, individual members had expressed support for the idea of a single source communicating the results of the voting simultaneously to

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all Member States and to all the candidates for the post of Director-General.

20. The Chairperson said that under the new procedure, he would be the one to announce the results of the voting in a public meeting, after which the information would be communicated by the Secretariat to all concerned in an appropriate manner.

21. La représentante du Maroc (Vice-Présidente pour le Groupe V(b)) dit que le Groupe des États arabes n’a aucune objection.

22. The representative of Sudan said that he fully supported the proposal.

23. The representative of Malaysia (Vice-Chairperson for Group IV) said that the ASPAC Group would not stand in the way of a consensus on the proposed procedural changes.

24. El representante de la República Dominicana (Vicepresidente por el Grupo III) señala que al parecer no todos los miembros del Grupo III suscriben la declaración que ha hecho en su nombre sin haberlos consultado previamente, dando por sentado que se trataba ante todo de privilegiar la transparencia. Por lo tanto, prefiere no pronunciarse en nombre del Grupo III en su conjunto hasta que este no haya podido reunirse para definir su posición al respecto.

(24) Le représentant de la République dominicaine (Vice-Président pour le Groupe III) dit qu’il semblerait que tous les membres du Groupe III n’approuvent pas la déclaration qu’il a faite en leur nom sans les avoir préalablement consultés, étant entendu qu’il s’agissait avant tout de privilégier la transparence. Il préfère par conséquent ne pas se prononcer au nom de l’ensemble du Groupe III tant que celui-ci ne se sera pas réuni pour définir sa position en la matière.

25. The Chairperson said that the public meeting would be suspended to give Members an opportunity to

meet in private and hold the first round of voting under item 26. He invited the Vice-Chairperson for Group III to meet with the members of the group during the break in order to confirm whether Group III was in favour of the proposal to make public the result of each ballot.

The meeting was suspended at 5.05 p.m. and resumed at 6.25 p.m.

26.1 The Chairperson said that Group III had met during the interval and agreed to the proposed procedural changes.

26.2 If he heard no objection, he would take it that the Board wished to adopt the proposal to announce the result of each round of voting for the nomination of a candidate for the post of Director-General, in a public meeting, immediately after the result had been announced in the private meeting.

27. It was so agreed.

28. The Chairperson announced the result of the first round of voting for the nomination of a candidate for the post of Director-General.

Number of Members: 58 Number of Members absent: 0 Number of blank or invalid ballot papers: 0 Number of votes recorded: 58 Majority required: 30

Number of votes obtained:

Mr Al-Kawari (Qatar) 19 Ms Azoulay (France) 13 Mr Bülbüloglu (Azerbaijan) 2 Ms El-Khoury Lacoeuilhe (Lebanon) 6 Ms Khattab (Egypt) 11 Mr Pham (Thailand) 2 Mr Tang (China) 5

The meeting rose at 6.30 p.m.

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THIRD MEETING

Tuesday 10 October 2017 at 10.20 a.m.

Chairperson: Mr Worbs later: Mr Mohd Zulkifli Bin Mohammed later: Mr Worbs


Item 4: Execution of the programme adopted by the General Conference (continued)










Plenary debate (continued)

1.1 Albania in extenso: Mr Chairperson, Mr President of the General Conference, Madam Director-General, Excellencies, Ministers, distinguished Members of the Board, dear friends and colleagues, let me start by expressing my country’s own condolences and solidarity to all those countries that have suffered from terrorist attacks and natural disasters. Their toll of death and destruction, which has risen alarmingly, is a clear and urgent call for immediate action.

1.2 Albania aligns itself with the statement of the European Union. This is an important session for our Executive Board and UNESCO’s future. We are all called upon to elect the new Director-General and we will approve the new integrated budget. The new Director-General should be a person with high integrity, great professionalism, distinctive leadership and modern managerial skills. That is easier said than done. As Members of the Executive Board, we all have a great responsibility towards the Organization. That is why we should not choose based on national interests but go beyond that and choose in the best interests of UNESCO. I avail myself of this opportunity to thank the outgoing Director-General, Ms Irina Bokova, for her untiring work and commitment.

1.3 As we approve the new integrated budget for the

next four years, we need to be more focused, to better prioritize by choosing fewer programmes closely related to UNESCO’s mandate and fields of competence and with maximum impact for fulfilment of the objectives and targets of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, in which UNESCO has the leading role and a substantial contribution to offer.

(The speaker continues in French)

1.4 Chers collègues, l’UNESCO et son mandat sont plus actuels et importants que jamais. Les quatre domaines de compétence de l’Organisation sont à la base du futur durable de la planète. Je me bornerai ici à évoquer trois moments particulièrement marquants. L’Albanie a récemment entamé une coopération très fructueuse avec le Secteur de l’éducation, qui s’effectue au travers de deux projets de grande envergure. Pour le premier, qui concerne la prévention de l’extrémisme violent par l’éducation, l’UNESCO a accompagné et assisté l’Albanie dans la phase pilote de l’introduction d’un programme scolaire sur la citoyenneté comprenant un volet de formation des enseignants. Les résultats de cette première phase sont en cours de finalisation et seront communiqués à l’UNESCO et aux États membres. Cette année, le Ministère de l’éducation prévoit de lancer une seconde phase pilote élargie et de poursuivre la formation des formateurs.

1.5 Le deuxième projet de coopération est la réalisation et la publication de « L’examen des politiques d’éducation », un travail conjoint de l’UNESCO et du Ministère de l’éducation albanais. L’examen et les recommandations qu’il contient ont non seulement apporté une aide concrète au développement durable de ce secteur clé en Albanie, mais ont également permis à mon pays de devenir un leader régional dans la réalisation de l’Objectif 4 sur l’éducation pour tous. La position avancée de l’Albanie en ce qui concerne la réalisation de l’Objectif 4 mais aussi de l’Objectif 16 (Paix, justice et institutions efficaces), dans le cadre desquels mon pays a piloté la phase de préparation de ce projet, ainsi que l’analyse approfondie des résultats de l’application des Objectifs du Millénaire pour le développement, ont amené les Nations Unies à choisir l’Albanie en tant que pays pilote pour sa région aux fins de la réalisation de tous les Objectifs de développement durable.

1.6 Je voudrais aussi mentionner la coopération de l’Albanie avec le Secteur de la culture et avec le Centre du patrimoine mondial, qui ne cesse de se développer et de renforcer ses activités. Je remercie particulièrement le Centre du patrimoine mondial pour sa contribution et pour l’aide qu’il apporte actuellement à mon pays dans le cadre du projet financé par l’Union européenne intitulé « Vers une gouvernance renforcée du patrimoine naturel et culturel transfrontalier partagé de la région du lac Ohrid », qui aboutira à la présentation d’un dossier de candidature pour l’extension du site mixte de la région d’Ohrid et à son examen par le Comité du patrimoine mondial en 2019. C’est un excellent exemple de l’assistance fournie par l’UNESCO en faveur du renforcement des capacités des pays.

(L’oratrice poursuit en anglais)

1.7 Dear colleagues, with this session Albania finishes its term of membership of the Executive Board. During its four years of membership, Albania has tirelessly made its contribution to improvement of the Organization’s policies and governance. Albania is again running for election to the Executive Board for the next term (2017-

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2021) on the basis of its commitment to the goals and objectives of UNESCO and its tradition as a country of harmony, tolerance and multifaith cooperation. I invite all Member States to support Albania and vote for it in the General Conference elections in November.

2.1 Togo in extenso : Monsieur le Président de la Conférence générale, Monsieur le Président du Conseil exécutif, Madame la Directrice générale, Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs les membres du Conseil et représentants des délégations permanentes, la délégation du Togo voudrait tout d’abord adresser ses félicitations au Président du Conseil pour la maîtrise avec laquelle il dirige ses travaux, et remercier la Directrice générale pour la qualité des documents de travail soumis à notre attention. La présence du Président de la Conférence générale rassure toujours les membres du Conseil. Il fait en quelque sorte le lien entre ce dernier et l’ensemble des États membres de l’Organisation. La délégation du Togo s'associe à la déclaration faite par l'Afrique du Sud au nom de la région Afrique (Groupe V(a)).

2.2 Mesdames et Messieurs, le rapport sur l'exécution du programme de janvier 2014 à juin 2017 (202 EX/4.INF) atteste de la maîtrise avec laquelle la mise en œuvre a été assurée par le Secrétariat malgré les difficultés que connaît l'Organisation. Dans son ensemble, l'évaluation des plans de travail indique que l’exécution est satisfaisante et que les objectifs seront probablement atteints à la fin de l’exercice biennal. Pour un petit nombre de résultats escomptés cependant, une réalisation seulement partielle des objectifs est prévue : c’est le cas par exemple de l’ER 6 de l’axe d’action 1 du programme Éducation et des ER 4 et 5 du programme Communication et information. Pourriez-vous nous indiquer quelques-unes des difficultés rencontrées dans la réalisation de ces résultats ?

2.3 Nous nous félicitons de la qualité du volume du Projet de programme et de budget, premier biennium 2018-2019 (39 C/5) produit par le Secrétariat en étroite consultation avec les États membres. Nous l’avions d’ailleurs soulignée lors de la 201e session du Conseil. Nous espérons toutefois que les commentaires formulés par le Conseil pendant la présente session permettront d’affiner les orientations définies dans ce projet, particulièrement en ce qui concerne la priorité Afrique. La mise en œuvre des programmes phares de la stratégie de la priorité globale Afrique ne pourra véritablement avancer que lorsque ces derniers seront inscrits dans les résultats escomptés des programmes des secteurs. Le Conseil préconise à juste titre de « [r]evoir les cibles concernant l’Afrique afin de les rendre plus ambitieuses, et [de] veiller à ce que tous les indicateurs de performance soient assortis d’une cible liée à cette priorité ». Nous nous réjouissons de voir que la voie se dégage pour la mise à disposition de l'Organisation d'un budget intégré de 1 296 548 700 dollars pour l'exercice 2018-2019. Nous remercions la Présidente de la Commission FA, Madame Sol de Pool, d'avoir conduit avec succès les travaux du groupe de travail informel.

2.4 La délégation du Togo souhaite que, tout en assumant pleinement son mandat dans le domaine des normes, notre Organisation accompagne chaque fois que possible ce travail de projets pilotes sur le terrain afin de maintenir et de renforcer sa visibilité. Nous saluons les initiatives prises, dans les domaines de compétence de l'Organisation, en faveur des populations réfugiées et des pays en situation de conflit ou de post-conflit, à l'instar de

l'Iraq. Nous saluons également les actions actuellement menées par l’UNESCO à l’appui de la mise en œuvre de l'ODD 4 – Éducation 2030, particulièrement en ce qui concerne les partenariats, le soutien politique et le renforcement des capacités au niveau des États membres. Notre souhait est que le soutien de l'Organisation aille en priorité aux États membres qui sont les plus éloignés dans la réalisation des objectifs de l'Éducation pour tous. Pourriez-vous nous indiquer comment les autres secteurs de programme de l'Organisation comptent participer à la mise en œuvre du Programme 2030 ? Nous nous réjouissons des progrès mentionnés dans le document 202 EX/5 concernant la mise en œuvre du Programme de participation et de l'aide d'urgence qui ont conduit à l'engagement de 98,69 % de l'enveloppe budgétaire réservée à ce programme dans le 38 C/5.

2.5 Notre délégation estime que tout doit être mis en œuvre pour que l’ensemble des activités menées au titre du programme contribuent à renforcer le mandat principal de l'UNESCO qui est de construire la paix dans l’esprit des hommes. C'est la raison pour laquelle nous sommes préoccupés lorsque parfois, l’exécution de certains programmes semble donner lieu à une sorte d'affrontement entre les États membres. Dans ces cas, il revient au directeur général de jouer son rôle de gardien des valeurs.

2.6 Pour conclure, nous souhaitons adresser un mot à la Directrice générale. Madame la Directrice générale, la tâche n'a pas été facile. Les vents contraires ont parfois contribué à la compliquer. Nous vous remercions d'avoir malgré tout réussi à mener le bateau à bon port et vous souhaitons bon vent pour les défis futurs.

:النص الكامل السودان ١-٣األصدقاء، السيد ميخائيل ووربس رئيس اجمللس التنفيذي، السيدة

لسالم ااألعزاء، لزمالءاإيرينا بوكوفا املديرة العامة، السيد رئيس املؤمتر العام، نظمتنا ة يف معليكم مجيعا. تنعقد هذه الدورة وحنن على أعتاب مرحلة جديد

الل واليتهبىن، خمدير عام جديد نتوقع منه أن يت العظيمة سيتم خالهلا اختيار ظمة منأو واليتها، سياسات ختاطب جل املوضوعات اليت مل تتمكن املن

ل يف ذا نأماالضطالع هبا كاملة وذلك لعدة أسباب أمهها ضعف التمويل. ول الية تساعدوارد مأن نوفق مجيعا يف اختيار من يؤمن القيادة احلكيمة وجيلب م

الية قا لو كو يف تنفيذ الربامج اليت اعتمدهتا الدول األعضاء وفاليونس يفليت ستتاح اوارد اليونسكو. ونتطلع إىل أن ترشد اإلدارة اجلديدة استخدام املة نشر ثقافورها يفدحتقيق األهداف النبيلة هلذه املنظمة وتقويتها واإلعالء من

السالم.

ناقش هذه الدورة العديد من السيد الرئيس، السادة الزمالء، ست ٢-٣إىل دي أن يشريفد بالو البنود منها املسائل املتعلقة باملوارد البشرية، وهنا يود

وزيع اة التبعض الشواغل اليت عرب عنها العديد من الدول وهي ضرورة مراعا تبار. وهبذ االعيفاجلغرايف العادل للوظائف، مع وضع معايري التأهيل والكفاءة

ا اقع، مملنا مفهوم العمل اجلماعي املتعدد األطراف إىل و نكون قد حو سيكسب املنظمة مزيدا من املصداقية.

كما نود مشاطرة هذا االجتماع مبوضوع مهم آخر نعتقد أن من ٣-٣الضروري إيالءه املزيد من االهتمام يف والية املدير العام اجلديد، أال وهو

ن صميم والية اليونسكو خاصة وإننا موضوع نشر ثقافة السالم الذي يعترب ميف عامل هتدده نزاعات وظواهر سلبية وخطرية نذكر منها التطرف الديين

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واإلرهاب واالجتار بالبشر واهلجرة غري الشرعية. ويف تقديرنا، إن املطلوب هو إجراء معاجلات مبتكرة داخل األمانة بالتنسيق الكامل بني قطاعات الرتبية

ة واالتصال يف كيفية تعزيز دور ثقافة السالم مبا يعاجل الظواهر والعلوم والثقاف اآلنفة الذكر.

السيد الرئيس، لعلنا اتفقنا يف كثري من املناسبات على ضرورة تركيز ٤-٣حدة م املتاليونسكو على ما مييزها يف واليتها عن وكاالت ومنظمات األم

، وهو لوفوداه كثري من األخرى. كما نود أن نضم صوتنا إىل ما ظلت تنادي برتكيز من ال أمهية عدم تغليب األبعاد السياسية على موضوعات النقاش بدال حيتاج ة واليتعلى احملتوى الذي يؤدي إىل حتقيق أهداف هذه املنظمة العظيم

إليها عاملنا اليوم أكثر من أي وقت آخر.

ليونسكو يقدر السودان ما يقوم به قطاع الرتبية با، السيد الرئيس ٥-٣ن نشري أيسرنا من جهد لتحقيق اهلدف الرابع من أهداف التنمية املستدامة، و

ذ ا اهلدف، إقيق هذإىل االهتمام الكبري الذي يوليه قطاع التعليم بالسودان لتحجمال اصة يفخيطمح السودان ملزيد من التعاون مع اليونسكو يف هذا اجملال

).TVET( املهينو ريب يف اجملال التقين تدريب املعلمني وترقية التعليم والتد

أما فيما يتعلق بقطاع العلوم، فالسودان يقر بالدور الذي تضطلع ٦-٣يات مسؤول به اليونسكو يف هذا اجملال ويقدر ما يقوم به هذا القطاع من

ر. ويف هذابعة عشمرتبطة ارتباطا وثيقا جبميع أهداف التنمية املستدامة الستها يت أعطبالدي بإعطاء األولوية القصوى للربامج ال اإلطار، يوصي وفد

املياه والبيئة أمهية قصوى، واليت تشمل ٢٠١٣الدول األعضاء يف تقييمها عام ن ملا هلا م بتكارعلى رأس القائمة، إضافة إىل برامج العلوم والتكنولوجيا واال

الرتاث كزومر دور كبري يف تقدم األمم. كما يشيد وفد بالدي بقطاع الثقافةدر تميزة ونقهتا املالعاملي لدورمها اهلام يف إعالء رسالة اليونسكو وإبراز صور

تعاو�ما مع السودان.

يود السيد الرئيس، يف ظل ضعف التمويل على مستوى األمانة، ٧-٣يونسكو اجلامعية وكراسي ال ٢وفد السودان أن يشيد مبا تضطلع به مراكز الفئة

نشطتها أى دعم و حتقيق أهداف املنظمة، ويؤكد عزمه علمن إجنازات مقدرة حننسكو ل اليو املتنوعة بالسودان ملا هلا من أثر يف رفع الوعي مبجاالت عم

ن باسم "املركز الذي أنشئ يف السودا ٢املختلفة. ويف إطار نشاط مركز الفئة سرينه" ، ياإلقليمي لتنمية القدرات وإجراء البحوث يف جمال حصاد امليا

ات على القدر إخطاركم مبا يقوم به هذا املركز من أنشطة عدة يف جمال بناءمة مؤمتر ط إلقااملستوى العريب واألفريقي، كما نود أن نذكر بأن املركز خيط

حنو برنامج يف إطار مسؤوليته العاملية ٢٠١٨عاملي حلصاد املياه يف عام القاحلة ناطقنمية يف املالشبكة العاملية للمعلومات املتعلقة باملياه والت

(IHP/G-WADI) ونتطلع إىل دعم الربنامج اهليدرولوجي الدويل(IHP) ضور ل إىل حهلذا النشاط وندعو الدول األعضاء املهتمة هبذا اجملا

هذا املؤمتر واملشاركة فيه.

السيد الرئيس، نظرا إىل أمهية املكاتب الوطنية، يود وفد السودان ٨-٣ة التقييم املوضوعي واملتأين هلا نظرا إىل ما تقوم به هذه املكاتب أن ينوه بأمهي

من أعمال مفيدة مهما كان حجمها يف الوقت احلايل. ويف هذا اإلطار، يود وفد بالدي أن يشيد باألداء املتميز ملكتب اليونسكو باخلرطوم يف السنوات

افة إىل مركز األخرية ودعمه وتنشيطه لثمانية كراسي جامعية لليونسكو، إض، وتواصله مع املكاتب اإلقليمية وأمانة اليونسكو بباريس، ٢إقليمي من الفئة

واالضطالع بالعديد من األنشطة الوطنية واإلقليمية الناجحة يف جماالت الرتبية والعلوم والثقافة واالتصال. ويف اخلتام، يود وفد بالدي أن يؤكد استمرار

جماالت عملها ويتطلع إىل مواصلة دعم التعاون مع اليونسكو يف مجيع املنظمة، مع خالص الشكر والتقدير.

(3.1) Sudan in extenso (translation from the Arabic): Dear friends, Mr Michael Worbs, Chairperson of the Executive Board, Ms Irina Bokova, Director-General, Your Excellency the President of the General Conference, dear colleagues, peace be upon you all. This session is taking place on the threshold of a new phase in the history of our great Organization, during which a new Director-General will be selected who we hope will be able, during his or her term of office, to pursue policies to address most of the issues which the Organization has not been able to deal with fully for a number of reasons, especially poor levels of funding. That is why we hope that we will all succeed in selecting someone who may provide wise leadership and attract financial resources which will help UNESCO to implement the programmes adopted by the Member States in accordance with UNESCO’s mandate. We look forward to seeing the new administration use the resources provided in order to achieve the Organization’s noble goals, to strengthen it and enhance its role in disseminating the culture of peace.

(3.2) Mr Chairperson, dear colleagues, this session will debate numerous items, such as those relating to human resources, and in this connection my delegation would like to comment on a number of issues mentioned by numerous Member States, such as the need to observe equitable geographical distribution of posts, while naturally taking into account qualifications and competence. In this way, we shall have put the concept of multilateral collective action into practice, which should give the Organization greater credibility.

(3.3) We should also like to share another important topic with the meeting: we believe it is necessary to devote greater attention during the new Director-General’s term of office to the dissemination of the culture of peace, which lies at the core of UNESCO’s mandate, especially as we live in a world threatened by conflicts and dangerous, adverse phenomena, such as religious extremism, terrorism, human trafficking and illegal migrations. In our view, what is needed is innovative efforts by the Secretariat, with full coordination among the Education, Science, and Communication and Information Sectors, on how to strengthen the role of the culture of peace so as to tackle the above-mentioned phenomena.

(3.4) Mr Chairperson, I believe that we have agreed on many occasions on the need for UNESCO to focus on what distinguishes UNESCO in its mandate from other United Nations agencies and organizations. We should also like to add our voice to that of numerous other delegations on another issue, namely the importance of avoiding excessive politicization in debates and focusing instead on the substance of the issue so as to achieve the goals of this great Organization which are sorely needed by the world now more than ever.

(3.5) Mr Chairperson, Sudan appreciates the efforts exerted by the Education Sector in UNESCO to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 4. We are pleased to point to the great attention devoted to the

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education sector in Sudan with a view to achieving that goal. Sudan hopes to have greater cooperation with UNESCO in that field, and especially in teacher training and the promotion of technical and vocational eduation and training (TVET).

(3.6) Concerning the Natural Sciences Sector, Sudan approves UNESCO’s action in that field, and appreciates the efforts of that sector in shouldering responsibilities that are closely linked to all 17 Sustainable Development Goals. In this connection, my delegation recommends giving top priority to the programme to which the Member States gave top priority in 2013, with water and the environment at the top of the list, in addition to the science, technology and innovation (STI) programmes, in view of the great role they have to play in the advancement of nations. My delegation also commends the Culture Sector and the World Heritage Centre for their important role in promoting UNESCO’s message and heightening its visibility; we appreciate their cooperation with Sudan.

(3.7) Mr Chairperson, in the light of the poor funding levels in the Secretariat, the Sudanese delegation would like to commend the achievements of the category 2 centres and UNESCO Chairs in promoting the goals of the Organization. We reiterate our support for their varous activities in Sudan in view of their effectiveness in raising awareness in the various fields of work of UNESCO. With regard to the activity of the category 2 Regional Centre on Capacity Development and Research in Water Harvesting established in Sudan, I am pleased to inform you of the numerous activities undertaken by that centre in the field of capacity building at the Arab and African levels. We should like to note that the Centre is planning to hold a world conference on water harvesting in 2018 as part of its global responsibilities towards the Global Network on Water and Development Information for Arid Lands (IHP/G-WADI). We look forward to support from the International Hydrological Programme (IHP) for that activity, and invite Member States interested in that field to attend and participate in the conference.

(3.8) Mr Chairperson, given the importance of the national offices, the Sudanese delegation wishes to stress the importance of objective and careful evaluation of such offices in view of the useful work performed by them, whatever their current size. In this connection, my delegation would like to commend the outstanding performance of the UNESCO Office in Khartoum in recent years, with its support and promotion of eight UNESCO Chairs, in addition to a category 2 regional centre, its communications with regional bureaux and the UNESCO Secretariat in Paris, and its involvement in numerous successful national and regional activities in the fields of education, science, culture and communication. Finally, my delegation would like to reaffirm its continued cooperation with UNESCO in all its fields of work, and looks forward to the Organization’s ongoing support, for which we express our sincere thanks and appreciation.

:النص الكامل طرق ١-٤أن نضم بسم اهللا الرمحن الرحيم، شكرا سيدي الرئيس، نود ابتداء

كل من تقدم بالتعزية للشعوب املتضررة من الكوارث إىل أصوات صوتنا

سيدي الرئيس، . الطبيعية واإلرهاب األعمىهذه ،السالم عليكم ورمحة اهللا وبركاته ،الكرمي احلضور السعادة، أصحاب

يرينا بوكوفا اليت بذلت مثاينإ فنحن نود ع مديرتنا العامة السيدة استثنائية الدورة ،هلذه املنظمة العريقةإدارهتا سنوات من عمرها يف خدمة العامل من خالل

ونتمىن هلا كل التوفيق يف حياهتا القادمة خارج أسوار هذه املنظمة. فكما نود ع األسوار. كماه هناك مدينة مجيلة خارج هذ :قالت يل مازحة باألمس

ووربس الذي نشكره ميخائيلرئيس اجمللس التنفيذي، السيد الصديق ،رئيسناعلى جهوده يف إدارة جلسات جملسنا هذا، متمنيني له كل التوفيق يف حياته

نستقبل مديرا عاما جديدا أو وهكذا هي احلياة. ، نود ع ونستقبل املستقبلية.تستمر اليوم سو جوالت االقرتاعت باألمس بدأ فقد ،مديرة عامة جديدة

واأليام التالية ونتمىن أن يتسلم زمام هذه املنظمة من هو األقدر على إدارهتا لتحقيق أهدافها السامية.

إن دولة قطر تفتخر ، سيدي الرئيس، اإلخوة واألخوات األعزاء ٢-٤ لتعليم االت ايف تقارير األمم املتحدة يف جم حبصوهلا على املراكز املتقدمة

تقدمة راكز مكما أ�ا أحرزت م والصحة وحقوق اإلنسان واحلوكمة والشفافية.العمل دل علىي اوهذ، مستوى العامل ويف الدول العربية يف هذه اجملاالت على

ن سنحت وم ا. تضع بناء اإلنسان يف أعلى سل م أولوياهت اليت الدؤوب لدولتناطرية أعلى أة القى بنفسه كيف تتبوأ املر له الفرصة منكم لزيارة دولة قطر، رأ

وياته.من خالل التحصيل العلمي بأعلى مستو املناصب جبدارة واقتدار

أن أؤكد أود من خالل كلميت هذه و ٣-٤ دولة قطر كانت وستبقى أن طر ق ك ر لدولة م املبوذلك نابع من االهتما ،داعمة لليونسكو يف براجمها املتنوعة

عم �ا تدأما ك .نسنيوالعلوم والبحث العلمي واملساواة بني اجلبالتعليم والرتاث خالل مجيع اجلهود والربامج املتعلقة مبكافحة اإلرهاب من بشكل خاص

ج يدا الربام تساهم بشكل فعال يف تنفيذ هذهال تزال وقد سامهت و ،التعليماطرة خن أذكر خريا أأوامسحوا يل بيد مع بقية الدول األعضاء يف املنظمة.

منظمة منذ لسابقني للأمساء املدراء العامني اإىل قليب: لقد كنت أنظر إىل قريبة يها فمل أجد و ورأيت أن هناك عشرة مدراء عامني ، سبعني عاما قبلإنشائها

زيال .ج منصفة وشكرا دورة فأرجو أن تكون هذه الدورة ،لعريب امسا (4.1) Qatar in extenso (translation from the Arabic): Bismillāh ir-raḥmān ir-raḥīm (In the name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate). Thank you, Mr Chairperson. We should like, first of all, to add our voice to that of all those who have offered condolences to the peoples who have endured natural catastrophes and acts of blind terrorism. Mr Chairperson, Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, as-salāmu ‘alaikum wa-raḥmatu llāhi wa-barakātuh (Peace and the mercy and blessings of God be upon you). This session is exceptional, as we take leave of our Director-General, Irina Bokova, who has spent eight years of her life in the service of the world by managing this venerable Organization. We wish her every success in her future life outside the walls of this Organization. As she said to me in jest yesterday, “There is a beautiful city outside these walls.” We also take leave of our Chairperson, the Chairperson of the Executive Board, our friend Mr Michael Worbs, whom we thank for his efforts in steering the meetings of the Board. We wish him every success in his future life. We take leave and we greet – such is life – we will greet a new Director-General: the rounds of voting began yesterday, and are set to continue today and over the coming days.

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We hope that the person who takes over the reins of this Organization will be the one who is best able to manage it to enable it to achieve its lofty goals.

(4.2) Mr Chairperson, dear brothers and sisters, Qatar is proud of the ranking it has achieved in United Nations reports on education, health, human rights, governance and transparency. It has also achieved high rankings in these fields both at the global level and among the Arab States. This points to the persistent work of our country, which puts building human beings at the top of its priorities. Whoever has an opportunity to visit Qatar will see that Qatari women occupy the highest posts thanks to their merit and ability and highest levels of academic achievement.

(4.3) As part of my statement, I should like to stress that Qatar has been and will remain a supporter of UNESCO and its various programmes. This stems from an early interest on the part of Qatar in education, heritage, science and scientific research, and gender equality. It also supports, in particular, all efforts and programmes relating to the fight against terrorism by means of education. It has helped and will continue to help, in effective fashion, to implement such programmes hand-in-hand with the other Member States of the Organization. Finally, allow me to refer to something dear to my heart: I was looking at the names of the Directors-General of the Organization since its establishment 70 years ago. There have been 10 Directors-General, but I did not see a single Arab name. I hope that this session will be an equitable one. Thank you very much.

5.1 España in extenso: Señora Directora General, señoras y señores delegados permanentes: España se asocia también a la declaración de la Unión Europea y quiere unirse a todas las voces de agradecimiento a la Directora General, a la que queremos reconocer igualmente su especial amistad con España.

5.2 Permítanme también que, como otras delegaciones, aproveche la ocasión para transmitir algunos mensajes a la futura Dirección General, ya que ahora tenemos la responsabilidad de formular orientaciones en los ámbitos de trabajo esenciales de la Organización. Hemos hablado de la necesidad de concentrarnos en nuestros mandatos y de ver dónde tenemos valor añadido, pero lo que está claro es que el orden del día de esta reunión del Consejo y el de la próxima reunión de la Conferencia General prueban que hay una gran necesidad de priorizar, racionalizar y reorientar nuestro trabajo. ¿Cómo podemos hacer de esta Organización un instrumento más útil? ¿Cómo revertir una crisis que va más allá de la frágil situación financiera? Tal será la tarea fundamental del futuro Director o Directora General que elijamos en esta reunión.

5.3 En la anterior reunión, múltiples Estados preguntaron a los candidatos por la forma de superar contenciosos y pidieron una mayor implicación de la Directora General y una gestión más proactiva. En este sentido, déjenme poner un ejemplo que se nos presenta en esta reunión: tenemos que seguir avanzando en uno de los programas que han generado ciertos contenciosos, el Programa Memoria del Mundo. A este respecto, el gran proceso de consultas que ha habido durante estos años muestra el interés que suscita el Programa en la mayoría de los Estados. Avancemos, apoyemos el trabajo hecho

por los expertos y, sobre todo, recurramos a mecanismos de diálogo que eviten contenciosos futuros. Recordemos el objetivo del Programa y los principios que cimentan los programas y las convenciones de la UNESCO: plena participación de las comisiones nacionales, diálogo y mejor gestión.

5.4 Estos principios —mediación, proactividad, recuperar la confianza de los Estados, lograr una participación más amplia— nos pueden llevar a hablar de otros temas que están en el orden del día. Y quisiera hablar de un instrumento esencial que nos permite aplicar el programa de esta Organización, que es, cómo no, el Programa y Presupuesto. Desde la reunión anterior hemos debatido en profundidad sobre el 39 C/5, y partimos aquí de la premisa de la responsabilidad común de todos los Estados de contribuir al presupuesto de la Organización. El actual plan de contingencia, en plena aplicación, muestra que impagos y retrasos crecientes han generado una situación de fragilidad que hay que revertir. Tenemos la obligación jurídica de cumplir con nuestras obligaciones como Estados Miembros. Busquemos, además, junto con la Secretaría, formas adicionales para dotar de fondos a los programas que deben servir para cumplir la Agenda 2030 y lograr un desarrollo sostenible, y hagámoslo de forma pragmática, con la mayor transparencia posible. Por ello, al término de esta reunión tiene que presentarse un presupuesto consensuado, acorde con las expectativas reales y técnicamente riguroso. Jerarquicemos las prioridades para contribuir desde la UNESCO a la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo Sostenible, partiendo de la base de que las esferas de la educación, la cultura, las ciencias o la comunicación y la información son a la vez fundamento y condición del desarrollo y no son compartimentos estancos: interactúan unas con otras.

5.5 Se ha hablado mucho de la educación y quisiera hablar ahora de la cultura y de las ciencias, pero entendiendo la cultura en su sentido más amplio, que, como dijo la Directora General, ha sido incorporado como componente relevante en la estrategia de seguridad internacional, la agenda humanitaria y la diplomacia preventiva. La UNESCO, única entidad de las Naciones Unidas especializada en la cultura, puede hacer una labor específica en este campo, plenamente coordinada con los demás organismos. Para España, la cultura es esencial en el desarrollo sostenible, no en vano llevamos más de 30 años aplicando el Programa de Patrimonio para el Desarrollo, incorporando interpretaciones tradicionales de rehabilitación y protección en un contexto mucho más amplio de formación, cohesión, implicación de las comunidades y transformación social. Asimismo, para nosotros hay un componente fundamental en la cultura que es la diversidad, tanto cultural como lingüística, un valor que vertebra nuestras propias instituciones y que por ello estamos orgullosos de compartir con nuestros socios.

5.6 La protección de la biodiversidad, el crecimiento sostenible y la participación de las comunidades también están presentes en nuestro mandato, y en particular en el Programa sobre el Hombre y la Biosfera (MAB). Hemos querido aprovechar el Año Internacional del Turismo Sostenible para el Desarrollo para ampliar la aportación que desde la UNESCO se ha hecho a la interacción con el patrimonio cultural y natural. Cabe mencionar también la relación de los geoparques con estos ámbitos; a este respecto, una vez más quiero señalar que el Programa Internacional de Ciencias de la Tierra y Geoparques tiene mucho potencial, pero también conoce problemas de

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gobernanza sobre los que hay que actuar.

5.7 De manera más general quería referirme al tema de la gobernanza, presente en el orden del día y que debe seguir abordando la UNESCO, pero sobre todo en la línea de la reforma general que en las Naciones Unidas está impulsando su Secretario General. Una nueva Dirección General abre la puerta a revisar y aprovechar propuestas ya analizadas. Y para esta compleja labor, la futura Dirección General contará con el apoyo de España, plenamente implicada en el impulso de programas y comités donde sabemos que, con ideas, proyectos y nuestra experiencia, podemos avanzar. De ahí nuestras candidaturas para el Comité del Patrimonio Mundial y para el Consejo Internacional de Coordinación del MAB, sin olvidar otras áreas en las que queremos seguir trabajando.

5.8 Y permítanme también una licencia hoy. (En alemán: Le agradezco, señor Presidente, la sabiduría de que ha hecho gala.) Quiero también agradecer al Presidente y de nuevo a la Directora General estos años de colaboración con todos nosotros. Muchísimas gracias.

(5.1) Spain in extenso (translation from the Spanish): Madam Director-General, Excellencies: Spain also supports the European Union statement and wishes to add its voice to all the expressions of appreciation to the Director-General. We also wish to acknowledge her special friendship with Spain.

(5.2) Allow me also, as other representatives have done, to take this opportunity to convey some messages to the future Senior Management Team, as we are currently responsible for formulating guidelines for the Organization’s main areas of work. We have discussed the need to concentrate on our mandates and determine where our added value lies, but it is clear from the agenda of this session of the Executive Board, and from that of the next session of the General Conference, that there is a great need to prioritize, rationalize and give a new direction to our work. How can we turn this Organization into a more useful instrument? How can we recover from a crisis that goes beyond our fragile financial situation? That will be the main task of the future Director-General, whom we will elect during this session.

(5.3) At the last session of the Executive Board, several Member States asked the candidates how they would overcome disputes and called for a higher level of involvement from the Director-General, as well as more proactive management. In the same vein, let me give an example that has come up at this session. We must persevere with one of the programmes that has generated certain disputes: the Memory of the World Programme. In this respect, the many discussions held in recent years show the interest the Programme holds for most States. Let us build upon and advance the work carried out by experts and, above all, encourage a dialogue that will avoid future disputes. Let us remember the goal of the Programme and the founding principles behind UNESCO’s programmes and conventions: full participation in National Commissions, dialogue and better management.

(5.4) These principles – mediation, proactivity, the restoration of Member States’ trust and greater participation – can bring us to discuss themes other than those on the agenda. I would like to mention an

essential instrument for the implementation of this Organization’s programme: the Programme and Budget (39 C/5). Since the last session, it has been the subject of in-depth debates, given that it is the premise of all States’ common responsibility to contribute to the budget of the Organization. The current contingency plan shows that an increasing number of non-payments and delays in payment has generated a situation of fragility that must be reversed. It is our legal obligation to fulfil our commitments as Member States. Let us also, together with the Secretariat, look for additional ways to fund the programmes needed to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and bring about sustainable development, pragmatically and as transparently as possible. That way, at the end of this session, we will have a consensual budget that is in line with real expectations and technically sound. Let us put our priorities in order so that UNESCO can contribute to the 2030 Agenda, working from the assumption that the fields of education, culture, science, communication and information are both the foundation of and condition for development. They do not work in isolation but interact with each other.

(5.5) Education has been much discussed, so I would now like to talk about culture and science. I am referring to culture in its widest sense, which, as the Director-General said, has been included as an important aspect of the international security strategy, the humanitarian agenda and preventative diplomacy. As the only United Nations agency specializing in culture, UNESCO can make a specific contribution in that field, in full coordination with the other agencies. For Spain, culture is essential to sustainable development. Indeed, for more than 30 years, we have been implementing the Heritage Development programme, basing our work on our own traditional interpretations of restoration and protection in a much wider context of training, cohesion, community participation and social transformation. Moreover, in our view, a fundamental component of culture is diversity – both cultural and linguistic – a concept that forms the backbone of our own institutions and, consequently, we are proud to exchange with our peers.

(5.6) The protection of biodiversity, sustainable development and community participation also lie within our mandate, particularly in the Programme on Man and the Biosphere (MAB). We wanted to make the most of the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development to heighten UNESCO’s contribution to interacting with cultural and natural heritage. The link between geoparks and biospheres should also be mentioned. In that respect, I wish to state once more that the International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme (IGGP) has great potential, but is also experiencing governance problems that must be tackled.

(5.7) More generally, I would like to mention the issue of governance, which is one of the items on the agenda and which UNESCO must continue to address, especially in accordance with the general reform that the Secretary-General is undertaking within the United Nations. A new Senior Management Team offers the possibility of revising and using proposals that have already been analysed. The future Senior Management Team will be able to rely

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on Spain in this complex task, as we are deeply involved in launching programmes and committees which, we know, can advance with our ideas, projects and experience. That is why we have submitted candidacies for the World Heritage Committee and the International Co-ordinating Council of the MAB Programme (MAB ICC), not to mention other areas in which we would like to continue our work.

(5.8) Allow me another liberty today. (In German: Thank you, Chairperson, for the wisdom you have shown.) I would also like to thank the President of the General Conference and, once again, the Director-General, for these years of collaboration with all of us. Thank you very much.

6.1 Italie in extenso : Monsieur le Président du Conseil exécutif, Monsieur le Président de la Conférence générale, Madame la Directrice générale, chers collègues, nous voilà à un moment charnière de la vie de l'UNESCO : un bilan s'impose face à des choix importants, parmi lesquels notamment l'élection du nouveau directeur général. Ces dernières années, dans un contexte international de plus en plus difficile, face à une crise budgétaire sans précédent et devant des attaques délibérées et répétées contre le patrimoine et les identités des peuples, il faut reconnaître que nous, les États membres de cette Organisation, sommes parvenus à obtenir des résultats importants et à renforcer les thèmes qui sont au cœur du mandat de l’UNESCO. En effet, la culture a été reconnue en tant qu’instrument concret de développement économique, de croissance partagée et de respect mutuel, qui traverse en filigrane tous les objectifs du Programme 2030 ; la protection du patrimoine et des identités culturelles retient désormais l'attention des grands de la Terre, au même titre que d'autres sujets tels que l'économie, la finance ou l'environnement ; la lutte contre le trafic illicite a par ailleurs fait l'objet de plusieurs résolutions du Conseil de sécurité ; enfin, le rôle de chef de file de l'UNESCO dans la prévention de l'extrémisme violent par l'éducation a été largement reconnu. Nous avons travaillé tous ensemble pour atteindre ces résultats et nous avons toujours réussi à trouver un consensus, malgré les difficultés rencontrées sur notre chemin : c'est là le signe indiscutable que nous croyons tous encore fortement aux valeurs essentielles définies par le Traité de Londres de 1945 et par l'Acte constitutif de cette Organisation. L'Appel concernant « La protection de la culture et la promotion du pluralisme culturel » que l'Italie, avec d'autres pays, propose à cette session du Conseil exécutif en vue de son adoption par la Conférence générale, s’inscrit justement dans le contexte que je viens de décrire. Il s'agit d'une sorte de legs que nous souhaitons laisser au nouveau directeur général afin qu'il puisse poursuivre cette ligne d’action.

6.2 Permettez-moi, au nom de mon pays et à titre personnel, de remercier la Directrice générale, Irina Bokova, pour les efforts qu’elle a déployés ces dernières années afin de repositionner l'UNESCO au sein du système des Nations Unies, de renforcer sa pertinence et de la rapprocher des réalités du terrain : le rôle central de l’UNESCO dans la promotion de la culture comme vecteur de dialogue entre les peuples a enfin été reconnu. Celui – ou celle – que nous allons choisir dans quelques jours pour guider cette Organisation face aux principaux défis de notre temps devra être en mesure de s'acquitter des immenses responsabilités qui seront les siennes et qui découlent de l'Acte constitutif de l’UNESCO. Le principal

défi serait celui de construire le « citoyen global ». Grâce à une éducation de qualité et à un processus d'apprentissage interdisciplinaire, le citoyen du futur pourrait grandir en intériorisant les principes de solidarité universelle, paix, dialogue, justice, liberté, respect des droits de l'homme, non-discrimination, tolérance, respect de la diversité, liberté d'expression, sauvegarde et valorisation du patrimoine de chaque pays du monde. C’est sur ces valeurs que se fonde la « citoyenneté globale » du XXIe siècle qui doit inspirer l'action de l'UNESCO et de son prochain directeur général.

7.1 Nepal in extenso: Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Mr President of the General Conference, Madam Director-General, distinguished Members of the Executive Board, ladies and gentlemen, first of all, on behalf of the Government of Nepal, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to UNESCO for convening this Executive Board session prior to the 39th session of the General Conference. I also take this opportunity to express my deepest appreciation to other representatives for their foresight, enthusiasm and vision in steering the course of this Organization at this difficult time.

7.2 I take this opportunity to highlight a few important positive changes in Nepal that have occurred since the promulgation of the Constitution on 20 September 2015. Alongside its regular functions, the Government of Nepal has remained steadfast in its implementation of the new Constitution. We are on the right track to putting in place the federal structure of the country. For instance, we recently held local elections. As a result, all 753 local government units are now functional. Similarly, provincial and federal elections are going to be held in November and December this year. I am confident that this will see the dawn of a new era for Nepal.

7.3 Efforts to improve education will continue to be one of Nepal’s major thrusts. Following the completion of education for all (EFA) implementation, we have channelled our efforts to implement Nepal’s commitment to meet the stand-alone goal of education as enshrined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. With UNESCO’s support, Nepal is developing a road map for education for 2030. This process fully embraces the country’s new context. Our hallmarks will be equity, inclusion and quality of education. This is consistent with the aspiration of Nepal to become a middle-income country by 2030.

7.4 Science and information technology will make a large contribution to shaping the future of Nepal. We value UNESCO’s efforts in improving water security and understanding climate change. As one of our most important resources, rivers originating in Nepal not only help sustain the lives and livelihoods of all Nepalis but also symbolize Nepal’s culture and traditions. We therefore urge UNESCO to initiate a dedicated intersectoral programme linking “life and rivers”. Thus we also support the amendment tabled by Mexico and some other Member States for implementing UNESCO water programmes as a separate main line of action.

7.5 Use of new technology and its openness can be instrumental in revitalizing economies, improving education and creating jobs, especially for young people. Nepal urges UNESCO to enhance delivery of such programmes and also to make them more inclusive.

7.6 While still engaged in reconstruction and recovery work after the 2015 earthquake, Nepal recently

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experienced heavy floods in the southern part of the country. As a result, education as well as other UNESCO priority areas have been badly affected. While Nepal deeply appreciates UNESCO’s support in spearheading the rehabilitation efforts, the Government of Nepal would like to see enhanced cooperation for safeguarding our rich natural and cultural heritage and for the reconstruction of damaged educational establishments.

7.7 Globally, either due to the occurrence of natural disasters or deliberately through barbaric attacks, there has been a significant increase in the destruction of cultural heritage. Nepal appreciates UNESCO’s response in safeguarding cultural heritage and strongly urges that these efforts be further strengthened.

7.8 The significance and existence of UNESCO and its vision are more important than ever in the course of history. Nepal is strongly committed to implementing the agendas and areas enshrined in the Constitution of UNESCO as well as enhancing their visibility. However, Nepal is concerned that lack of resources has greatly impacted UNESCO’s ability to deliver. I hope this 202nd session of the Executive Board will not only result in a set of path-breaking recommendations to sharpen the focus of the Organization in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) but also a consistent resource mobilization agenda to empower UNESCO. At this juncture, I sincerely urge concerned Member States to consider augmenting their voluntary contribution to the Organization so that it can fulfil the aspirations of its Member States for the betterment of their people’s lives.

7.9 This session will also be electing a new Director-General, who will lead UNESCO for the next four years. I am confident that we will all work together in a spirit of cooperation to successfully complete the election process and elect a visionary and dynamic Director-General. Finally, I express my gratitude to Her Excellency Irina Bokova, the Director-General, and to the Chairperson of the Executive Board for the support and cooperation provided to Nepal during their tenure.

Mr Mohd Zulkifli Bin Mohammed (Malaysia) took the Chair

8.1 Serbia in extenso: Mr President of the General Conference, Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board in his temporary absence, Madam Director-General, distinguished colleagues, ladies and gentlemen, at the very moment when the membership of our Organization is about to elect a new Director-General, some words have once again to be spoken. In a world that is today at the crossroads, UNESCO's challenges are many and critical: its founding ideals and principles are being distorted, and the rise of politicization, together with structural, programme and financial crisis, is weakening its worldwide credibility. Still, the Organization is one of the few remaining collective hopes for responsibly safeguarding the values that guarantee the survival of humanity. Serbia welcomes and is encouraged by the growing recognition among Member States of this collective responsibility. The resistance to the political instrumentalization of UNESCO has indeed led to some concrete action at last, while the implementation of more effective programme prioritization – or even reorientation if necessary – and objective analysis of the Organization's capabilities is under way. Serbia is ready, as always and according to its capacities, to join, support and contribute to these positive processes.

8.2 We stand by UNESCO’s continuing efforts to

bring about visible and sustainable results in achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including ensuring quality education for all, good health and well-being, and gender equality.

8.3 Serbia highly values UNESCO’s active involvement in global coordination mechanisms aimed at responding to the education needs of people affected by crises in different parts of the world and supports the Organization’s intention of further enhancing learning opportunities for refugees, migrants and internally displaced persons. In this regard, we warmly welcome the fact that the draft programme and budget for the next biennium reflects UNESCO’s commitment to people in crises and vulnerable situations.

8.4 Combating violence, whether caused by extremist beliefs or by retrograde logic vis-à-vis gender roles, remains, in our view, one of the most important tasks of UNESCO. In that context, Serbia wholeheartedly supports all actions aimed at preserving the endangered cultural heritage of humanity. We also support the capacity-building efforts on school-related gender-based violence, led by UNESCO, in many Member States. We welcome activities aimed at reducing the gender gap in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), including the promotion of gender equality in STEM education.

8.5 In keeping with our support for the ongoing efforts to improve the governance of UNESCO, we would like to finish by expressing Serbia’s gratitude to the outgoing President of the 38th session of the General Conference, Mr Stanley Mutumba Simaata, and to the Chairperson of the Executive Board for their sincere efforts aimed at improving the governance of UNESCO's governing bodies and strengthening the spirit of consensus and teamwork. We would also like to express our appreciation and gratitude to the Director-General, Ms Irina Bokova, for her responsible and competent leadership of this organization in the past eight difficult years and to wish her all the best in her life and future endeavours.

9.1 República Dominicana in extenso: Señor Presidente de la Conferencia General, señor Presidente del Consejo Ejecutivo, señora Directora General, estimados amigos y colegas: para su tranquilidad, esta vez no voy a cantar, pero como artista les aseguro que mis palabras y motivaciones tendrán como eje principal la música, el arte y sus protagonistas. Ya no puedo considerarme un nuevo miembro de esta familia, pero confieso que ocho meses no son suficientes para conocer y dominar los temas que sustentan la UNESCO. Por eso, estas palabras solo buscan motivarlos a ustedes para seguir sosteniendo la antorcha que muestra que somos responsables de mantener girando el mundo a través de la paz. La paz es el principal motivo por el que hace más de 70 años fuimos convocados para elevar este símbolo en un lugar visible, el designio que debemos dejar patente con cada una de nuestras acciones: llevar la UNESCO al mundo y no traer el mundo a la UNESCO. Somos, si no la única, una de las pocas instituciones que puede y debe realizar sus acciones bajo el lema de la paz. Construir la paz en la mente de los hombres y de las mujeres: así reza nuestro lema, nuestro credo. Debemos hacer realidad el clamor de nuestros países y ayudarnos a nosotros mismos para no repetir historias. Este es el momento, este es el lugar y esta es la reunión de voluntades llamada a demostrar que no solo nos importa el mundo actual, sino que sobre todo nos importa su futuro.

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9.2 Quiero hacerlos partícipes de algo que hemos ido madurando en su nombre, y aunque muchos no tengan conocimiento de ello, por el estrecho margen de tiempo con que esta iniciativa ha empezado a tomar forma, les aseguro que suscitará en ustedes no solo aprobación, sino también complicidad. Desde hace unos meses la delegación dominicana ha hecho suyo el deseo de la mayoría y ha iniciado el consenso para organizar un evento que no solo nos reúna para dar forma a los proyectos que habrán de acompañarnos en los próximos meses, sino que también nos haga más útiles y capaces. El mundo espera de nosotros, ahora y todos los días, que seamos portadores del mensaje y la voluntad de que solo la paz puede y debe movernos. La iniciativa es simple y, por su magnitud, aunque pueda parecerlo, no tiene parangón en la historia del mundo. Dejemos que los artistas hablen. Después de todo, somos la única institución de este nivel que los representa. Para el próximo año, y específicamente para el 16 de noviembre, día que acertadamente la UNESCO ha proclamado Día Internacional de la Tolerancia, los alentamos a sumarse a la celebración de un concierto multitudinario en un lugar emblemático de esta ciudad que tenga como protagonistas a artistas del mundo que han utilizado su música y su presencia en el escenario para enviar un mensaje de paz a sus seguidores y convocados; artistas que, por su trayectoria y fama, pueden ser los que, bajo la sombrilla de la UNESCO, muestren su y nuestra necesidad del llamado a la paz. Como sé que no seré Quijote, porque no tengo esa vocación, iniciaré peticiones de manera inmediata para que ustedes nos reciban y poder darles los pormenores de este evento, que lleva por título “Presencia por la paz”. Estoy seguro de que ustedes no se convertirán en los molinos de viento del caballero andante y de inmediato pasarán a formar parte de la más gran comisión que jamás haya existido, pues será una comisión de 195 naciones. Para tranquilidad de ustedes, y porque sé que ha sido tema obligado en nuestras sesiones de trabajo, la realización de este evento solo necesita de su voluntad y no de fondos por parte de la Organización. El mundo, del cual somos representantes, espera de nosotros acciones que envuelvan nuestra cotidianidad y nuestro diario vivir. Solo digan “sí, sí podemos” y será una realidad que justificará aún más nuestro paso por esta nuestra casa, la UNESCO. Muchas gracias, y esperen nuestra llamada a partir de hoy mismo, porque para esto no necesitamos más que mirarnos a la cara mientras conversamos.

9.3 No quiero despedirme sin antes recordar que esta habrá de ser la última comparecencia de la República Dominicana como miembro de esta maravillosa experiencia denominada Consejo Ejecutivo. Doy las gracias a todos y cada uno de ustedes, y de manera especial a su Presidente y a la Directora General, porque gracias a ustedes aprendí que, para entender y trabajar por y para esta institución, primero hay que amar el mundo y valorarlo. Ahora pueden acusarme de soñador, pero les aseguro que no soy el único. Buenas tardes, y que nuestro voto no tenga más motivación que el futuro de la UNESCO.

(9.1) Dominican Republic in extenso (translated from the Spanish): Mr President of the General Conference, Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General, dear friends and colleagues: let me reassure you by saying that I will not sing this time, but as an artist, I assure you that my words and motivations will be guided by music, art and those

who lend themselves to their practice. I can no longer consider myself a new member of this family, but I must confess that an eight-month period is not long enough to know and master the themes that underpin UNESCO. Therefore, I wish only to motivate you to continue to carry the torch that highlights our responsibility to keep the world spinning in peace. Peace is the main reason that we gathered, more than 70 years ago, to raise this symbol in a visible place, and the intention we must promote in each of our actions, to bring UNESCO to the world and not the world to UNESCO. We are, if not the only institution, one of the few that can and must act under the white flag of peace. Building peace in the minds of men and women: that is our motto, our credo. We must make the clamour of our countries a reality, and help ourselves so that history does not repeat itself. This is the time, this is the place and this is the gathering of wills called to demonstrate that it is not only the current world that interests us, but most especially its future.

(9.2) I would like to share with you an initiative that we have been mulling over in your name, and although many know nothing about it because of its novelty, I assure you that it will earn not only your approval, but also your complicity. For a few months now, the Dominican Republic’s delegation has embraced the desire of the multitude and built consensus to organize an event that will not only unite us to shape the projects that will see us through the next months, but also heighten our use and our competence. Now and every day, the world expects us to convey the message and the conviction that peace alone can and must stir us to action. The initiative is simple and, although this may not seem obvious, it is, by its scale, unprecedented in world history. Let us allow artists to speak. After all, we are the only high-level institution to represent them. Next year, and more specifically on 16 November, the day that UNESCO has fittingly proclaimed the “International Day for Tolerance”, we encourage you to join us in celebrating a massively attended concert that will take place in an emblematic part of this city. It will feature artists from all over the world who have used their music and their place in the spotlight to convey a message of peace to their followers and fans, and who, by their background and fame, can, under the auspices of UNESCO, demonstrate their and our need to answer the call for peace. As I will not be Don Quixote – that is not my vocation – I will immediately request you to receive us so that we may give you the details of this event, entitled “Present for Peace” (Presencia por la paz). I am sure that you will not turn into the windmills of the knight errant Don Quixote, and that you will immediately join the largest commission in living history, which will gather 195 countries. For your peace of mind, and because I know it has been a compulsory theme in our work sessions, this event needs only the Organization’s approval to go ahead, and not its funds. The world, which we represent, expects our actions to encompass our daily life. You have only to say: “yes, yes we can”, and it will be a reality that will further justify our time here at UNESCO. Thank you very much, and expect to receive our call as early as today, because all this requires is that we look into each other’s eyes while we converse.

(9.3) I cannot take leave of you without first

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reminding you that this will be the last appearance of the Dominican Republic as a member of the wonderful experience known as the Executive Board. I thank each and every one of you, and especially the Chairperson and the Director-General because, thanks to you, I learned that to understand and work in the name of and for this institution, you must first love and value the world. Now, I can say that I am a dreamer, although I assure you that I am not the only one. Good afternoon, and may our vote have no other motivation than the future of UNESCO.

:الكامل النص مصر ١-١٠ السيدة العام، املؤمتر رئيس السيد التنفيذي، اجمللس رئيس السيد

تالسيدا فيذي،التن اجمللس األعضاء يف الدول ممثلو السادة العامة، املديرة الدورة ر أمامبيان مص اليوم ألقي أن سروري دواعي ملن إنه احلضور، والسادة

ريةاألخ هي لدورةا هذه أن ونظرا إىل. يالتنفيذ للمجلس املائتني بعد الثانية ستهلا أن فيهمين ا،عمله وفريق" بوكوفا" العامة املديرة والية ظل يف تنعقد اليت

عدادإل العامة مانةاليت بذلتها األ للجهود وتقديرنا شكرنا عن باإلعراب البيان تدار اليت للمشاورات التحضري عن فضال دورات، من سبقها وما الدورة هذه

.املقبلة وامليزانية اجلديد العمل برنامج بشأن

إن عاملنا اليوم ميوج مبظاهر عضاء اجمللس التنفيذي،أالسادة رئيس و ٢-١٠لغاية. اغ هذه مقلقة تدعونا إىل مضاعفة عملنا، وتستدعي تضافر اجلهود لبلو

ن قلقنا،تثريا وحرصا مين على عدم اإلطالة، فسأكتفي باإلشارة إىل ظاهرتنيالثقايف. الرتاث ستمرارية انتشار األمية، والتهديد الذي يتعرض لهاأال ومها

يف ، وحننففيما يتعلق باألمية، قد تتفقون معي على أن من غري املقبول .يون أميسني ملمستهل األلفية الثالثة، أن يعيش بيننا أكثر من سبعمائة ومخ

نظمة، ل املع يف صميم عمإن حمو األمية، أيها السادات والسادة، الذي يقو قر لى الفعيشكل نواة التعليم األساسي للجميع، وهو عامل ضروري للقضاء

يد تأيىل إالدول مجيعوضمان التنمية املستدامة. وأدعو من هذا املنطلق جملال هذا ا القرار الذي تقدم به وفد مصر لتعزيز دور اليونسكو يف مشروع

حلالية اخالل أعمال الدورة عتمدأن ي قرار نأمل و مشروعاحليوي، وهتعرض له الذي ي أما الظاهرة الثانية، فتتعلق بالتهديد غري املسبوق للمجلس.

،العربية ملنطقةالرتاث الثقايف املادي وغري املادي على حد سواء، خاصة يف ايضا ارب أفقوى التطرف واإلرهاب ال حتارب حاضرنا ومستقبلنا فقط، بل حت

حلرب علىكون يف اخلطوط األمامية يف اتيونسكو جيب أن إن الو ماضينا. القوى الداعمة والراعية لإلرهاب. وكلالفكر املتطرف

أن تأيت إىل إن مصر تتطلعالتنفيذي، عضاء اجمللس أالسادة رئيس و ٣-١٠ة إىل قبل مستندلعام املسيما اختيار املدير ا ال ،قراراتنا خالل هذه الدورة اهلامة

ن ضال عوضوعية تأخذ يف االعتبار مؤهالت وخربات كل مرشح، فمعايري مع الستما اشك أن جلسات رؤيته ملستقبل املنظمة وسبل تفعيل دورها. وال

ت ملقومااليت عقدها اجمللس يف دورته املاضية قد كشفت إىل حد كبري ا نظمة. ارة املالتطوير وإد على األساسية اليت يستند إليها كل مرشح وقدرته

إن مصر، انطالقا من التنفيذي، عضاء اجمللس أالسادة رئيس و ٤-١٠إدراكها لكل ما سبق، ومن منطلق إميا�ا مببدأ التناوب اجلغرايف فضال عن التزامها الراسخ بقيم ومبادئ اليونسكو، تقدمت مبرشحتها ملنصب املدير

ولديها الرفيع، مرشحة حتوز املؤهالت املناسبة لتبوء هذا املنصب الدويل ،العامتلك املنظمة ،نها من حتقيق أهداف اليونسكومن اخلربات والكفاءة ما ميك

العريقة اليت كرست مفهوم الرتاث العاملي وساعدت على إنقاذه واحلفاظ عليه، يف سابقة فريدة جتلت بوضوح من خالل التعاون بني مصر واليونسكو إلنقاذ

رى مرور مائيت عام على اكتشافهما معبدي أبو مسبل اللذين أحيت مصر ذك مؤخرا بفعاليات ثقافية متت يف أسوان وباريس.

أتصور أننا مجيعا جممعون على أن منظمتنا والسادة، السيدات ٥-١٠احد يق الو تتطلب مضاعفة جهودنا والعمل بروح الفر ا تواجه حتديات جسام أ�ابوأثق نظمتناقامت عليها م اليتالدولية واملبادئللحفاظ على القيم

أشكركم و .نساناإلللرتبية والثقافة والعلوم وإعالء حقوق ةستظل دوما منار على حسن االستماع.

(10.1) Egypt in extenso (translation from the Arabic): Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Mr President of the General Conference, Madam Director-General, Your Excellencies, representatives of Member States on the Executive Board, ladies and gentlemen, it is with great pleasure that I today deliver Egypt’s statement to the 202th session of the Executive Board. Since this is the last session of the Board to be held during the term of office of the Director-General, Irina Bokova, and her team, I am pleased to begin my statement by expressing our thanks and appreciation for the efforts exerted by the Secretariat in preparation for this session and previous sessions, in addition to the consultations held on the forthcoming programme and budget.

(10.2) Mr Chairperson and Members of the Executive Board, today’s world is replete with alarming phenomena which compel us to strengthen our action and pool our efforts to achieve this aim. Not wishing to talk at length on this, I shall confine myself to mentioning two phenomena which are causes for concern: the continuing prevalence of illiteracy and the threats to the cultural heritage. With regard to illiteracy, you will agree with me that it is unacceptable, at the beginning of the third millennium, that there should be some 750 million illiterates in our midst. Literacy, ladies and gentlemen, lies at the heart of our Organization’s work, and constitutes the core of basic education for all; it is an indispensable factor in eliminating poverty and ensuring sustainable development. On this basis, I call upon all States to support the draft decision proposed by the Egyptian delegation in order to strengthen the role of UNESCO in this vital field. We hope that this draft decision will be adopted at the current session of the Board. The second phenomenon concerns the unprecedented threat to the cultural heritage, both tangible and intangible, especially in the Arab region. The forces of extremism and terrorism are not only combating our present and future; they are combating our past as well. UNESCO must be at the forefront of the fight against extremist thought and all the forces that support and sponsor terrorism.

(10.3) Mr Chairperson and Members of the Executive Board, Egypt is confident that our decisions at this important session, especially the selection of the future Director-General, will be based on objective standards which take into consideration the qualifications and competencies of each candidate, in addition to their vision for the future of the Organization and ways of bolstering its role. There is little doubt that the interviews held at the previous session of the Board will have been instrumental in revealing, to a large extent, the basic attributes of each candidate and their capacity to develop and manage the Organization.

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(10.4) Mr Chairperson and Members of the Executive Board, Egypt, being aware of all the foregoing, and being convinced of the principle of geographical rotation in addition to being firmly attached to the values and principles of UNESCO, has put forward its candidate for the post of Director-General, a candidate who has the right qualifications to occupy that high-level international post. She has the skills and competence which enable her to achieve the goals of UNESCO, that venerable Organization which has consecrated the concept of the world heritage and helped to save and preserve it, setting a unique precedent which was clearly manifest in the cooperation between Egypt and UNESCO to save the twin temples of Abu Simbel, the 200th anniversary of whose discovery was celebrated by Egypt recently with cultural events held in Aswan and Paris.

(10.5) Ladies and gentlemen, I believe that we are all agreed that our Organization is facing tremendous challenges which require us to redouble our efforts and work as a single team to preserve the international values and principles on which our Organization was founded. I am confident that it will always remain a beacon for education, culture and science and the furtherance of human rights. Thank you for your attention.

11.1 Saint Kitts and Nevis in extenso: Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General, esteemed colleagues, the essence of my message today is to reiterate my sentiment that the occurrence of not only one but two Category 5 hurricanes that ripped through the Caribbean small States a few weeks ago causing unprecedented devastation should truly be a wake-up call to this Organization and one that offers an opportunity to activate more timely and tangible intervention in these affected states and territories.

11.2 The passage of these monstrous storms and their impact on our fragile eco-economies speaks volumes about the vulnerability of small island developing States (SIDS), which increasingly face more frequent and violent natural disasters. Driven by climate change, this is a phenomenon which is real and unstoppable and has ethical and social consequences that need to be addressed. It is evident that climate change poses an immediate threat to the very existence of persons living in SIDS and risks tipping these citizens, already impoverished, further into poverty.

11.3 Mass migration and displaced persons are also becoming a reality as residents are driven out of their sanctuaries by these monstrous weather systems. This is a new normal that cannot be treated with redundant policies and practices. UNESCO must now therefore connect the dots and articulate on our behalf the required mechanisms in building resilience and capacity in SIDS by developing policies for adaptation and mitigation, with an emphasis on addressing the vulnerabilities.

11.4 It is for these same reasons that we continue to urge UNESCO, through its Institute for Statistics (UIS), to apply a more disaggregated level of data for development indicators and a reclassification of the GDP criteria relating to SIDS. Critically, we urge the Institute to address this misplaced per capita criteria, used for accessing funding, by working more closely with the World Bank, which has already initiated a similar project aimed at defining vulnerability and resilience factors for certain States.

11.5 Additionally, and especially in times of natural disaster and human crisis, it is incumbent on UNESCO to protect our most sacred educational institutions and world-class heritage sites, which are under UNESCO’s direct watch. This must be part of the central thrust to assist affected states in their transformation to develop a more robust and sustainable developmental strategy in order to be more resilient to climate change. The Caribbean region in particular is engaged in a war with climate change that we did not start. We were asked to cash a cheque that we did not want.

11.6 Moreover, it is becoming blatantly obvious that the status quo with respect to financing UNESCO is no longer sustainable. The implementation and execution of its good work, including cutting-edge policy advice to Member States, simply can no longer be at the mercy of some Member States not paying their annual contributions, to the detriment of others and especially to the detriment of smaller States. Delinquent Member States must be held more responsible and some form of sanction should be considered, such as loss of voting rights and restriction of access to certain meetings at UNESCO Headquarters and around the world.

11.7 Mr Chairperson, in conclusion, as we move towards new leadership at UNESCO, my Government wishes to put on record our sincere gratitude to the Director-General and her excellent staff for the success achieved and the strong focus on reform, gender equity and geographical distribution of staff over the last eight years, in spite of the unforeseen circumstances and political crisis that confronted the Organization. We look forward to welcoming a new management team that is fit for purpose and well-positioned to seize the opportunities and handle the challenges ahead.

12.1 Uganda in extenso: Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Mr President of the General Conference, Madam Director-General, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, as we commence business at this 202nd session of the Executive Board, the delegation of Uganda joins other delegations in expressing their utmost sympathy and condolences to the governments and people of Mexico, the United States, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Saint Lucia, the Virgin Islands and Japan, following a recent wave of natural disasters spanning earthquakes, hurricanes, typhoons, storms and flooding. Although words can do little, please rest assured of Uganda’s deepest sympathies. On that note, Uganda wishes to reiterate that climate change is real, and it therefore appeals to nations still in doubt to renew their support for the 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the 2015 Paris Agreement on Climate Change .

12.2 Since our last session in April 2017, Uganda has made a number of positive strides within UNESCO’s fields of competence. On the frontier of global citizenship education, Uganda has already conducted a local situational analysis, developed and begun piloting associated curriculum material, trained teachers and mobilized the necessary fiscal and monetary support for this enterprise.

12.3 In the fields of social and human sciences, and related youth affairs, my delegation is happy to report that the Uganda National Commission for UNESCO is working with the Uganda Episcopal Conference in a unique pilot youth empowerment project in previously war-torn

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northern Uganda to transform youth into agents of peacebuilding and socioeconomic development. As you are all aware, northern Uganda is renowned for the longest-running insurgency in Africa in the 1990s and 2000s, by Joseph Kony’s Lord's Resistance Army. The region’s schools are now the laboratories for implementing the project with the young people channelling their energies in the right direction using home-grown social and human sciences study programmes. Already the project is showing impressive potential for replication across other former areas of conflicts in Africa.

12.4 In this connection, Mr Chairperson and Excellencies, my delegation wishes to draw your attention to one of the category 2 institutes and centres funded by Member States in support of UNESCO’s strategic programme objectives. The centre concerned is the Lilongwe-based Guidance, Counselling and Youth Development Centre for Africa (GCYDCA) established by African Ministers of Education in 1994 as a regional centre to coordinate and manage guidance, counselling and development of youth in Africa. Sincerely grateful to the Malawian Government for the land for the centre and having granted it diplomatic status, Uganda is one of the sixteen initial States Parties that agreed to establish the centre. Through financial resources and relevant logistics from UNESCO and the provision of annual subscriptions, technical support and human resources by Member States, the centre continued to live up to expectations as recently as 2015. However, since 2016 some confusion has arisen owing to the fact that the centre has gained national academic accreditation from the host country and been renamed the Africa University of Guidance, Counselling and Youth Development, with the result that most Member States have become disconnected from it save for Uganda, South Africa and Nigeria. Madam Director-General, my delegation would appreciate some clarification regarding continuity of the entity’s category 2 status and the way forward for its supposedly rotational leadership/management system.

12.5 In closing, the delegation of Uganda also wishes to join previous speakers in bidding farewell to our outgoing Director-General as well as the Chairperson of the Board, Ambassador Worbs. The Ugandan delegation wishes to say a big thank you to Your Excellency, Madam Director-General Irina Bokova, for all the charisma you have exerted throughout your term of office for UNESCO to prosper, for being a great colleague and friend and in fact a personal friend of Uganda, and we wish you the very best for a long and happy retirement, hopefully in Uganda, as you may recall having expressed this wish at a farewell luncheon of Uganda’s former Ambassador to France, Her Excellency Nimisha Madhvani, in April this year.

12.6 Finally, by close of business of this 202nd session, my term of office as a Board Member will also expire. As there may be no other opportunity to express my appreciation of you all, I end these farewell remarks with the reflection that it has been a great privilege for me to serve this highly reputed Organization, and I thank my State party, Uganda, for having given me the opportunity and for UNESCO for having accepted me to serve in this position. My entire tenure of office on the Board has been a most fulfilling opportunity to gain valuable experience in the dynamics of the United Nations system. I thank you all for your friendship and the honour of having worked with you. For colleagues whose membership is also expiring with this 202nd session, I wish you the very best as you

move to other careers, and for the rest of you who will stay on, I wish you much success in your deliberations.

13.1 Российская Федерация полный текст: Уважаемые коллеги. Нынешняя сессия Исполнительного совета проходит на фоне ключевого события в жизни ЮНЕСКО – выборов нового Генерального директора. Понятно, какое значение они приобретают в нынешний момент существования нашей Организации. Однако прежде всего я хотел бы выразить признательность и благодарность госпоже Ирине Боковой за ее умелое руководство нашей Организацией на протяжении последних восьми лет. Вполне закономерно, что с будущим Генеральным директором государства-члены связывают надежды на новый этап в деятельности ЮНЕСКО. В то же время не следует воспринимать будущего руководителя Секретариата как некоего мессию, способного одним махом решить все проблемы. Главная ответственность за будущее ЮНЕСКО принадлежит государствам-членам, то есть нам с вами. Выборы дают нам возможность проявить политическую волю и оказать реальную поддержку нашей Организации.

13.2 В последнее время в ЮНЕСКО мы часто слышим термин «инклюзивность». Страны-члены хотят быть больше вовлеченными в деятельность ЮНЕСКО, в процессы обсуждения и принятия решений. Это естественное и легитимное стремление. Но первое, в чем необходима настоящая инклюзивность – это выплата взносов в бюджет Организации. К сожалению, более трети стран-членов числятся в должниках. Рассматриваем отказ от выплаты взносов, тем более если он политически мотивирован, как серьезное нарушение Устава и Положения о финансах. К сожалению, к этой неблаговидной практике прибегают крупные плательщики, в том числе постоянные члены Совета Безопасности ООН, несущие особую ответственность за нормальное функционирование системы ООН.

13.3 Второй способ обеспечения инклюзивности состоит в необходимости договориться о приоритетах программной деятельности. Невозможно до бесконечности урезать бюджет и одновременно подбрасывать Секретариату все новые и новые задачи. Сейчас буквально на наших глазах формируется «ЮНЕСКО а ля карт», когда Организация фактически лишена бюджетных ресурсов на программы, а ее персонал отрабатывает проекты по заказу доноров. В итоге страдают традиционные приоритеты ЮНЕСКО, особенно в том, что касается интересов африканских стран. Инклюзивность необходима и в осуществлении реформы. Если те или иные предложения, тем более влекущие за собой изменение Устава или Правил процедуры, не пользуются консенсусом, то такая реформа не может быть эффективной.

13.4 И, наконец, третье направление инклюзивности – это отказ от политизации. Разумеется, мы не настолько наивны, чтобы воспринимать ЮНЕСКО как «башню из слоновой кости», отрезанную от политических проблем современности. Но ведь должны же существовать некие «красные линии». Государства-члены должны проявлять ответственность, воздерживаясь от внесения в повестку дня вопросов, которые не соответствуют мандату ЮНЕСКО либо заведомо не могут быть решены в его рамках и по сути ведут к размежеванию среди членов Организации.

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13.5 Мандат ЮНЕСКО «сеять мир в умах мужчин и женщин» востребован как никогда. Организация способна и востребована внести свой вклад в общие усилия по противодействию терроризму, экстремизму и ксенофобии. На это нацеливает и резолюция Совета Безопасности ООН 2354, в которой ЮНЕСКО отводится особая роль по предупреждению радикализации средствами образования. Необходимо воспитывать, прежде всего у молодежи, уважение культурно-цивилизационного многообразия современного мира. Наша Организация не может оставаться в стороне, когда попираются ее нормативные акты. Имею в виду Конвенцию о борьбе с дискриминацией в области образования, положения которой грубо нарушены в связи с принятием на Украине закона «Об образовании».

13.6 И несколько слов о еще одной важной задаче ЮНЕСКО – о защите мирового культурного наследия. Совет Безопасности ООН принял на этот счет историческую резолюцию 2347. Наша страна активно участвует в осуществлении задач, поставленных в этом решении. В частности, важным событием на этом направлении стало подписание вчера «Меморандума о взаимопонимании по вопросу об охране и восстановлении культурных ценностей в зонах конфликтов, прежде всего на Ближнем Востоке». Этот документ был подписан между ЮНЕСКО и Государственным Эрмитажем.

13.7 Уважаемые коллеги, мы убеждены, что наша Организация не может оставаться равнодушной, когда в цивилизованной Европе допускают снос памятников освободителям континента, героям Второй мировой войны, победа в которой создала фундамент ООН. Считаем необходимым в рамках ЮНЕСКО безотлагательно уделить этой проблеме приоритетное внимание и обеспечить правовую основу для пресечения подобных действий. Мы уверены, что, несмотря на все переживаемые сложности, наша Организация по-прежнему способна эффективно работать на укрепление доверия и взаимопонимания между странами и народами, на развитие диалога культур и религий, на защиту культурного многообразия и непреходящих нравственных ценностей. Благодарю вас.

(13.1) Russian Federation·in extenso (translation from the Russian): Dear colleagues, this session of the Executive Board is taking place against the backdrop of a key event in the life of UNESCO: the election of a new Director-General. It is easy to understand how important this election is at this moment in our Organization’s existence. But first of all, I should like to express my thanks and appreciation to Ms Irina Bokova for her able leadership of the Organization over the past eight years. It is absolutely right that the Member States should pin their hopes on the next Director-General in the coming phase of UNESCO’s activities. At the same time, the next Director-General should not be taken to be some kind of Messiah who can solve all problems at a single stroke. The main responsibility for the future of UNESCO lies with the Member States, in other words, with you. This election affords us an opportunity to demonstrate political will and to provide genuine support to our Organization.

(13.2) In recent times in UNESCO we have often heard the term “inclusiveness”. The Member States wish to be more involved in UNESCO’s activity, in the

discussion and decision-making processes. This is a natural and legitimate aspiration. But the first matter on which inclusiveness is needed is the payment of assessed contributions to the Organization. Unfortunately, more than one third of Member States are in arrears. We consider a refusal to pay dues, especially when it is politically motivated, as a serious violation of the Constitution and the Financial Regulations. Unfortunately, several major contributors are indulging in this regrettable practice, including permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, who have a particular responsibility to ensure the normal functioning of the United Nations system.

(13.3) The second way of ensuring inclusiveness involves the need to agree on what the priorities of programme activity should be. We cannot endlessly continue to whittle away the budget while at the same time entrusting the Secretariat with more and more new functions. We are literally seeing the formation, before our very eyes, of a UNESCO à la carte, in which the Organization is deprived of budgetary resources for its regular programmes, while staff execute projects requested by donors. As a result, UNESCO’s traditional priorities suffer, especially where the interests of African countries are concerned. Inclusiveness is also necessary for the implementation of reforms. Where certain proposals, particularly those that entail modifications of the Constitution or the Rules of Procedure, have not secured consensus, such reforms cannot be effective.

(13.4) Finally, the third type of inclusiveness means refusing politicization. Naturally, we are not so naïve as to take UNESCO for an “ivory tower”, which is isolated from the political questions of the day. All the same, there need to be certain “red lines”. The Member States need to act responsibly and refrain from including in the agenda issues which do not come under UNESCO’s mandate or which are known not to be solvable within the framework of the Organization, and which in effect engender divisions among the Member States.

(13.5) UNESCO’s mandate to construct the defences of peace in the minds of men and women is needed now more than ever. The Organization can and is called upon to make its contribution to joint efforts to combat terrorism, extremism and xenophobia. This is also the aim of Security Council resolution 2354 (2017), in which UNESCO is accorded a particular role in the prevention of radicalization by means of education. There is a need to inculcate, especially among young people, respect for the cultural and civilizational diversity of today’s world. Our Organization must not remain on the sidelines when its standard-setting instruments are trampled on. I have in mind the Convention against Discrimination in Education, which has been blatantly violated by the adoption in the Ukraine of the Law on Education.

(13.6) Allow me to say a few words about another important task of UNESCO: the protection of the world’s cultural heritage. In this connection, the United Nations Security Council has adopted its historic resolution 2347 (2017). Our country is actively contributing to the implementation of tasks set forth in that resolution. In particular, a key event in this regard was the signature, yesterday, between UNESCO and the State Hermitage Museum of a memorandum of

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understanding on the preservation and restoration of cultural property in conflict areas, notably in the Middle East.

(13.7) Dear colleagues, we are convinced that our Organization must not remain indifferent when in civilized Europe people allow monuments to the liberators of the continent to be torn down, monuments to the heroes of the Second World War, as the result of which the victors laid the foundations of UNESCO. We believe that UNESCO should devote priority to that matter without delay and ensure a juridical basis for the criminalization of such acts. We are convinced that, notwithstanding all the complications it is undergoing, our Organization will continue to be able to work effectively to strengthen trust and mutual understanding between countries and peoples in order to develop the dialogue of cultures and religions and to preserve cultural diversity and immutable ethical values. Thank you.

14.1 Guinée in extenso : Madame la Directrice générale, Monsieur le Président de la Conférence générale, Monsieur le Président du Conseil exécutif, chers collègues et amis, Mesdames et Messieurs, on dit chez nous que les vrais amis sont ceux qui vous disent la vérité, pas ceux qui vous disent ce que vous voulez entendre. Je voudrais vous dire, Madame Bokova, que je suis de ce genre d’amis. Je vous remercie pour le travail que vous avez accompli au cours des huit dernières années difficiles pour l’UNESCO.

14.2 Mesdames et Messieurs, l’Afrique fait face à de nombreux défis relevant des domaines de compétence de notre Organisation, et en premier lieu celui de l’éducation et de la formation. En effet, sans l’éducation et la formation, pour lesquelles les financements sont toujours difficiles à mobiliser, aucun progrès n’est envisageable. Le défi de l’accès aux nouvelles technologies de l’information et de la communication et de leur développement nous interpelle également. Ces deux défis ont des visages, le cœur plein d’espoir et la tête pleine de projets, mais pas de moyens : ce sont les jeunes. Les moins de 30 ans constituent 70 % de la population africaine et représentent pour nous à la fois une espérance et un danger. La bombe qui nous menace, c’est celle de cette jeunesse africaine de plus en plus instruite, de plus en plus connectée mais de moins en moins intégrée au processus de développement économique et social de nos pays. Le défi que représentent les femmes n’est pas seulement lié à leur autonomisation, qui est indispensable, mais aussi à la sous-utilisation de leur formidable potentiel multiplicateur de biens. En effet, une femme instruite, aux revenus satisfaisants, apporte plus au ménage qu’un homme disposant des mêmes capacités. Les 54 pays africains indépendants peuvent être différents, mais j’insiste sur le fait que ces défis, parmi d’autres, leur sont communs.

14.3 L’enseignement technique et professionnel pourrait nous aider à promouvoir l’emploi des jeunes, des filles et des femmes. L'enseignement tient une place prépondérante dans le développement d’un pays, et il convient de mettre l’accent en particulier sur les formations techniques et professionnelles, qui sont insuffisamment représentées dans le système éducatif de notre pays, avec seulement 36 200 apprenants en 2015. Cette situation nuisant à l’employabilité de nos jeunes pose un problème social. Nous avons créé des écoles régionales des arts et métiers (ERAM) sur l'ensemble du territoire, en vue de former 75 000 apprenants à l'horizon 2025. Un autre objectif est d’encourager les filles à opter

pour les filières techniques et professionnelles. Désireux de mener à bien et de consolider ce système de formation technique et professionnelle, mon pays sollicite à cet effet le soutien et l'expertise de l'UNESCO.

14.4 À chacune de nos sessions, nous réaffirmons notre engagement en faveur du renforcement du Département Afrique, gage de la réussite des programmes de la priorité Afrique. Même si nous approuvons son plan d’action, nous sommes toujours inquiets quant à sa mise en œuvre. Comme vous le savez sans doute, les ressources financières sont sous la responsabilité des secteurs de programme. Tant que cela durera, le Département sera une coquille vide. Quant à notre dispositif hors Siège, il souffre des mêmes carences, à savoir d’un manque de fonds et de personnel, ce qui nuit à sa visibilité. Concernant l’évaluation des réunions intersessions, j’adhère à la recommandation du groupe de travail tendant à revenir au groupe préparatoire. Je rappelle aussi qu’avec 54 États membres, l’Afrique n’a pas un seul sous-directeur général de programme.

14.5 Mesdames et Messieurs, je rêve d’une UNESCO chantre du savoir. Il y a des jours dans la vie qui marquent. Ceux que nous vivons en ce moment, avec l’élection du directeur général, ont une importance capitale pour notre Organisation. Il ne serait pas inutile de faire un état des lieux pour permettre à la nouvelle direction de partir sur de bonnes bases. C’est d’ailleurs une pratique courante en matière de gestion. Il serait intéressant de savoir ce qu’est devenu le rapport du consultant Goldin sur les services centraux, qui a coûté quelque 40 000 dollars à l'Organisation. J’ai toujours rêvé d’une UNESCO brillant dans l’univers intellectuel et ayant de grandes ambitions dans le domaine du savoir. Pour cela, nous devons élire la personne capable de redonner à notre Organisation son lustre d’antan. J’ai consacré plus de 30 ans de ma vie professionnelle à cette Maison, ce qui peut expliquer le ton parfois passionné de mes interventions.

15.1 Slovenia in extenso: Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, ladies and gentlemen, it gives me great pleasure to address you today at this 202nd session of the Executive Board. Allow me first to thank the Director-General Irina Bokova for her important work during her term of office. Even in difficult times she was able to ensure UNESCO’s visibility, especially when working on building peace in the minds of men and women.

15.2 We have before us the important task of electing a new Director-General of UNESCO, and Slovenia is looking forward to working together in support of a stronger UNESCO that will be able to meet global challenges in education, science and culture when implementing the sustainable development goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. We aim for UNESCO to have a new Director-General with integrity and the capacity to reform the Organization within the United Nations system with its unique mandate. Moreover, we strongly believe that UNESCO deserves a structured budget focused on priorities and relevant programmes that are in alignment with UNESCO`s mandate.

15.3 Dear colleagues, at the forthcoming session of the General Conference we will have an opportunity to discuss the way forward regarding international collaboration in the field of open educational resources (OER) and the outcomes of the 2nd World Open Educational Resources (OER) Congress that took place in

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Ljubljana last September. International collaboration on OER is one of the ways of implementing Sustainable Development Goal 4 on quality education. I am confident that a short report on the 2nd World OER Congress as well as the two adopted outcome documents – the Ljubljana OER Action Plan and the Ministerial Statement – will soon be available as information documents complementing the texts that are already online.

15.4 Until then I would like to share with you some very brief information about the Congress, organized by UNESCO and the Slovenian Ministry of Education, Science and Sport in close collaboration with the Commonwealth of Learning, Creative Commons, the Slovenian National Commission for UNESCO and the UNESCO Chair on Open Technologies for Open Educational Resources and Open Learning with the generous support of the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation. In preparation for the 2nd World OER Congress, six regional consultations and two international surveys on OER were organized by the previously mentioned organizations in six host countries: Malaysia, Malta, Qatar, Mauritius, Brazil and New Zealand.

15.5 The 2nd World OER Congress, which brought together 500 participants from 100 countries, marked 15 years of growth and development in open-licensed learning and teaching resources since the term “OER” was first coined at UNESCO in 2002. The theme of the 2nd World OER Congress was “OER for Inclusive and Equitable Quality Education: From Commitment to Action”, reflecting the pivotal role OER can play in achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and above all Sustainable Development Goal 4 on quality education. At the Congress a ministerial panel comprising 14 ministers of education and higher education underscored the need to develop greater diversity of languages for learning materials, policies to develop capacity of and partnership with teachers, and the need for both online and offline access options to broaden the reach of OER. Please allow me to express my sincere appreciation to the UNESCO Education Sector as well as the Communication and Information Sector for their excellent cooperation; I would also like to highlight the valuable contribution of the Knowledge Societies Division in preparing and organizing this successful event.

15.6 To conclude, allow me to inform you that Slovenia has taken over the chair of the Platform for Human Rights Education and Training from 1 July 2017 for six months. The Platform is composed of ten countries: Austria, Brazil, Costa Rica, Italy, Morocco, the Philippines, Senegal, Slovenia, Switzerland and Thailand. We aim to raise awareness of the importance of human rights education for sustainable development and to build resilience. This is yet another effort in support of implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 4.7.

16.1 Côte d’Ivoire in extenso : Monsieur le Président du Conseil exécutif, Madame la Directrice générale, honorables Chefs de délégation, Mesdames et Messieurs, la présente session m'offre l'agréable occasion d'adresser les salutations de la Côte d'Ivoire au Président du Conseil exécutif et à la Directrice générale de l'UNESCO, Madame lrina Bokova. Madame la Directrice générale, nous vous exprimons solennellement notre gratitude pour l'excellente relation que vous avez su tisser entre l'UNESCO et notre pays. Nous vous disons également toute notre fierté pour votre leadership, votre humanisme et votre sens élevé du devoir au service de la paix.

16.2 Mesdames et Messieurs, en ces temps agités, la Côte d'Ivoire adresse ses sincères condoléances pour toutes les victimes des régions du monde frappées par le terrorisme et les catastrophes naturelles. Mon pays condamne l'extrémisme violent qui conduit à des tragédies et s'engage à promouvoir la fraternité, valeur véhiculée par son hymne, ainsi que la paix et la tolérance chères à son premier Président, feu Félix Houphouët-Boigny, dont le Prix UNESCO pour la recherche de la paix porte le nom. Les catastrophes naturelles prenant de l'ampleur dans le monde, la Côte d'Ivoire interpelle les instances internationales au plus haut niveau afin qu'elles fassent de la préservation de la nature et de l'environnement une priorité. Elle réaffirme son soutien aux recommandations issues des travaux de la COP-21 et de la COP-22 et demande à l'UNESCO d'en tenir compte dans ses programmes.

16.3 Mesdames et Messieurs, la priorité Afrique, avec ses programmes phares et ses directives opérationnelles, nous offre l’opportunité de contribuer au développement durable de l'Afrique, de promouvoir les valeurs africaines et d’édifier des sociétés inclusives, participatives et résilientes. C’est la raison pour laquelle les résultats escomptés du 39 C/5 en cours d'élaboration doivent être alignés sur ceux de cette priorité.

16.4 La Côte d'Ivoire encourage par ailleurs le dialogue entre le Secrétariat et les États membres et invite à poursuivre les concertations afin de trouver le moyen le plus adéquat de favoriser les échanges et de préparer plus efficacement les sessions du Conseil exécutif.

16.5 Mesdames et Messieurs, nul ne peut ignorer aujourd'hui que l’alphabétisation demeure l'un des défis majeurs à relever pour parvenir au développement durable. À cet égard, l'Alliance mondiale pour l'alphabétisation, qui œuvre pour faire reculer l'analphabétisme dans le monde, mérite notre soutien. La Côte d'Ivoire, qui en assure la coprésidence, a présenté avec plusieurs pays un projet de décision qui a rencontré une forte adhésion, demandant à la Directrice générale de prévoir des ressources ordinaires et extrabudgétaires pour la mise en œuvre de son plan d’action. La Côte d'Ivoire propose par ailleurs que chaque État membre crée une « alliance nationale pour l'alphabétisation » qui s’emploierait, à l’échelle nationale, à promouvoir l'alphabétisation pour le plus grand bien des nombreuses populations dont des millions de femmes, qui ne savent ni lire ni écrire faute d'avoir eu la chance d'aller à l'école. Plus qu'une proposition, il s'agit d'un devoir qui incombe à chacun de nous.

16.6 Mesdames et Messieurs, je ne saurais terminer sans rendre un hommage appuyé, au nom de la Côte d'Ivoire, à la Directrice générale, Irina Bokova, pour l'excellent travail qu’elle a accompli à la tête de notre Organisation. En ce moment solennel, mon pays voudrait se souvenir des nombreux acquis engrangés sous son mandat. Parmi ceux-ci, nous retiendrons particulièrement la réouverture du Bureau de l’UNESCO à Abidjan ; l'inscription de la ville historique de Grand-Bassam au patrimoine mondial de l'UNESCO ; la création de l'École panafricaine de la paix au sein de la Fondation Félix Houphouët-Boigny à Yamoussoukro ; le Programme global d'appui spécial post-conflit élaboré pour aider à la reconstruction de mon pays qui sortait de la plus grave crise de son histoire ; la mise en œuvre du programme UNESCO-CFIT pour la formation à distance des enseignants ; l'attribution en 2013 du Prix UNESCO-Confucius d’alphabétisation à l'ONG ivoirienne « Savoir

http://en.unesco.org/

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pour mieux vivre » ; sans oublier la visite mémorable que la Directrice générale a effectuée en Côte d'Ivoire la semaine dernière. Merci encore, Madame la Directrice générale. Alors que prend fin votre mandat, mon pays espère que l'UNESCO continuera de préserver et de renforcer les acquis de votre gouvernance.

17.1 Trinidad and Tobago in extenso: Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, distinguished members of the Bureau, Madam Director-General, Members of the Board, we have convened for this 202nd session at a time of mounting international tension and uncertainty, with all the attendant risks. This tension manifests itself in various forms, whether through the real threat of nuclear proliferation and confrontation or through the forced migration of multitudes from their homelands, triggered in so many instances by the refusal of some to accept, respect and value human diversity and human dignity. ln the midst of it all, we must, as an international community with shared values that elevate the dignity and worth of the human person above all else, confront the violent extremism and radicalization that continue to trigger perpetration of acts of terrorism, on a large scale and on a small one. Violence as a means of self-expression, as well as hate, is increasingly an everyday occurrence in our times. Let us recall for example, the recent stabbing of two young American girls in the south of France, apparently, the French authorities have informed us, simply because they were Americans. This is a most alarming situation. We must never regard violence as either acceptable or legitimate lest it become the norm that defines modern society.

17.2 I am convinced that, with all the confrontation, conflict and discord that envelopes us in the world today, if UNESCO did not exist, it would have to be created. As an engine for creating and deepening tolerance, respect, conciliation, dialogue and understanding among peoples, it is a unique organization that brings extraordinary value to the unending search for peace, progress and security by making strategic investments, in both the short and long term, in human and social capital, with decisive incremental results. As we prioritize the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in the work programme of the Organization, no one, I am sure, would question the critical importance of bolstering even further our attention to the issues that impact our youth, especially in so far as they may feel disenfranchised and disconnected from the core values and currents of society. Can we risk abandoning them? And if they are abandoned would opportunists of ill intent not fill the waiting vacuum in order to exploit their vulnerability, with all the consequential risks for their future and the future of their societies?

17.3 These scenarios constitute the very antithesis of the 2030 Agenda, which has the aim of connecting people to values, ideas and principles that inspire and motivate them to become self-empowered, productive and upstanding members of their communities and societies, thus creating strong, resilient, progressive societies in harmony with themselves, with each other and with the planet. Education and lifelong learning really is the key that unlocks the door to social mobility. My own country, Trinidad and Tobago, is a living example of this. ln Trinidad and Tobago it is not unusual for working-class families to transform themselves through education and training to middle-class status in a single generation because at independence our first Prime Minister, who incidentally had great faith in the promise of this Organization, told us “the future of this nation lies in the

school bags of our children”. This upward mobility has been made possible through persistent heavy investment in education and training over the last 53 years as an independent nation. ln fact, Mr Chairperson, the budget for the 2018 financial year has just been presented in the national parliament and the education sector has received the largest proportion of the budget.

17.4 That is why Trinidad and Tobago attaches such high importance to UNESCO's work in the field of education generally and, in that regard, to its unique and inspired leadership in mobilizing and building momentum towards the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4). ln this regard, we give high priority to technical and vocational education and training (TVET) and, while thanking the Director-General and her team for energizing this aspect of the education pillar, we would like to see even greater emphasis and focus on it, so as to create credible alternative pathways to remunerative employment, including self-employment, for students wishing to pursue the varied options available in this area.

17.5 Mindful of the critical role and contribution of science and innovation in wealth creation and development, Trinidad and Tobago urges a renewed focus on science by UNESCO. So many of the challenges that confound our world today have their genesis in science, for example climate change, biodiversity preservation, pandemic diseases, ocean sustainability, the availability of water, etc. An initiative to popularize science in Trinidad and Tobago through a makeshift roving exhibition culminated in the establishment of a permanent National Science Centre approximately two years ago.

17.6 lt is understood that UNESCO is at an important crossroads in its evolution. Sometimes, when one listens to the dialogue, one senses that there exists the perception in some places that reform is an event. Trinidad and Tobago takes an alternative view, namely that, in its best conception, reform is a process. Allow me therefore to remind this house, Mr Chairperson, that UNESCO is currently in the throes of reform and has been for some time, led ably by the Director-General. Let us be judicious and realistic going forward. Yes, we need greater efficiency and deeper impact, yes we must rethink programme content and delivery to cut out waste and duplication, and yes, we must expand and augment our capabilities by strategic partnering with other organizations and entities in the research and scientific community and elsewhere to create and exploit synergies that can strengthen our efforts to achieve real deliverables that change people's lives by empowering them and their societies. But we must be careful, enormously careful, not to throw out the baby with the bathwater.

17.7 Recent catastrophic events have dramatized the risks and indeed the devastating potential of the environment in creating suffering, human misery and premature loss of life. I join others in expressing our solidarity with the governments and peoples of all countries that have been directly impacted by these extreme climatic and environmental events. ln my own region, the Caribbean, the extent of destruction and dislocation has been unimaginable, and given our location and our geographical realities as small island developing States (SIDS) the risk of recurrence or, more aptly, the likelihood of recurrence is extremely high because hurricane systems are cyclical phenomena, occurring in the Atlantic Basin every year. Mr Chairperson, it is no exaggeration to say that the Atlantic hurricane season poses an existential threat to the people and economies of

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the Caribbean and therefore to their sustainable development.

17.8 That is why today we are underscoring the need to amplify UNESCO's work in support of SIDS as a matter of priority. lt simply cannot wait if we are serious about protecting and empowering the vulnerable and marginalized by way of inclusion. When schools are blown away and basic infrastructure such as desks and chairs are not available, there is no capacity for children to carry on their schooling, placing their future and that of their communities at even greater risk. ln this connection, I am proud to share with this house the fact that the Government of Trinidad and Tobago which is already facing severe challenges in meeting the magnitude of need in its education system has offered a sizeable number of children from countries such as Dominica placement in schools in Trinidad and Tobago, particularly for those who are scheduled to take their secondary school examinations over the next two years, and this offer has already been accepted. A more comprehensive SIDS agenda in UNESCO will add substantial value to nationally driven efforts in the Caribbean and SIDS elsewhere to achieve SDG 4 within the larger framework of the 2030 Agenda, to which Trinidad and Tobago and its partners in the Caribbean Community are fully committed.

17.9 Let me end, Mr Chairperson, by expressing to our outgoing Director-General, Ms lrina Bokova, our grateful thanks for her successful stewardship of this unique organization for human development, peace and global security.

18.1 Tchad in extenso : Monsieur le Président de la Conférence générale, Monsieur le Président du Conseil exécutif, Madame la Directrice générale, chers collègues membres du Conseil exécutif, c’est avec un réel plaisir que je prends la parole au nom de la délégation du Tchad à l’occasion de la 202e session du Conseil exécutif de l’UNESCO. Je voudrais, avant tout propos, féliciter le Bureau du Conseil exécutif et le Secrétariat pour la qualité de la préparation et de l’organisation de nos travaux. Notre délégation appuie la déclaration du Président pour le Groupe V(a) dont le Tchad est membre.

18.2 Monsieur le Président, il n’échappe à personne que le contexte international est pollué depuis quelques années par des tensions liées au terrorisme radical qui sévit sur tous les continents et qui constitue une réelle menace pour la paix, la sécurité, le bien-être et la dignité des populations du monde. Aujourd’hui, tous les moyens sont utilisés pour le combattre et l’éradiquer. Mon pays, qui subit les actions de la secte terroriste Boko Haram dans la région du lac Tchad, s’est résolument engagé à lutter contre ce fléau. Monsieur le Président, le terrorisme doit être combattu par la prévention, au moyen de l’éducation et du renforcement des compétences des jeunes pour faciliter leur accès à l’emploi. Comme l’a dit un grand homme d’État suédois, Axel Gustafsson Oxenstierna, « La bonne éducation de la jeunesse est le garant le plus sûr de la prospérité d’un État ».

18.3 Alors que le terrorisme violent ne connait pas de limites, le changement climatique se manifeste par des cyclones de plus en plus violents et catastrophiques qui sèment la désolation dans les zones qu’ils balaient à un rythme de plus en plus soutenu. Nous saisissons cette occasion pour présenter nos condoléances aux populations des États-Unis et des Caraïbes qui viennent d’être terriblement éprouvées par ces catastrophes. En

effet, le changement climatique constitue aujourd’hui une source de préoccupation majeure et la communauté internationale doit se mobiliser pour en inverser la tendance. Les COP-20, 21 et 22 définissent la stratégie d’action à suivre.

18.4 En matière d’éducation, je voudrais souligner que parmi les nombreux projets et réformes en cours dans notre pays, le Plan décennal pour le développement de l’éducation et de l’alphabétisation pour la période 2017-2027 s’inscrit pleinement dans l’esprit de la Déclaration d’Incheon.

18.5 Avant de terminer, je voudrais, comme l’ont fait mes prédécesseurs, rendre hommage à la Directrice générale pour l’action qu’elle a menée pendant huit ans au sein de cette Organisation. Au Tchad, elle a bravé l’insécurité et les intempéries pour se rendre jusqu’au lac Tchad et y rester avec ses sœurs pendant près de trois heures. Je tiens donc à la féliciter et à lui rendre cet hommage, tout comme je rends hommage au Président du Conseil qui va nous quitter et au Président de la Conférence générale pour le travail exemplaire accompli pendant toutes ces longues années.

19.1 Nicaragua in extenso: Señor Presidente del Consejo Ejecutivo, señor Presidente de la Conferencia General, señora Directora General, distinguidos delegados, todas y todos: nuestra delegación se une a la declaración efectuada por la República Dominicana en representación del GRULAC. En nombre del pueblo y el Gobierno de Nicaragua, deseo expresar nuestra solidaridad con todos los hermanos del Gran Caribe afectados por devastadores fenómenos meteorológicos, que son cada día más intensos y frecuentes; con el hermano pueblo y el Gobierno de México por los dos catastróficos terremotos acontecidos; con el pueblo y el Gobierno de los Estados Unidos de América por los huracanes que afectaron los estados de Texas y de la Florida; y con nuestros hermanos centroamericanos por el paso de la tormenta tropical Nate.

19.2 En los albores de la elección de la nueva Dirección General, nos encontramos en un momento clave respecto al compromiso que tenemos todos los Estados Miembros de la Organización de proporcionarle todos los recursos humanos y económicos necesarios para que pueda mantener vigentes sus principios y funciones estatutarias.

19.3 Señor Presidente: Nicaragua celebró un aniversario más de la gran Cruzada Nacional de Alfabetización, que se llevó a cabo luego del triunfo de la Revolución Popular Sandinista y dejó un pueblo con más autonomía y libre de la ignorancia para forjar un futuro próspero. La Cruzada logró reducir el analfabetismo, que pasó del 50% al 13%, y en esa campaña educativa también se alfabetizó en las lenguas nativas del Caribe nicaragüense. El interés por reducir el analfabetismo ha sido una constante desde la Cruzada de 1980, que fue reconocida por la UNESCO como la mayor movilización de jóvenes por la educación. Por ello Nicaragua apoya con entusiasmo el proyecto de decisión que figura en el documento 202 EX/44, a fin de que la alfabetización sea parte integrante del aprendizaje a lo largo de toda la vida y de la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo Sostenible.

19.4 Nicaragua reconoce que los pueblos indígenas siguen estando desproporcionadamente representados entre los segmentos más marginados y empobrecidos de la sociedad. Nicaragua acaba de firmar un acuerdo para

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la creación de la Cátedra UNESCO “Sabidurías nativas de las comunidades autónomas en la costa caribeña de Nicaragua”, cuyo objetivo es la interculturalización de la educación superior, siendo de vital importancia la inclusión de los saberes y conocimientos ancestrales.

19.5 Señor Presidente: desde los años 90, Nicaragua viene experimentando el ecoturismo. Para 2017 nuestro Gobierno, mediante la Estrategia para el Desarrollo del Turismo, persigue la consolidación de un desarrollo turístico sostenible, ético, humano, participativo, incluyente y respetuoso de nuestros valores y costumbres. El turismo sostenible es crucial para el desarrollo, tal como se plasma en la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo Sostenible, por lo que suscribimos el proyecto de decisión contenido en el documento 202 EX/45, relativo a la “Afirmación de la función de la UNESCO en el turismo sostenible para el desarrollo”. Nicaragua es el primer país que ha suscrito la “Declaración del Bien Común de la Tierra y de la Humanidad”, con el objetivo y el compromiso de legar a las futuras generaciones de nicaragüenses un medio ambiente saludable que permita el desarrollo humano. El turismo sostenible, que es una realidad en Nicaragua, tiene como premisa no comprometer los recursos de las generaciones futuras, buscando el equilibrio entre medio ambiente, cultura y economía para fortalecer la calidad de vida de nuestro pueblo.

19.6 Para concluir, me gustaría compartir las reflexiones de nuestro Presidente Comandante Daniel Ortega, y cito: “Debemos asumir el compromiso de seguir luchando por la paz, que es la prioridad que tiene el mundo, que tienen nuestros pueblos, y de que los conflictos que se presentan en diferentes regiones de nuestro planeta se puedan ir superando a través del diálogo, a través de la negociación y, sobre todo, libres del uso o de la amenaza del uso de la fuerza, que es lo que más anhelan nuestros pueblos, desde los pueblos de las grandes potencias hasta los pueblos pequeños en población, pequeños en desarrollo pero grandes en sus valores y en su historia”. Muchas gracias.

(19.1) Nicaragua in extenso (translated from the Spanish):

Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Mr President of the General Conference, Madam Director-General, distinguished representatives, ladies and gentlemen: our delegation supports the statement made by the Dominican Republic on behalf of the Latin America and Caribbean Group (GRULAC). In the name of the people and Government of Nicaragua, I wish to express our solidarity with all our brothers and sisters of the greater Caribbean region affected by devastating meteorological phenomena, which are more intense and more frequent every day; with our brothers and sisters in Mexico and the Government of Mexico in the wake of the two catastrophic earthquakes that occurred; with the people and Government of the United States of America following the hurricanes that affected the States of Texas and Florida; and with our Central American brothers and sisters due to the path taken by the tropical storm, Nate.

(19.2) The dawning nomination of the new Director-General is a key moment for us to commit, as Member States of this Organization, to offering him or her all the human and economic resources necessary to safeguard UNESCO’s existing principles and statutory functions.

(19.3) Mr Chairperson: Nicaragua celebrated another anniversary of its National Literacy Crusade (CNA), which was launched after the triumph of the Sandinista Revolution and left an entire population more autonomous and free from ignorance so that it could forge a prosperous future. With the Crusade, illiteracy decreased, dropping from 50% to 13%. The educational campaign also promoted literacy in the native languages of the Nicaraguan Caribbean. The desire to reduce illiteracy has been a constant since the Crusade was launched in 1980. It was recognized by UNESCO as the greatest mobilization of youth for education. For that reason, Nicaragua enthusiastically supports the draft decision contained in document 202 EX/44, to make literacy an integral part of lifelong learning and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

(19.4) Nicaragua acknowledges that indigenous peoples are still disproportionately represented in the most marginal and impoverished segments of its society. It has just signed an agreement for the creation of the UNESCO Chair “Indigenous knowledge of the autonomous communities living along Nicaragua’s Caribbean Coast”, aimed at promoting the interculturalization of higher education. The inclusion of ancestral knowledge is of vital importance.

(19.5) Mr Chairperson, since the 1990s, Nicaragua has experimented with eco-tourism. In 2017, through the Tourism Development Strategy, our Government has continued to consolidate sustainable, ethical, human, participatory, inclusive touristic development that is respectful of our values and customs. Sustainable tourism is crucial for development, as stated in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. That is why we support the draft decision contained in document 202 EX/45 pertaining to “Affirming UNESCO’s role in sustainable tourism for development”. Nicaragua was the first country to sign the “Declaration for the Common Good of the Earth and Humanity”, with the aim and commitment of bequeathing to the future generations of Nicaraguans a healthy environment conducive to human development. Sustainable tourism, which is a reality in Nicaragua, is based on safeguarding the resources of future generations and seeking the balance between environment, culture and economy to enhance our population’s quality of life.

(19.6) To conclude, I would like to share with you the thoughts of our President and Commander Daniel Ortega: “We must take on the commitment to keep fighting for peace, which is the world’s priority and that of our populations, so that the conflicts arising in the different regions of our planet may be overcome through dialogue and negotiation, and these regions may be free from the use of force or its threat. Such freedom is the greatest desire of our populations, from those with great powers to those that are small in number and development, but great in values and history.” Thank you very much.

20.1 Ghana in extenso: Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Mr President of the General Conference, Madam Director-General of UNESCO, distinguished Members of the Executive Board, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, it gives me much pleasure to have this opportunity to address the 202nd session of the UNESCO Executive

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Board. Allow me, Mr Chairperson to convey warm felicitations from Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana, to you and the other distinguished Members of the Board.

20.2 Ghana notes with satisfaction efforts by UNESCO to ensure that Member States are well positioned to respond effectively to our collective resolve under Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4). The roll-out of activities to enhance learning opportunities, particularly for refugees and internally displaced persons, is commendable. This year's Mobile Learning Week, for example, created a platform which highlighted innovative technology-driven approaches strengthening inclusiveness in education as well as preserving continuity of learning opportunities.

20.3 In our bid to better the lives of young Ghanaians with a view to building a solid human resource base for socioeconomic transformation, the Government of President Akufo-Addo has given full effect to SDG 4.1 with the implementation of a free senior high school policy this academic year. The programme, based on the four pillars of learning, targets the removal of cost barriers, the expansion of infrastructure, improvement in quality and equity as well as the acquisition of employable skills for development. The Government has absorbed all fees and charges for all students entering senior high school, including technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions at that level, for this academic year, covering the cost of textbooks, school uniforms and meals. In effect, all that parents have to do is to send their children to school. It is worth mentioning that with this measure we have increased the number of children accessing senior secondary education this year to about 94% as compared to about 65% previously. The Government is committed to removing all barriers to accessing secondary education and we look forward to sharing our experiences in this area with other Member States.

20.4 Turning now to the natural sciences, Ghana is concerned about the financial challenges facing the basic-science and engineering sectors in building capacity for science education in Member States. The effect, undoubtedly, on UNESCO's work in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and inquiry-based science and technology education, particularly in developing countries, is enormous. While we note the work of the Internal Oversight Service (IOS) and its recommendations, Ghana would like to see, rather, a more strengthened and repackaged UNESCO basic science programme which addresses the needs of Member States, particularly in Africa. In this respect, Mr Chairperson, Ghana has the pleasure of requesting UNESCO to grant category 2 status to the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences - Ghana (AIMS Ghana) – a globally recognized pan-African centre of excellence in postgraduate education, research and outreach – to train Africa's young talents in STEM fields. Ghana as recent chairperson of AfriMAB further seeks your support to create a sustainable funding mechanism – AfriBiofund – which will promote transparency, equity and gender equality to meet the logistical and development functions of biosphere reserves in Africa.

20.5 To conclude, Mr Chairperson, this session of the Board is extremely important for our Organization. We are preparing for the 39th session of the General Conference to approve a new programme and budget as well as endorse a candidate as Director-General for the approval

of the General Conference. As we decide the future of UNESCO, let us remember the challenges our Organization has had to grapple with in recent years. We need a more united and strengthened Organization. We need a rekindling of the vision of our founding fathers to promote dialogue among civilizations, cultures and peoples, based upon respect for our commonly shared values, the building of peace, international understanding, eradication of poverty and sustainable development. It is in this light that Ghana is pleased to host the UNESCO World Press Freedom Day in Accra in May 2018.

21.1 Pakistan in extenso: Mr Chairperson, Madam Director-General, Mr President of the General Conference, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, let me begin by first expressing our appreciation and gratitude to the outgoing Director-General Ms Irina Bokova for her effective and able stewardship of the work of UNESCO over the last eight years. She will be remembered for her grace and openness and for steering the Organization through turbulent waters, while confronted with some new and grave challenges. UNESCO’s ship is still in stormy waters with strong winds blowing, yet we look towards the future with hope and optimism that we may reach safer shores. We would also like to compliment the outgoing Chairperson of the Executive Board, Ambassador Michael Worbs, for his positive and efficient conduct of the Executive Board’s meetings and for his personal efforts to make the work of the Executive Board more practical and productive.

21.2 Excellencies, we cannot deny the established fact that UNESCO, which emerged from the ashes of the Second World War, has been greatly successful in healing the wounds of the war through intellectual discourse and advocacy of soft power, thus bridging the distances between nations. Despite challenges, UNESCO has achieved many milestones in the fields of education, culture, science and communication. Conventions on world heritage and intangible cultural heritage, adoption of the Education 2030 agenda, establishment of category 2 centres, drafting of ethical principles for climate change, and focus on preserving culture heritage in areas of armed conflict, are some key achievements of our Organization.

21.3 Therefore, we fully agree with you, Madam Director-General, when you said yesterday that our world today might have changed in many ways, but the idea which gave birth to UNESCO still inspires us. However, it is so unfortunate that UNESCO, which has provided the ideal pathway to dialogue and reconciliation, as you mentioned yesterday, has fallen prey to a self-woven cobweb of our own difficulties and disputes. Certain political issues are leading us more and more towards confrontation and away from the point where our interests converge and our objectives become common. A wise man said that whenever history repeats itself, there is a price to pay. We do hope that together we can avoid that path and work to strengthen UNESCO through our collective efforts.

21.4 Mr Chairperson, it is a momentous occasion for the Organization as it elects a new Director-General. We hope that the new Director-General would be a harbinger of glad tidings, a person who could chart a new journey for all of us. We do also hope that the new Director-General, with the full support of UNESCO’s Member States, would carry on the good work of his or her predecessors, assess our current challenges, initiate bold reforms and prepare us for the future ahead. Pakistan’s commitment to

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UNESCO’s mission of creating a just, peaceful and inclusive world order remains unwavering. As always, Pakistan will continue to work hand in hand with the global community to make the world a better and safer place for our future generations.

النص الكامل:(نائبة الرئيس عن اجملموعة اخلامسة (ب)) المغرب ١-٢٢السيدة املديرة العامة، السيد رئيس التنفيذي، سرئيس اجملل سيدال

لس رئيس اجمل نائبة املؤمتر العام، السيدات والسادة السفراء واملندوبني، بصفيتكلمة براتكم التنفيذي عن جمموعة الدول العربية، يشرفين أن أتوجه إىل حض

اص اب اخلة اخلطنيابة عن جمموعة الدول العربية، إذ إنين قررت أن أبعث كتابالوقت ازل عنباملغرب إىل رئيس اجمللس التنفيذي، وذلك حىت يتسىن يل التن

ال إن أعمفاملخصص للمغرب لفائدة جمموعة الدول العربية. وكما تعلمون، خاصة كل الغة و بهذه الدورة تتميز جبدول أعمال حافل مبواد وبنود ذات أمهية

.٥م/٣٩ما يتعلق مبشروع برنامج وميزانية املنظمة

، إن )٥م/٣٩ففيما يتعلق مبشروع الربنامج وامليزانية (الوثيقة ٢-٢٢لتوصل إىل ان أجل جمموعة الدول العربية تثين على اجلهود احلثيثة اليت بذلت م

مبشروع تنيملتعلقاتوافق الدول األعضاء بشأن امليزانية. وفيما خيص املسألتني استعراض ث (جيم) بشأناجلزء الثال ٥م ت/٢٠٢القرار الوارد يف الوثيقة

م ٢٠٢ثيقة سياسة اسرتداد التكاليف، وكذلك مشروع القرار الوارد يف الو ألساسية العلوم اجلزء الثاين معدلة بشأن تقييم بناء القدرات يف جمال ا ٥ت/

ا بعض ة لديهواهلندسة، فإن بعض الدول املنتمية إىل جمموعة الدول العربي ية.اإلدار عنه أمام اللجنة املالية و التحفظات خبصوصهما وهو ما سيعرب

السيدات والسادة، إن جمموعة الدول العربية لدى اليونسكو تؤكد ٣-٢٢ت جماال جمددا متسكها بالدفاع عن حقوق شعب دولة فلسطني احملتلة يفت ما زالاختصاص اليونسكو. وتؤكد أيضا أن القضية الفلسطينية كانت و

هور رغم تدجعيات للعامل العريب بأسره. و وستبقى مركزية ومن ثوابت املر إن تلة، فاألوضاع املستمر يف جماالت اختصاص اليونسكو يف فلسطني احمل

أجيل تنفيذي جمموعة الدول العربية مل تعرتض على اقرتاح رئيس اجمللس الت واالكتفاء حملتلةالنقاش بشأن املواضيع املتعلقة بفلسطني واألراضي العربية ا

ملواضيع فلة باوذلك لتسهيل أعمال اجمللس يف هذه الدورة احلا بالتذكري هباىل تأكيد يضا إأاملصريية واحلساسة بالنسبة إىل املنظمة. وهتدف هذه اخلطوة

لب طبيق املطاإىل ت الروح اإلجيابية جملموعة الدول العربية، آملني بذلك التوصلالعربية راضيني واألالواردة يف القرارات املتعلقة بالقدس بشكل خاص وبفلسط

احملتلة بشكل عام.

أما فيما خيص موضوع الثقافة والرتاث الثقايف، فإن جمموعة الدول ٤-٢٢ة اقع األثريواملو العربية تطلب من أعضاء اجمللس التنفيذي دعم الرتاث الثقايف

ليت ملدن اتية لتلك اة التحللمدن احملررة بالعراق وإعادة بناء املواقع األثرية والبنيبناء و شامل دمرت آثارها ومكتباهتا وجامعاهتا، وهي مدن حباجة إىل إعمار

ن عمان نسكو مقدرات يف جماالت التعليم والثقافة. كما نرجو نقل مكتب اليو ملوحد. العراق إىل بغداد بكامل طاقمه وخاصة بعد حترير مجيع املناطق ضمن ا

اطق املنتح املدارس يفونرجو كذلك دعم عملية إعادة املهجرين وإعادة فيذي عن لس التنفئيس اجملاحملررة. وال يفوتين أخريا مبناسبة انتهاء مهميت كنائبة ر

لس ئيس اجملجمموعة الدول العربية أن أشكر جزيل الشكر الدول األعضاء ور ة وشكرا.الدور التنفيذي وأعضاء األمانة وأمتىن التوفيق لنا مجيعا يف هذه

(22.1) Ms Alaoui (Morocco) (Vice-Chair for Group V (b)) in extenso (translation from the Arabic):

Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board,

Madam Director-General, Mr President of the General Conference, ladies and gentlemen, Your Excellencies Ambassadors and delegates, in my capacity as Vice-Chairperson for the Arab States group, I have the honour to deliver a statement on behalf of the Arab States group. I have decided to send a written copy of the Moroccan statement to the Chairperson of the Executive Board so that I could use the time allocated to Morocco for the statement by the Arab States group. As you know, the agenda of this session is full of extremely important items, especially those relating to the Draft Programme and Budget, document 39 C/5.

(22.2) With regard to the Draft Programme and Budget (39 C/5), the Arab States group commends the great efforts exerted to arrive at consensus among the Member States on the budget. As concerns two points relating to the draft decision contained in document 202 EX/5 Part III (G) on “Review of Cost Recovery Policy” and the draft decision contained in document 202 EX/5 Part II Rev. on “Evaluation of Capacity Building in Basic Sciences and Engineering”, some of the countries of the Arab States group have some reservations concerning those two points, which will be put forward in Finance and Administrative Commission (FA).

(22.3) Ladies and gentlemen, the Arab States group at UNESCO wishes to reiterate, once again, its commitment to the defence of the rights of the people of occupied Palestine in the fields of competence of UNESCO. It also stresses that the Palestinian cause has been and remains a constant reference for the Arab world as a whole. Despite the ongoing deterioration in conditions in UNESCO’s fields of competence in occupied Palestine, the Arab States group did not object to the proposal of the Chairperson of the Executive Board to postpone discussion of matters relating to Palestine and the occupied Arab territories, and merely to make mention thereof in order to facilitate the work of the Board at this session which is so full of weighty and sensitive issues for the Organization. This step was also aimed at stressing the positive spirit of the Arab States group in the hope that that would make it possible to ensure implementation of the matters contained in the pending decisions on Jerusalem in particular, and Palestine and the occupied Arab territories in general.

(22.4) With regard to culture and the cultural heritage, the Arab States group urges the Members of the Executive Board to support the cultural heritage and archaeological sites of liberated towns in Iraq and to rebuild the sites and related infrastructure of those towns, whose artefacts, libraries and universities have been destroyed. These towns are in need of complete rehabilitation and capacity building in the fields of education and culture. We also request that the UNESCO office be transferred from Amman to Baghdad, with its full team, especially once all areas of unified Iraq have been liberated. We also request support for the return of displaced persons and the reopening of schools in the liberated zones. Finally, as my term of office as Vice-Chairperson for the Arab States group comes to an end, I am bound to offer sincere thanks to the Member States and the Chairperson of the Executive Board and to members of the Secretariat, wishing us all every success at this session. Thank you.

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23.1 South Africa in extenso: Mr President of the General Conference, Comrade Simataa, Madam Director-General, Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, distinguished delegates, let me start by expressing my country’s condolences to and solidarity with all those sister countries affected by national disasters in the recent past.

23.2 Mr Chairperson, my delegation expresses its gratitude to the Director-General for the information that she provided yesterday, as well as to the Secretariat, on whom a lot of pressure is brought to bear given the many demands of Member States, including new initiatives, in spite of the financial constraints that UNESCO continues to face.

23.3 The Executive Board is on the cusp of a momentous period in its history, when it can choose to reorient UNESCO in a direction that takes it to a new level of effectiveness through the decisions that we will be making during this session, in particular, decisions pertaining to the election of the new Director-General and the draft programme and budget. In this regard, my delegation has always held the view that if we are united in our vision for the Organization, we will be able to find solutions together in the common interest of humanity. It is therefore our responsibility to elect a Director-General who is a visionary, who will be guided by principles of ethical leadership and who will mediate differences among Member States so that UNESCO becomes depoliticized - a Director-General who will also raise UNESCO’s profile globally and take it to the next level of efficiency and effectiveness, especially as we enter the fourth industrial revolution, in which robotics have a potential negative impact on the labour market. UNESCO should play a major role in leading and finding solutions to this potential threat.

23.4 In terms of the budget, my delegation will continue its constructive role in an attempt to find an amicable solution to the difficult task of reaching agreement on document 39 C/5. South Africa always pays its annual assessed contributions on time, in full and without any conditions to ensure that UNESCO continues to implement its programmes, including those aimed at capacity building. We call upon other Member States to demonstrate their commitment to UNESCO by doing the same.

23.5 South Africa has benefited from its close collaboration with UNESCO in many areas including the recognition of a young female South African scientist, Dr Stephanie Fanucchi, for her outstanding contribution to science in the 2017 International Rising Talents awards of the L’Oréal-UNESCO “For Women in Science” programme. Additionally, the Garden Route, which is well-known for its scenic beauty, was designated a biosphere reserve this year and added to the World Network of Biosphere Reserves. The Khomani Cultural Landscape was also inscribed in the World Heritage List during the 41st session of the World Heritage Committee.

23.6 South Africa, as chair and representative of the Africa Group on the Bureau of the Intergovernmental Committee for Physical Education and Sport (CIGEPS), participated in the Sixth International Conference of Ministers and Senior Officials Responsible for Physical Education and Sport (MINEPS) in Kazan in the Russian Federation, which adopted the Kazan Action Plan (KAP). This was followed by a meeting of a core group here at UNESCO. The Kazan Action Plan will be the main focus in

contributing to achievement of the sustainable development goals through physical education.

23.7 South Africa hosted a successful launch of the 2017 World Water Development Report in Durban, again a sign of our commitment to this Organization. My delegation also wishes to recognize and thank those who continue to support the African World Heritage Fund (AWHF), a category 2 centre hosted in South Africa, which contributes to capacity building and supports upstream processes in terms of world heritage on our continent. In this regard we would like to note that the UNESCO-Equatorial Guinea International Prize for Research in the Life Sciences will be awarded on the occasion of the AWHF Board meeting scheduled to be held in Equatorial Guinea in December.

23.8 Regarding how we organize, prepare and manage our work to make the work of the Executive Board much lighter and more efficient and cost-effective, whatever mechanism we find should meet the principles of inclusivity, efficient preparation and cost-effectiveness.

23.9 My delegation would like to state that it supports the respect, promotion and protection of all human rights. This includes indigenous peoples, hence we are a signatory to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. We do not, however, support the use of human rights as a conditionality for development assistance. It is for this reason that the UNESCO policy on engaging with indigenous peoples is of concern to my delegation, as it is not clear how UNESCO intends to apply the policy in practice.

23.10 We support the proposal of the Russian Federation that the United Nations proclaim 2019 as international year of the periodic table of chemical elements, an initiative that we have co-sponsored.

23.11 Our delegation would like to recall the importance of capacity building, including in the field offices, for implementation of the flagship programmes of the Operational Strategy for Priority Africa 2014-2021, so that they have impact where it matters the most.

23.12 Finally, Mr Chairperson, we look forward to the commemoration with UNESCO of the 100th anniversary of the birth of our late former president, Nelson Mandela. In his words, it is now in our hands to make a difference, through our contribution to humanity.

24.1 Mozambique in extenso: Excellencies, Mr President of the General Conference, Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General of UNESCO, ladies and gentlemen, allow me at the outset to join the other speakers in commending Ms Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO, for her able leadership and the excellent work she has done during her eight years in the service of our Organization.

24.2 For Mozambique, UNESCO is an indispensable partner in its areas of competence, complementing our efforts at national level within the framework of the five-year economic and social programme being implemented in the country. UNESCO’s participation, together with other development partners in the field of education, has allowed us to move fast in the updating and modernization of our education system.

24.3 The Capacity Development for Education programme (CapEd) is a vivid example of UNESCO’s commitment to assisting and reinforcing the capacity of

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Member States to undertake evidence-based national education reforms. We acknowledge here the support that UNESCO has given to African countries over the last four years to develop their education systems, especially in reviewing their education policies in order to integrate the lifelong learning perspective.

24.4 Our efforts to address cross-cutting issues in our education system aim at ensuring that we can gradually lay the necessary solid foundations nationwide in order to tackle the needs of the ever-increasing number of students across the whole spectrum of education, especially in rural areas where we continue to experience a great need for quality education. We welcome the fact that the UNESCO Regional Office for Southern Africa, in coordination with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) , has organized regional meetings to produce a Regional Framework on Teachers’ Standards and Competencies and a plan of action, which, in our view, will undoubtedly benefit the countries in the region, including my own. The Government of Mozambique has set up a National Authority for Professional Education under the supervision of the Prime Minister with the aim of ensuring better technical and scientific training.

24.5 Mozambique remains committed to implementing gender mainstreaming programmes such as Better Education for Africa’s Rise (BEAR), capacity building for Education for All (Cap-EFA) and technical and vocational education and training (TVET), among others. We reiterate our considered hope that the effective implementation of the Operational Strategy for Priority Africa 2014-2021 as well as the 39 C/5 programme will soundly contribute to the ongoing efforts for sustainable development.

24.6 Mozambique gives particular attention to the impact that natural disasters have on children, youth and the education system. In this regard, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development recognizes the need to upgrade education facilities in order to provide safe and effective learning environments as part of Sustainable Development Goal 4. Under the UNESCO-VISUS programme, Mozambique is engaged in building a culture of safety and resilience at all levels of society through the safe school facilities project .

24.7 The culture sector is moving fast in promotion of the diversity of cultural expressions, the intangible cultural heritage and cultural industries. I have the singular honour to announce here that the historical Island of Mozambique, or to use its real name, Ilha de Moçambique, will be celebrating 200 years of existence as an entity in September next year. Ilha de Moçambique was the first capital of the territory known today as Mozambique. Because of its historical importance, Ilha de Moçambique was declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1991. Preparations are already underway to celebrate the bicentenary of this historical heritage, and UNESCO and other stakeholders are welcome to join.

25.1 United States in extenso: Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General, Mr President of the General Conference and fellow Member State representatives, let me begin by thanking those who shared their condolences following the recent horrific shootings in Las Vegas, a grim reminder of why we must continue working to construct peace in the minds of men and women. Likewise, we appreciate the support shown in the wake of the nearly unimaginable hurricane damage to Puerto Rico, parts of the continental

United States, and across the Caribbean.

25.2 Before this week is over, we anticipate knowing who will be our Director-General nominee, to be confirmed, of course, by the General Conference. The next Director-General will have a huge challenge, with difficult choices to make – on programme priorities, senior staff selections and how to ensure this agency remains fit for purpose in education, science, culture and freedom of expression.

25.3 The United Nations Secretary-General is embarked upon a mission to reform the United Nations, a goal we strongly support, and one that should deeply impact UNESCO. In light of that effort, the next Director-General will be judged on his or her ability to meet twenty-first century challenges effectively, creatively, with a high standard of transparency and accountability. Working with Member States to find common ground and positive contributions to real-world problems will be the measuring stick of his or her success, including avoiding political crises UNESCO was not meant to resolve and which damage its credibility and image.

25.4 Whoever is chosen to lead this Organization, it is self-evident that UNESCO must continue to lead on preventing violent extremism via education, on literacy and educating women and girls, on protecting and preserving the world’s heritage, on science for development, and on free speech and journalist safety.

25.5 UNESCO is diligently working to support the United Nations Plan of Action on Preventing Violent Extremism (PVE), and its intersectoral approach should set the standard for similar cross-cutting issues. It now must focus on impacts and results of this crucial work. We urge UNESCO to support country implementation of its voluntary PVE policy guidance, as well as training based on its PVE teacher resource guide, and digital literacy teaching tools to build resilience to online radicalization efforts.

25.6 UNESCO has to do more to support the United Nations Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity; we are seeing the numbers of journalists harassed, killed and falsely imprisoned continue to grow. And UNESCO should continue working to reverse the disturbing trend we see of governments closing websites and denying access to the Internet on purely political grounds. We implore the next Director-General: do not turn your back on journalist safety, or on the issue of censorship and violations and abuses of freedom of expression, including the media.

25.7 We are proud of what the TeachHer public-private partnership has accomplished in Africa and Latin America to train the educators of young girls to bring them into the world of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) education and careers. Our pilot programme has now benefited educators, policymakers and young women of 18 countries and is ready to achieve more with your help and that of UNESCO staff and institutes. We warmly thank Kenya and Panama for hosting and organizing regional training this year, and Senegal and Japan, which have volunteered to take this work forward in partnership with UNESCO in Africa next year.

25.8 In science, the United States will continue to play a leading role with the institutions and committees associated with UNESCO, on issues ranging from tsunami

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early warning systems to international hydrological programs. Now, more than ever, the next Director-General should look for ways to reward those institutes that succeed and guarantee the functional autonomy needed for them to effectively fulfil their mandate.

25.9 And of course, in the area of culture – arguably UNESCO’s greatest “brand” – the next Director-General will need to celebrate culture in all its diversity and at the same time be the voice of concern about pillage and destruction of our universal heritage. Seeing the destruction in Iraq, Syrian Arab Republic, Mali and elsewhere of the world’s ancient and historic sites reminds us all of the critical role UNESCO can and must continue to play in mitigating threats to and trafficking of our shared heritage.

25.10 At the same time, UNESCO should continue to invest in outreach, particularly through social media, so that more will know and hear about its University Chairs, Creative Cities Network, Associated Schools (ASPnet), Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) and much more. The world should learn of the full range of valuable activities under way at UNESCO.

25.11 In closing, we would like to express our appreciation for the dedication with which the Director-General, Irina Bokova, has led this Organization during the past eight years. She has faced many political and management challenges that neither she nor we Member States would have imagined when she assumed office. As she prepares to depart, we are grateful for her hard work, her commitment to the goals of this Organization and her consistent support to Member States.

25.12 To the next Director-General, we emphasize our support for the goals and objectives of this organization and wish you success as you face the many challenges ahead. We continue to have faith in the purpose and capacity of this Organization, in its ability to live up to its promise as a premier institution and in the commitment of its Secretariat and staff. Looking to the future, reform, a renewed focus on transparency and accountability and a recommitment to the original goals of the Organization are essential. All of us owe the founders of this Organization and the citizens of the world our best efforts to ensure that UNESCO will carry out its core mission and mandate in the most effective way possible.

26.1 Iran (Islamic Republic of) in extenso: Mr President of the General Conference, Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General, dear colleagues, I would like to thank our Chairperson, Michael Worbs, for his comprehensive work during his term of office. Also I would like to thank the Director-General, who has led this House in very difficult circumstances from various angles. Furthermore, I extend my sympathy and condolences to all those affected by the recent natural disasters.

26.2 Dear colleagues, why is UNESCO unique and innovative? Bringing together all States in a regular, structured and continuous manner not for political or economic deals but rather for departing from “otherness” to arrive at mutual understanding. The novelty is that UNESCO was founded to ensure that all countries worked for peace. This is its conceptual raison d’être, while its historical one is its universality. Compared to the realpolitik of today, to me the very creation of such an organization appears a miracle. If it had not been safely born in 1945, there would have been many issuing fatwas for its abortion.

26.3 While UNESCO is intergovernmental in nature and engaged in important normative action in drawing up legal instruments, at heart it is in fact philosophical. This is not to say that it produces philosophy; it is rather the outcome of philosophical minds and furthermore essentially strives to make its ideals and concepts concrete by putting them into practice across the world. Therefore this does not mean that we abandon involvement in practical field work; rather, we should fulfil to the maximum our essential professional orientation in the realm of ideas, principles and values.

26.4 I know that politics is part and parcel of an intergovernmental organization, but politics is different from politicization, which means injecting politics into a subject matter which is not political by nature. This will culminate in a malaise. To cure it, we have to genuinely reaffirm our allegiance to UNESCO’s founders. They wished to introduce a genuine politics of the mind – not the politics of power – in a clear universal form which was not supposed to represent the special interests or ideology of any particular group. Such self-reflection is essential if we want to move towards a politics of the mind.

26.5 Let me make myself clearer through some examples. The concept of common heritage and its “universal value” enshrined in the 1972 World Heritage Convention was very innovative in the field of international law and an intellectual achievement enhancing a sense of attachment to other nations. However, do we educate our children to look at heritage from this perspective, or do we mainly want to exploit it for tourism? (Not even cultural tourism but rather considering it from its economic aspects.) This distortion of the main intellectual goal is unfortunately occurring in the case of some other very valuable intellectual fruits of UNESCO, such as intangible cultural heritage, the Memory of the World Programme, etc. They were supposed to be a practice of intellectual and moral solidarity, not otherwise.

26.6 Reorienting our reforms in accordance with the founders’ ideas does not mean that we shall not update and develop their application. While UNESCO’s central vision remains unchanged, the meanings the terms embody are subject to alteration over the course of time. For example, at the time of UNESCO’s establishment, “culture” was primarily used to refer to artistic production in the arts and letters within the context of the State, while now it has a far wider meaning in terms of creativity, identity and development. This is the case of education, for which Sustainable Development Goal 4 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, being built upon by UNESCO, is a very good example.

26.7 UNESCO reflects the ancient and venerable conception of the interlinkage of knowledge and ethics, contrary to the common notion that knowledge and science are in fact to be understood as standing separately from values and morality. Thus, when they are so interlinked, progress in the fields of knowledge should also be reflected in similar ethical progress.

26.8 It is interesting to note that in 1922 UNESCO’s predecessor, the International Committee on Intellectual Cooperation (later the International Institute of Intellectual Cooperation), was founded as an advisory body for the League of Nations. It brought together such illustrious members as Albert Einstein, Marie Curie and its president, the philosopher Henri Bergson. In 1946, following the Second World War, it was incorporated into UNESCO, which inherited its archives. UNESCO’s first activities in

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the field of philosophy were organized by Jacques Havet, with a focus on bringing about greater familiarization of East and West through mutual understanding.

Mr Worbs resumed the Chair.

27. The Chairperson invited observers of Member States and of non-Member States, and observers of intergovernmental or international non-governmental organizations to address the Board under the provisions of Rule 30 of its Rules of Procedure.

28.1 República Bolivariana de Venezuela in extenso: Señor Presidente del Consejo Ejecutivo, señora Directora General, señores delegados permanentes: en nombre del Gobierno de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela, reciban un saludo de amistad y cordialidad, especialmente aquellos pueblos y gobiernos afectados por desastres naturales y dolorosos hechos de violencia.

28.2 Corno ya es conocido, Venezuela aspira a formar parte del Consejo Ejecutivo en el periodo 2017-2021, a fin de promover, junto al nuevo Director o Directora General, una gobernanza anclada en los principios fundacionales de esta casa y en la gestión eficaz y transparente de sus recursos, programas y convenciones. Los desafíos de la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo Sostenible constituyen una oportunidad histórica para reposicionar el liderazgo de la UNESCO y detener el peligroso camino hacia su desaparición. Los cinco sectores de la UNESCO no pueden seguir sometidos a un chantaje financiero que ha incrementado la politización y el disenso para borrar su visibilidad, credibilidad y trascendencia internacional.

28.3 Venezuela, que también afronta un bloqueo económico ilegal por parte del principal deudor de la Organización, no renunciará jamás a su soberanía, autodeterminación e independencia, convencida de que el diálogo es un instrumento fundamental para vencer toda clase de hegemonías y consolidar la paz y la justicia.

28.4 A pesar de la grave crisis presupuestaria, abogamos por que el 39 C/5 garantice la cooperación de la UNESCO sobre el terreno, centrada especialmente en África, los PEID y los PMA, mejorando las capacidades de la Secretaria y el equilibrio geográfico.

28.5 Estimados colegas: Venezuela reafirma su más firme compromiso en favor de la revitalización de la UNESCO como laboratorio de ideas y foro intergubernamental para la concertación y el dialogo político. Desde el Consejo Ejecutivo, nuestra diplomacia de paz favorecerá ante todo la visión humanista e intelectual de la Constitución de la UNESCO y la primacía del derecho internacional. Muchas gracias.

(28.1) Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in extenso (translated from the Spanish): Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General, Excellencies, and especially the populations and governments affected by natural disasters and distressing acts of violence: please accept the cordial greetings of the Government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

(28.2) As you already know, Venezuela aspires to becoming a Member of the Executive Board from 2017 to 2021 so as to promote, together with the new Director-General, a governance rooted in the founding principles of this House and in the efficient and transparent management of its resources, programmes and conventions. The challenges we

face in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development offer us the historic opportunity to reaffirm UNESCO’s leadership and prevent it from slipping down the dangerous slope to disappearance. UNESCO’s five programme sectors cannot continue to be subjected to financial blackmail that has heightened politicization and discord to such an extent it has shrouded the Organization’s visibility, credibility and global impact.

(28.3) Venezuela, which also faces an illegal economic embargo imposed by this Organization’s main debtor, will never relinquish its sovereignty, self-determination or independence, as it is convinced that dialogue is an essential tool to vanquish all kinds of dominance and consolidate peace and justice.

(28.4) Despite the serious budget crisis, we are advocating for document 39 C/5 to safeguard UNESCO’s cooperation in the field, especially in Africa, small island developing States (SIDS) and least developed countries (LDCs), thus improving the Secretariat’s capacity and geographical balance.

(28.5) Dear colleagues, Venezuela reaffirms its strong commitment to UNESCO’s revitalization as a laboratory for ideas and an intergovernmental forum for coordination and political dialogue. From the Executive Board, our peaceful diplomacy will give special priority to the humanistic and intellectual vision of UNESCO’s Constitution and the supremacy of international law. Thank you very much.

29.1 Myanmar in extenso: Mr Chairperson, my delegation has requested the floor to exercise our right of reply to the statement made by the distinguished representative of Bangladesh with regard to the displaced people in Bangladesh.

29.2 Mr Chairperson, it is extremely important to underline that the recent round of violence was carried out by the so-called Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) extremist terrorist group on 30 police outposts in Northern Rakhine State in the early hours of 25 August 2017. The terrorist attacks were aimed at undermining government efforts to find a lasting solution in Rakhine State, since the series of terrorist attacks took place just after the release of the final report of the Advisory Commission on Rakhine State headed by the former United Nations Secretary-General, Dr Kofi Annan. The highest Islamic organization in Myanmar, namely the All Myanmar Islamic Religious Organization, has also condemned the terrorist attacks in Rakhine State and has pledged collaboration with the government to help to restore peace.

29.3 The latest round of violence poses a serious security risk for Myanmar. In light of these terrorist attacks, the security forces carried out area clearance operations with maximum restraint to avoid any collateral damage. I also wish to take this opportunity to inform you that there have been no armed clashes since 5 September 2017 and no clearance operations. The recent violent attacks show that the terrorists are not only targeting security personnel but also killing the innocent civilian population. Many people in the affected area, mostly women and children, have been forced to flee owing to the fear of brutal violence from the ARSA terrorist group. The men have been forced to join ARSA in fighting the security forces and many villages have been intimidated into fleeing to the Bangladesh side to attract international attention.

29.4 Mr Chairperson, there has been a growing clamour for repatriation of refugees who have fled from

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Myanmar to Bangladesh. Myanmar is prepared to start the verification process at any time. Our two neighbours have had experience of such a process in 1993. The new government in Myanmar inherited a challenging situation in Rakhine State and has had to deal with the consequences of actions by other actors.

30.1 Cuba in extenso: Señora Directora General, señor Presidente de la Conferencia General, señor Presidente, colegas: agradecemos las muestras de solidaridad recibidas tras los daños provocados recientemente por desastres naturales.

30.2 La UNESCO es hoy más importante que nunca. Así lo reclaman millones de analfabetos, niños sin acceso a la escuela o quienes ven en peligro de extinción sus culturas y lenguas. Ellos, y otros seres humanos que enfrentan problemas similares o más agudos, esperan acciones efectivas de la Organización. Pero el éxito de la UNESCO no será posible sin contar de forma estable y previsible con los recursos financieros necesarios. Cumplir nuestras obligaciones con la Organización es un deber, no un favor. Así Cuba lo ha entendido siempre y por ello honramos, tempranamente cada año, nuestra contribución a su presupuesto ordinario, a pesar de estar sometidos a un cruel bloqueo económico, comercial y financiero. Nos inspira la convicción profunda de la necesidad de continuar erigiendo los baluartes de la paz en las mentes de las mujeres y los hombres a través de la educación, la ciencia, la cultura y la comunicación y la información.

30.3 La igualdad de género y África, junto con los pequeños Estados insulares en desarrollo, deben seguir siendo grandes prioridades de la UNESCO. Se requiere la participación efectiva de todos los Estados Miembros en la toma de decisiones, por lo que urge fortalecer el papel de la Conferencia General y su vínculo con el Consejo Ejecutivo.

30.4 Señor Presidente: Cuba cumplió 70 años en el seno de la UNESCO el pasado 29 de agosto y reafirma su compromiso y voluntad política de seguir contribuyendo al logro de sus objetivos y metas. Esta es la principal aspiración de nuestro país con su candidatura para el Consejo Ejecutivo, que esperamos pueda contar con el apoyo de ustedes. Con Cuba podrán seguir contando en este esfuerzo global por hacer realidad un mundo mejor para todos.

30.5 Permítanme finalizar agradeciendo sinceramente a la Directora General y a todo su equipo su incansable esfuerzo, permanente compromiso y liderazgo en la imprescindible tarea de situar la educación, las ciencias, la cultura y la información en el centro del desarrollo. Le deseamos éxito en el futuro.

(30.1) Cuba in extenso (translation from the Spanish): Madam Director-General, Mr President of the General Conference, Mr Chairperson, dear colleagues, we thank you for your solidarity following the recent damage caused by natural disasters.

(30.2) UNESCO is now more important than ever. That is the claim of millions of illiterate people, children without access to education or those whose cultures and languages are in danger of extinction. They, and other humans who are facing similar or more critical problems, expect effective action from the Organization. However, UNESCO will not be

successful if it cannot count on stable, predictable resources. Fulfilling our obligations to the Organization is a duty, not a favour. Cuba has always understood this, and that is why we honour our contribution to the regular budget in a timely fashion every year, despite the fact we are subject to a cruel economic, commercial and financial embargo. We are also deeply convinced that we must continue to lay the foundations of peace in the minds of women and men through education, science, culture, communication and information.

(30.3) Gender equality, Africa and SIDS must continue to be key priorities for UNESCO. Taking decisions requires the effective participation of all Member States, which is why we strongly suggest strengthening the role of the General Conference and its relationship with the Executive Board.

(30.4) Mr Chairperson, on 29 August 2017 Cuba celebrated its seventieth year within UNESCO and reaffirms its commitment and political desire to keep contributing to the achievement of its goals and targets. That is our country’s main aspiration in standing for Board membership. We hope we can count on your support. With Cuba, you can continue to rely on the global effort to bring about a better world for all.

(30.5) Allow me to conclude by addressing our sincere thanks to the Director-General and her entire team for their indefatigable efforts and constant commitment and leadership in the essential task of making education, science, culture and information central to development. We wish you success for the future.

31.1 Indonesia in extenso: Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Mr President of the General Conference, Madam Director-General, Excellencies and colleagues, let me start by stating that Indonesia welcomes the Director-General’s statement, made yesterday. We would like to thank the Director-General for her great commitment in leading UNESCO for the last eight years and wish her all the best in the future.

31.2 Indonesia is committed to playing a responsible and constructive role, as well as making valuable contributions to the promotion of UNESCO's objectives, which are to build peace and attain equitable and sustainable development. ln the field of communication to promote freedom of expression, Indonesia hosted World Press Freedom Day in Jakarta in May 2017. This produced the Jakarta Declaration, which, among other things, calls on UNESCO Member States to “recognize, in terms of their commitments to international human rights standards, the relevance of a free, independent and pluralistic media in the advancement of the sustainable development goal of peaceful, just and inclusive societies”.

31.3 ln conclusion, allow me to underline the particular importance of the election of the future Director-General. Responsibility for such an important task lies in the hands of the 58 Members of the Executive Board. Indonesia trusts the wisdom of the Members of the Board and wishes the best to come out of the election.

32.1 European Union in extenso: Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General, I have the honour to speak on behalf of

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the European Union and the candidate countries Albania, Montenegro and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.

32.2 The United Nations is the best tool we have to address today's global challenges. The European Union (EU) supports the United Nations Secretary-General in his vision for United Nations reform, and in this context we remain equally invested and interested in the continued reform and renewal of UNESCO. We remain its close partner through political support and currently no less than 43 EU-funded projects worldwide. In all modesty the European Union Member States continue to be collectively the largest contributors to the regular budget of UNESCO, and the European Union and its Member States continue to be its largest voluntary donors.


32.3 Monsieur le Président, la jeunesse demeure une priorité pour l’Union européenne. L’Union se réjouit d’apporter son soutien au projet Réseaux de la jeunesse méditerranéenne mis en œuvre par l’UNESCO. Nous poursuivrons cet objectif prioritaire au travers de nombreuses autres initiatives. Le Sommet Union africaine-Union européenne se tiendra en novembre prochain sur le thème central « Investir dans la jeunesse ».

32.4 Nous nous réjouissons de coopérer étroitement avec l’UNESCO dans le cadre de l’Année européenne du patrimoine culturel 2018. Par ailleurs, l’Union poursuit la lutte contre le trafic illicite des biens culturels. La Commission européenne a présenté en juillet une proposition de règlement concernant l’importation de biens culturels. En collaboration avec l’UNESCO, nous allons nous atteler à former les autorités policières et judiciaires compétentes. Nous lancerons également un projet axé sur la préservation de la diversité culturelle et du patrimoine dans les situations d’urgence au Yémen, en Libye, en Syrie et en Iraq.

(L’orateur poursuit en anglais)

32.5 Protecting and promoting freedom of expression, including media freedom, goes to the core of UNESCO’s mandate. We are determined to ensure that it continues to be the champion of the safety of journalists by leading implementation of the United Nations Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity .

32.6 The European Union remains concerned about the situation in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol in Ukraine. The European Union position on this matter remains unchanged. We continue to support UNESCO's focus on the issue by concrete follow-up to the decisions of the Executive Board.

32.7 Lastly, the European Union extends its gratitude for the work and close cooperation with the Director-

General Irina Bokova over the last eight years, and in particular her strong role in expanding the growing partnership between the European Union and UNESCO. We look forward to the nomination of the new Director-General and stand ready to work with him or her.

33.1 Association of South-East Asian Nations in extenso:

Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General, distinguished colleagues, I have the honour of delivering this statement on behalf of the ten member states of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN), comprising Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Viet Nam.

33.2 The year 2017 is a milestone year for ASEAN, marking its fiftieth anniversary. The establishment of an ASEAN Economic Community in 2015 underlines ASEAN’s aspirations to build an inclusive, rules-based, people-oriented, people-centred community. In doing so, we give utmost priority to the development of human resources, education, culture, science and technology in a sustainable and innovation-driven manner. We are committed to fulfilling the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 in a mutually reinforcing manner. UNESCO is an important partner in this endeavour. The Framework Agreement for Cooperation between ASEAN and UNESCO is an important platform for our ongoing cooperation.

32.3 Mr Chairperson, ASEAN is cognizant that this is an important period for UNESCO. We are electing a new Director-General at a time when UNESCO is facing serious challenges. Nonetheless, with challenges also come opportunities. The ongoing reform is an important process and opportunity to strengthen our Organization. In this respect, we welcome the final report of the Working Group on Governance which will be discussed by the Board at this session. We note with appreciation its comprehensive recommendations to improve the inclusivity, transparency, efficiency and coherence of the governing bodies of UNESCO.

32.4 As a matter of principle, ASEAN’s view is that greater participation of all Member States promotes diversity and plurality in our decision-making processes, which underpins effective multilateralism. Thus we believe that discussions on the issues of term limits for Executive Board membership and the election process for the Director-General should continue. In this regard, we support the submission of the Working Group on Governance’s recommendations as a whole to the 39th session of the General Conference.


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FOURTH MEETING

Tuesday 10 October 2017 at 3.15 p.m.













1.1 The President of the General Conference in extenso:

Madam Director-General, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, dear colleagues, I am pleased to be here with you today, having heard your statements at the beginning of this very special session of the Executive Board. Why “special”, some may ask? This session is particularly special given the following context: we will be dealing with the delicate recommendation of a candidate for the key position of Director-General of UNESCO; we will be considering a new draft programme and budget for adoption by the General Conference this coming month; and, of course, several Member States present in this room are coming to the end of their respective mandates.

1.2 First, I would like to warmly thank the Chairperson of the Executive Board, Ambassador Worbs, for the leadership provided to the Board. Mr Chairperson, I have no doubt that all the delegations present in this room will agree with me in acknowledging your constant resolve and commitment to ensure fruitful outcomes during the deliberations of the Board. Your participation and support during our three-body consultations, together with the Director-General, have allowed us to share views and map the way forward in order to align the operational steps of our respective missions.

1.3 In the same vein, I would like to sincerely thank all Members of the Executive Board for your valuable contributions and your commitment to reflecting on,

monitoring and assessing the work of the Organization, and ensuring the effective preparation of the work of the forthcoming General Conference. In particular, I wish to acknowledge and thank you for all the positive comments made in this room since yesterday, regarding the work done by the working group on governance, procedures and working methods of our Organization.

1.4 I would, at the same time, like to pay tribute to the Director-General. Madam Director-General, you have not only led the Secretariat of this Organization during a period that will go down in the annals of our Organization as one of the most difficult, but together with your management team and members of the Secretariat, you have persevered to keep this Organization afloat and relevant. I would like to thank you, the members of your Senior Management Team and, of course, the entire Secretariat, most sincerely for your dedication to our Organization.

1.5 I, myself, will be coming to the end of my term of office as President of the 38th session of the General Conference. Throughout my term, I have attempted to adhere to two principles: one is equality and the other inclusivity, and I must admit and confess that they have guided my actions. Naturally, we are very diverse; we are, indeed, very unequal in character, yet equality must apply as far as opportunities are concerned. Throughout the deliberations of the working group on governance, procedures and working methods of UNESCO, the principle of equality of opportunities and the desire to lead Member States on the path to a continuous search for inclusion at all governance levels was a key founding common denominator in all our deliberations and subsequent recommendations. This session of the Board will thus have the opportunity to appreciate that call in finalizing its comments on the report of the working group, to be submitted to the General Conference as document 39 C/20 for its review and adoption as appropriate.

1.6 Your Excellencies, you will recall that, at the last session of the Executive Board, I respectfully pleaded with all those with outstanding balances to settle them, while at the same time thanking all those Member States who had honoured the payment of their assessed contributions in a timely fashion and, as such, complied with their constitutional obligations to our Organization. I am aware that the situation has evolved, but not for the best, for as the Director-General pointed out in her report, and I quote: “Our Organization has reached the breaking point”. I am therefore reiterating my call and my plea to all those who have appeared to remain both silent and unresponsive to please comply, as the current scenario depicted in the Director-General’s report and in document 202 EX/31 (I) is severely impairing our Organization’s programme-execution efforts.

1.7 Your Excellencies, today, with all the recommendations the Board is expected to make to feed into the deliberations of the General Conference, I am calling upon all Member States to exercise their good judgment. Certainly, we cannot ignore the financial constraints faced by each of our respective nations. Yet, one could be surprised by the lively and lengthy debates on a choice between a two-year budget envelope of $667 million and one of $653 million, considering that the difference between them amounts only to $7 million a year. Wouldn’t it be a better use of Member States’ time to participate in ample debates on the separate issue of enhancing the efficiency of our Organization’s delivery of results? In either scenario, our commitment to the values

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and missions of the Organization must be our guiding principle in mobilizing the resources needed for their implementation.

1.8 The good conscience of Member States should also be an essential feature of the decision-making processes in finalizing the forthcoming elections, both for the position of Director-General and for membership of the Executive Board.

1.9 Regarding the Director-General’s election, we should keep in mind that, as one Member State noted, “The new Director-General should not be regarded as a Messiah.” It is, indeed, incumbent upon us as Member States to create an environment that will allow the Director-General, and his or her team, to smoothly implement the programme that we will be approving at the forthcoming General Conference.

1.10 Regarding the renewal of the Executive Board’s membership, one may be inspired by the progressive ideas advanced in the course of the debates of the working group on governance, procedures and working methods of the Organization. While some Member States had expressed the need to provide some formal regulation for the rotation of Member States’ representation on the Executive Board, others advocated for a flexible approach founded on self-abstention. This open approach not only builds on an orderly functioning and mutual trust between Member States, but also consolidates the principles of fairness and inclusion.

1.11 Oscar Wilde once said: “A pessimist is somebody who complains about the noise when opportunity knocks.” Let us be optimistic for the future of the Organization. Let us fully benefit from the opportunities at our disposal, let us take decisions in good conscience, always promoting the high values of UNESCO. Mr Chairperson, your Excellencies, contributing to peace, promoting fairness and inclusion, and encouraging mutual understanding is never simple, nor is it impossible. However, I strongly believe that these desiderata should gain traction in the fora of our governing bodies, particularly the Executive Board and, by extension, the General Conference. Excellencies, I wish you very fruitful deliberations for the remainder of the programme, and particularly for the ongoing process of electing the next Director-General. Spasibo – thank you very much.

Reply by the Director-General to the plenary debate

2.1 The Director-General in extenso: Dear Members of the Executive Board, first and foremost, allow me to thank the President of the General Conference for his wise and very inspiring statement. He captured I believe the essential issue of this debate: the need to strengthen UNESCO and convey its message - our inherent message about building peace and sustainable development. He also reminded all of us of our responsibilities, so I would like to thank him, and you, Mr Chairperson, for the recent cooperation among the three bodies of the Organization. Naturally, we will still have time for this during the General Conference, but I wanted to mention it at this juncture. Let me also thank all Member States for the strength of their commitment to UNESCO.

2.2 This plenary session, ladies and gentlemen, once again shows the vibrancy of this Executive Board. I see it as a sounding board for the world, as a laboratory of ideas and as a platform for cooperation and joint action. I think all the Member States have made it clear: this Executive

Board will take decisions that will shape the future of the Organization for many years to come. As the distinguished representative of Lithuania reminded us, the future is open, but that means making strong decisions now, in the present, to strengthen UNESCO’s ability to support States and their societies in a world of change. These are decisions about documents 39 C/5 and 39 C/6, presented in a new format, about the future Director-General, about the governance of the Organization and about the wide range of priority programme areas.

2.3 All Member States mentioned the high stakes of these decisions: the stakes of a planet under pressure, facing increasing natural hazards; the stakes of societies facing transformation, exclusion, youth disempowerment, and, at the same time, full of opportunities; the stakes of promoting new forms of intercultural dialogue and tolerance; the stakes of enduring conflict and the rise of violent extremism; the stakes of creating and sharing science for the benefit of all, for sustainable water management, for the sustainability of the ocean; the stakes of defending freedom of expression and enhancing access to information; the stakes, fundamentally, of defending human rights and human dignity, with a particular emphasis on girls and women.

2.4 The distinguished representative of Oman set the tone yesterday when she focused on three core goals for this Executive Board: first, the need for leadership; second, the demand for accountability; and third, the imperative of sustainability. In a similar vein, the distinguished representative of Japan noted the need for decisions to “navigate safely and wisely” through a wide range of challenges.

2.5 In different ways, from different parts of the world, Member States highlighted the importance of responsibility, as I also mentioned in my opening statement yesterday: the responsibility to take forward the agreements reached in 2015, especially the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change; the responsibility to leave no one behind; the responsibility for UNESCO’s “soft power” mandate, which has never been in such high demand, and the responsibility of Member States to fulfil their obligations to the Organization - I think we all heard serious concerns about the impact of the non-payment of assessed contributions on the Organization’s action. In this respect, I agree with the distinguished representative of Argentina, who stated that there can be no “magical solutions”: “We need not magic, but leadership.”

2.6 In my view, leadership means, first, an enduring commitment to deep reform. I agree with the distinguished representative of Germany that moving forward requires “continuing and intensifying the reform process.” I believe this call was echoed in almost every statement both yesterday and today, from Senegal and Mexico to the Netherlands and Kenya, the United States of America, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and many more.

2.7 I wish to thank the many Member States, and particularly the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Sweden and Ukraine, for noting the positive steps we have taken together to strengthen delivery, accountability and risk management. As welcomed by many Member States, this also includes a sharpened focus on UNESCO’s action, on intersectoral approaches to preventing violent extremism, and on enhancing the safety of journalists and ending impunity.

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2.8 I agree that we need to do more to sustain and accelerate this momentum. This is about the continuing reform of UNESCO, its efficiency, its action on the ground and the need to sharpen even more the focus on priorities. This is also what I mentioned yesterday in my opening speech and what many of you mentioned during this general debate: this is about strengthening UNESCO’s role within the United Nations system as a participant in the reform of the United Nations system, as launched by the Secretary-General, António Guterres; this is about the Organization contributing fully to the system reform now underway; this is about building a “United Nations for the twenty-first century”, in the words of the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

2.9 I agree – we have shined light in every corner and upturned every stone – but this must continue - because we have no choice - to strengthen UNESCO’s action in advancing human development and lasting peace on the basis of human rights and in the spirit of a new humanism.

2.10 As many Member States noted, this means continuing to bolster the UNESCO field network, and the results of the comprehensive analysis of the relevance and performance of the field network will be presented to the Executive Board at its 204th session. This means, as stated by the distinguished representatives of Lebanon, Nigeria, Malaysia and others, strengthening action for the education of refugees and internally displaced persons. This is precisely the goal of the new Strategic Framework for Education in Emergencies in the Arab Region, to be launched at the forthcoming General Conference. As many Member States highlighted, it also concerns education in general to bolster UNESCO’s action in enhancing the quality of learning across the board, in pursuing Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, with a focus on girls and women, and science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education, and in building on innovative models like the TeachHer initiative. As noted by a number of distinguished representatives, including those of the Republic of Korea and Uganda, this means making the most of UNESCO’s unique global networks, including institutes, centres and UNESCO Chairs, with a view to strengthening their impact in support of UNESCO’s overall delivery. Fundamentally, this means bolstering even more UNESCO’s mission for peace: to advance dialogue and mutual understanding between and within States and their societies; to make the Organization’s “philosophical, intellectual mandate” concrete, in the words of the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran, through action across the board; to advance intercultural dialogue; to prevent violent extremism and to support new forms of global citizenship and solidarity.


2.11 Mesdames et Messieurs, j’ai lancé hier un appel aux États membres pour qu’ils définissent les priorités de l’UNESCO et recentrent son action sur ses fonctions essentielles et sa valeur ajoutée pour la paix. Je suis encouragée par ce que j’ai entendu de la part de nombreuses délégations et je souhaite que vos débats se traduisent en décisions opérationnelles. Je l’ai dit, et vous l’avez souligné, l’UNESCO traverse une crise financière importante, mais celle-ci n’est que le symptôme d’une crise plus profonde. Vous avez utilisé les métaphores marines de la tempête et du bateau pour

évoquer la situation de l’UNESCO, j’utiliserai la métaphore médicale : en médecine, il ne faut pas confondre les symptômes et la cause d’un problème. Certes, l’UNESCO a besoin de son budget plein et entier, c’est la moindre des choses, mais ce n’est pas avec des fonds supplémentaires que l’on va régler la question de ses priorités. Ce n’est pas avec des fonds supplémentaires que l’on va renforcer sa visibilité, c’est avec l’impact, et c’est dans ce sens que j’ai voulu agir.

2.12 Je suis encouragée par les contributions concrètes dont ont fait part de nombreux États et je veux notamment saluer la ratification par le Royaume-Uni de la Convention de 1954 pour la protection des biens culturels en cas de conflit armé et de ses deux Protocoles. C’est l’aboutissement d’un long processus, dans lequel je vois la reconnaissance du travail de l’UNESCO et le résultat de son action de plaidoyer en faveur de la culture et de la sécurité. Désormais, tous les membres permanents du Conseil de sécurité ont ratifié cette Convention. Je vous ai entendu mettre l’accent sur de nouveaux mécanismes de dialogue et de médiation pour éviter les contentieux. L’UNESCO doit en effet se concentrer sur les initiatives qui facilitent le dialogue, le rapprochement, l’apaisement. Je vous ai entendu insister sur les sciences et sur la nécessité de renforcer les liens entre les sciences naturelles, humaines et sociales. La délégation d’Haïti a souligné que les politiques environnementales devaient être associées aux politiques sociales aux fins de la prévention et de la reconstruction. La délégation de Saint-Kitts-et-Nevis a utilisé une formule que je trouve très éclairante : il faut « articuler les phénomènes » climatiques et sociaux, faire le lien entre le dérèglement climatique et la multiplication des phénomènes extrêmes. Face à la violence du monde, nous ne pouvons pas continuer de courir d’une urgence à l’autre, d’une catastrophe à l’autre. Notre rôle est d’aider les peuples à anticiper, à se préparer, à prévenir et à réduire les risques par le renforcement des capacités. Ce fut l’objet de l’appel lancé par la République dominicaine au nom du GRULAC et l’objet de mon engagement constant en faveur du renforcement du rôle de l’UNESCO dans la prévention des risques dans le cadre du Projet de programme et de budget (39 C/5), ainsi que de notre Plan d’action pour les petits États insulaires en développement. À titre d’exemple, l’UNESCO a envoyé à Antigua-et-Barbuda une équipe chargée d’évaluer les risques post-catastrophe sur les bâtiments scolaires, avec le soutien de pompiers italiens. Du 2 au 4 octobre 2017, 51 écoles ont été évaluées. Nous avons dispensé une formation régionale pour la collecte de données nécessaires à l’élaboration des politiques scientifiques, technologiques et d’innovation, en lien avec l’Institut de statistique de l’UNESCO, CARISCIENCE, l’Université des Antilles et neuf représentants des petits États insulaires en développement de la région des Caraïbes.

2.13 Je suis depuis longtemps convaincue de la nécessité de rapprocher davantage les sciences naturelles, humaines et sociales, car il y a des synergies évidentes à créer, aussi ai-je fait des propositions en ce sens. Je constate d’ailleurs que le Conseil international pour la science et le Conseil international des sciences sociales ont fait le choix de fusionner pour former, d’ici à 2018, une seule entité commune pour toutes les sciences. Dans le même esprit, je salue la proposition de nombreuses délégations tendant à resserrer encore les liens entre patrimoine naturel et culturel, par l’amélioration de la gouvernance entre le patrimoine

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mondial et les réserves de biosphère. Je pense aussi aux propos du Cameroun, qui a souligné à juste titre l’utilité du travail sur l’éthique de la science et de la technologie, au cœur des activités de la COMEST.

2.14 Ce sont, Mesdames et Messieurs, des chantiers d’avenir, et je prendrai pour les illustrer l’image du réseau, composé de points dispersés mais reliés entre eux par des connexions. L’UNESCO a été créée pour valoriser les connexions, pas pour isoler les points. C’est là que réside notre valeur ajoutée. À cet égard, je rejoins l’Espagne qui a souligné que les différents secteurs n’étaient pas des compartiments étanches. Les fondateurs de l’UNESCO n’ont pas créé cinq organisations différentes pour l’éducation, les sciences, la culture, la communication et l’information, mais bien une seule entité chargée de travailler à la coopération dans les domaines de l’esprit. C’est cette unité fondamentale de notre mandat que nous nous devons de garder en permanence à l’esprit. Lorsque l’UNESCO s’engage pour la préservation du patrimoine, comme nous le faisons aujourd’hui en Iraq ou en Syrie – et je remercie l’ensemble des délégations pour leur soutien appuyé dans ce domaine – nous ne séparons pas cette action de notre travail pour l’éducation et la prévention de l’extrémisme violent. Les deux sont inséparables. Vous avez reçu dans vos casiers un petit dépliant descriptif de notre action récente pour la restauration du Lion de Palmyre avec le soutien de l’Union européenne. Il s’agit d’un nouvel exemple, concret, modeste mais emblématique, de notre action sur le terrain.

2.15 J’ai écouté avec un grand intérêt le débat sur les sujets nouveaux de l’intelligence artificielle, des bouleversements de la robotique et de la quatrième révolution industrielle. Au-delà du débat sur le fond, qui sera d’ailleurs au cœur des discussions d’une prochaine réunion du Conseil des chefs de secrétariat, je voudrais attirer votre attention sur les transformations considérables provoquées par l’émergence de géants informatiques en moins d’une décennie. Nous avons vu grandir des sociétés quasi inconnues il y a dix ans : Google, Facebook, Weibo, WeChat, WhatsApp, Twitter – dont je comprends que vous êtes un fervent utilisateur, Monsieur le Président – et nous en avons vu d’autres, bien installées, comme Kodak, disparaître. Il suffit aujourd’hui d’un individu avec une bonne idée pour créer un empire industriel, et nous avons assisté en quelques années seulement à l’émergence d’acteurs d’envergure mondiale dans les domaines du transport, de la distribution ou d’Internet, avec des effets considérables sur l’emploi et la coopération entre États.

2.16 L’UNESCO, Mesdames et Messieurs, n’est pas à l’abri de ces mutations. L’enjeu, pour les grandes institutions, est de maintenir intacte leur capacité à créer, à anticiper, à innover et à s’inventer. C’est là un aspect de l’accord que nous venons de signer avec l’OCP, société marocaine publique mais conçue comme privée, dans le domaine de la prospective pour imaginer le futur de l’Afrique. Fédérer artistes et chercheurs pour stimuler cette diversité créative et offrir des solutions pour la paix, pour le monde, pour la jeunesse et pour nous-mêmes est le cœur du métier de l’UNESCO. Nous devons investir davantage à cette fin. Cela demande certainement des moyens, mais plus encore une vision claire de la part des États membres, que le Secrétariat pourra mettre en œuvre.

2.17 En conclusion, Mesdames et Messieurs, je tiens à vous remercier très chaleureusement des paroles si

aimables que vous avez prononcées à mon égard, à l’approche du terme de mes huit ans à la tête de cette belle Maison, et à vous dire combien j’ai été inspirée par la diversité de vos idées et par votre énergie pour la paix. Si je tiens à remercier chacun d’entre vous, j’ai une pensée particulière pour Son Excellence Karan Singh, distingué représentant de l’Inde, qui achève également son mandat. Nehru disait de l’UNESCO qu’elle était la « conscience de l’humanité ». Vous, Monsieur Singh, avez été l’une des consciences fortes de cette Maison menant des débats depuis tant d’années sur tant de sujets importants, tels que l’éducation ou la citoyenneté mondiale, et assumant aujourd’hui la fonction de Président du Conseil d’administration de notre Institut Mahatma Gandhi d’éducation pour la paix et le développement durable, institut déjà renommé. Je pourrais parler longuement de vous mais me bornerai à évoquer votre contribution considérable à l’élaboration du rapport Delors sur l’éducation pour le vingt et unième siècle.

(L’oratrice poursuit en anglais)

2.18 I refer to the famous report: “Learning: the treasure within: learning to know, learning to do, learning to be, learning to live together”. I think this is still what is so relevant to this House.


2.19 Mesdames et Messieurs, j’ai mis un point d’honneur à porter partout le message de l’UNESCO en me déplaçant sur le terrain, en travaillant avec de nombreux partenaires. J’ai vu beaucoup d’institutions, beaucoup de chefs d’agence, et j’ai pu comparer les moyens, les atouts et les difficultés de chacun. Chateaubriand a écrit : « Lorsque je m’examine, je me désole, lorsque je me compare, je me console » : tout en étant exigeants dans nos critiques envers l’UNESCO, pour l’améliorer et la réformer, nous devons savoir regarder en face nos atouts, et ce que nous avons réussi ensemble. Cela demande aussi du courage. Le distingué représentant d’un État des Caraïbes, la République dominicaine, a cité ce matin en espagnol la chanson d’un ex-Beatles, John Lennon, « Je suis peut-être un rêveur, mais je ne suis pas le seul ». Mon très cher ami, Monsieur l’Ambassadeur, c’était là un bel hommage à l’originalité de l’UNESCO et à sa capacité de créer des ponts entre les cultures, pour imaginer la paix dans le monde. Je vous remercie.

Questions and answers with the Director-General

3.1 The representative of Oman said that she welcomed the Director-General’s efforts to develop a contingency plan so that the next Director-General would not be confronted with financial instability; initiating such a plan clearly demonstrated the Director-General’s sense of responsibility. According to document 202 EX/4.INF, most of the Organization’s programme execution targets were likely to be achieved. In the document, reference to the contingency plan was only made in the section concerning the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC), while for other sectors, reference was made only to limited resources. Had the impact of the contingency plan been taken into account in drawing the conclusion that most of the programme execution targets would be achieved?

3.2 One challenge facing the Education Sector in helping Member States to develop quality education systems offering lifelong learning opportunities for all

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was the lack of fast-track procedures. What steps were being taken to meet that challenge?

3.3 It was vital to establish linkages between technical and vocational education and training (TVET) and higher education. Accordingly, it might be useful to collect the best practices of those countries where such linkages were most effective. She wondered whether such information could be incorporated into the guidelines on that matter that the Secretariat intended to draft or into the regular report on the 2015 Recommendation concerning Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). Further details about the planned guidelines would also be appreciated.

4. The Director-General said that the contingency plan to achieve cost reductions, as set out in document 201 EX/25 Part II and endorsed by the Board in 201 EX/Decision 25.II, had been carefully evaluated by the Bureau of Strategic Planning (BSP), in conjunction with the Bureau of Financial Management (BFM) and the Bureau of Human Resources Management (HRM). The plan would obviously have an impact on the Organization as a whole.

5.1 The Assistant-Director General for Education (ADG/ED) said that the Education Sector had been studying for some time the question of fast-track procedures in emergency cases. The issue was complex, involving for example the processing of contracts and fast-tracking of funds to the field, and would therefore require an organization-wide approach.

5.2 The suggestion by the representative of Oman to collect best practices with regard to the link between TVET and higher education was an excellent one and he would be seeking a way to implement it.

6.1 The Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences (ADG/SC), responding to the question raised by the representative of Oman, said that the discrepancy between document 202 EX/4 INF. and the contingency plan had arisen simply because the document had been submitted to the Board before phases 1 and 2 of the contingency plan had been implemented.

6.2 The Natural Sciences Sector had been implementing the contingency plan by postponing or reducing its activities. It had, for example, questioned the need to attend the twenty-third session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 23) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), but thanks to generous support from the Government of Germany, the Sector would be present. It had also cut back on its presence and activities at the UNESCO Africa Engineering Week held in September 2017 in Kigali, Rwanda, and had postponed holding an international conference on earthquake early warning systems. She thanked all the Member States concerned for their understanding and the field offices for their support as the difficult task of implementing the contingency plan continued.

7. The Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) said that the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission had taken the contingency plan into account when making its proposals for the next biennium. IOC operations could not be discontinued because they dealt with threats to human safety. The Commission was therefore reflecting on how to ensure the services it provided in spite of the Organization’s financial

problems. To ensure the continuity of their efforts, the staff members were seeking additional commitments, for example, a new initiative for an international decade of ocean science for sustainable development, which would be presented at the next United Nations Ocean Conference and which was being considered for sponsorship by the United Nations.

8. The representative of Uganda asked whether the Guidance, Counselling and Youth Development Centre for Africa (GCYDCA), in Lilongwe, Malawi, would be maintaining its category 2 status in view of its transformation in 2016 into the African University of Guidance Counselling and Youth Development.

9. The Assistant Director-General for Social and Human Sciences (ADG/SHS) said that the Guidance, Counselling and Youth Development Centre for Africa had been a joint endeavour by the Social and Human Sciences Sector and the Africa Department. There had indeed been good relations between UNESCO and the Centre, including a pilot project on strengthening capacities for youth-led social entrepreneurship, up until the time of its transformation. The next step would be to conduct an independent evaluation to assess whether the Centre’s category 2 status should be renewed, and if so, on which programmes it should place emphasis.

10.1 The representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran requested that the UNESCO logo that had been removed from the front wall of Room I during its renovation be returned to its original position. The logo was part of UNESCO’s history, and featured in all the photos of UNESCO’s General Conference, which always met in Room I.

10.2 The Director-General had steered the Organization for eight years, through difficult times. He wished to know what recommendations she had for UNESCO’s future, and what specific issues she would like to promote. In respect of decisions about the ongoing reform of the Organization, he wondered whether more weight was being given to expert opinions than to the wishes of the Member States.

11.1 The Director-General said that from the start of the reform process, which had begun well before the financial crisis, she had always given due consideration to the views of the Member States; she had proposed various strategies, including a different structure for the Secretariat, in response to Member States’ calls for reform, bold decision-making and imagination. At the same time, she had relied on highly experienced experts to guide her. For the future, UNESCO should focus on trust, as she had done: trust between Member States and the Secretariat, between the Member States, and between the governing bodies. Without trust, it would be far more difficult to continue to make reforms and implement programmes.

11.2 Trust had been built first through administrative reform, with the introduction of transparency portals, consolidation of the Organization’s evaluation process, introduction of more modern working methods, and greater cooperation between the programme sectors. In general, an effort had been made to make the Organization accountable and transparent to the Member States. The financial crisis had naturally led to greater cooperation among all partners, including the field offices, resulting in an unprecedented level of intersectoral cooperation. Programme planning and implementation was an area in which trust needed to be

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encouraged, in particular between programme, administrative and management teams.

12. The representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran said that he had not meant to imply that the Director-General failed to accept the views of Member States; the problem was an occasional discrepancy between the recommendations of experts advising on reform and the wishes of Member States. Better coordination in that regard was needed to ensure that the best possible proposals for reform were put forward.

13. El representante de la República Dominicana, tras recordar que en el debate plenario ya ha hecho referencia a la famosa canción “Imagine”, de John Lennon, en el que este declara que quizá sea un soñador, pero no el único, apunta la idea de organizar un concierto auspiciado por la UNESCO en el que artistas de todo el mundo tomen la palabra para recordar que la paz es lo más necesario para que el planeta siga girando, lo que accesoriamente daría más notoriedad a la Organización, y pregunta a la Directora General si a su juicio tal idea tiene visos de convertirse en realidad o es la mera ilusión de un soñador.

(13) Le représentant de la République dominicaine, rappelant la référence qu’il a faite, lors du débat plénier, à la célèbre chanson « Imagine » de John Lennon, dans laquelle ce dernier déclare qu’il est peut-être un rêveur mais qu’il n’est pas le seul, avance l’idée d’organiser un concert sous l’égide de l’UNESCO à l’occasion duquel des artistes du monde entier s’exprimeraient pour souligner l’importance primordiale de la paix pour que la Terre continue de tourner, ce qui, accessoirement, améliorerait la visibilité de l’Organisation. Il demande à la Directrice générale si cette idée pourrait selon elle se transformer en réalité ou si ce n’est qu’une pure illusion de rêveur.

14. The Director-General said that the question raised was about the very meaning and purpose of UNESCO – why it existed and why it had been established. Peace was most certainly the Organization’s raison d’être. UNESCO’s specificity was that it promoted international cooperation via a large platform, working in the fields of education, scientific cooperation and scientific diplomacy, communication, cultural rapprochement, dialogue and tolerance. It was not just a technical agency providing technical support; it had launched major, global initiatives that had taken root and been endorsed by the international community; it had

founded numerous governmental and non-governmental institutes. It had fostered many modern ideas such as global citizenship and education and continued to push the limits of intellectual and innovative thinking. It had created networks of scientists, intellectuals and political leaders. It was a leader in the efforts to prevent violent extremism and protect tangible and intangible heritage. She had full confidence in the Organization’s ability to contribute to peace and sustainable development, which were two sides of the same coin.

GENERAL CONFERENCE (continued)

Item 26: Nomination of a candidate for the post of Director-General of UNESCO (202 EX/26.INF) (continued)

15. The Chairperson informed the Members that the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan had withdrawn the candidacy of Mr Polad Bülbüloglu for the post of Director-General of UNESCO. The meeting would be suspended to allow the second round of voting to be held in a private meeting.

The meeting was suspended at 4.25 p.m. and resumed at 5.40 p.m.

Second round of voting

16.1 The Chairperson announced the results of the second round of voting:


Number of votes obtained: Mr Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kawari (Qatar) 20 Ms Audrey Azoulay (France) 13 Ms Vera El-Khoury Lacoeuilhe (Lebanon) 3 Ms Moushira Khattab (Egypt) 12 Mr Pham Sanh Chau (Viet Nam) 5 Mr Qian Tang (China) 5

16.2 The Chairperson said that since no candidate had obtained the majority required, a third ballot would be held in private meeting, on Wednesday 11 October at 6.30 p.m.


202 EX/SR.1-12 page 71 – SR.5

FIFTH MEETING

Wednesday 11 October 2017 at 7.20 p.m.




Third round of voting

1.1 The Chairperson stated that, prior to the third round of voting, the Government of Viet Nam had withdrawn the candidature of Mr Pham Sanh Chau for the post of Director-General, leaving a total of five candidates. He then announced the results of the third round of voting:

Number of Members: 58

Number of Members absent: 0 Number of blank or invalid ballot papers: 0 Number of votes recorded: 58 Majority required: 30

Number of votes obtained:

Mr Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kawari (Qatar) 18 Ms Audrey Azoulay (France) 18 Ms Vera El-Khoury Lacoeuilhe (Lebanon) 4 Ms Moushira Khattab (Egypt) 13 Mr Qian Tang (China) 5

1.2 He then said that since no candidate had obtained the required majority, a fourth ballot would be held on Thursday 12 October at 6.30 p.m.


202 EX/SR.1-12 page 73 – SR.6

SIXTH MEETING

Thursday 12 October 2017 at 7.20 p.m.




Fourth round of voting

1.1 The Chairperson stated that, prior to the fourth round of voting, the Government of China had withdrawn the candidature of Mr Qian Tang and the Government of Lebanon had withdrawn the candidature of Ms Vera El-Khoury Lacoeuilhe for the post of Director-General, leaving a total of three candidates. He then announced the results of the fourth round of voting:



Number of votes obtained: Mr Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kawari (Qatar) 22 Ms Audrey Azoulay (France) 18 Ms Moushira Khattab (Egypt) 18

1.2 He then said that pursuant to Rule 56.4 of its Rules of Procedure, the Executive Board would hold an eliminating ballot, in order to choose between the two candidates who had obtained the same number of votes in the fourth round of voting, namely Ms Azoulay (France) and Ms Khattab (Egypt). The eliminating ballot would be held the following day, 13 October 2017, at 2 p.m., after which the fifth and final round of voting would be held the same day at 6.30 p.m.


202 EX/SR.1-12 page 75 – SR.7

SEVENTH MEETING

Friday 13 October 2017 at 2.40 p.m.




Eliminating ballot

1.1 The Chairperson announced the results of the eliminating ballot:



Number of votes obtained: Ms Audrey Azoulay (France) 31 Ms Moushira Khattab (Egypt) 25

1.2 He then said that the final round of voting, between the two remaining candidates, Mr Al-Kawari (Qatar) and Ms Azoulay (France), would take place at 6.30 p.m. that same day.


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EIGHTH MEETING

Friday 13 October 2017 at 7.15 p.m.




Final round of voting

1.1 Le Président donne lecture des résultats du cinquième tour de scrutin qui s’est déroulé en séance privée. Le résultat du vote est le suivant :


Number of votes obtained: Mr Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kawari (Qatar) 28 Ms Audrey Azoulay (France) 30

(Applaudissements)

1.2 Le Président dit que le Conseil exécutif a ainsi désigné Mme Audrey Azoulay (France) comme la candidate qu’il propose à la Conférence générale pour le poste de directeur général de l’UNESCO. Il félicite Mme Azoulay et précise que la Conférence générale examinera sa nomination le 10 novembre 2017. Il rappelle que si sa candidature est approuvée, elle sera chargée en tant que chef de l’administration de l’UNESCO, de gérer efficacement le programme et budget de l’Organisation en vue d’assurer la réalisation des résultats escomptés, en particulier la mise en œuvre du Programme de développement durable à l’horizon 2030. Il lui adresse, au nom des membres du Conseil et en son nom propre, ses vœux de succès et l’invite à dire quelques mots.

2.1 Mme Azoulay (in extenso) : Mesdames et Messieurs les représentants, Mesdames et Messieurs les ambassadeurs, Mesdames et Messieurs les ministres, chers amis qui êtes tous là, je voudrais commencer par remercier l’ensemble des États membres du Conseil exécutif pour leur confiance. Je voudrais vous dire que je suis pleinement consciente des responsabilités qui m’incombent, et je devrais dire qui nous incombent, collectivement. Il n’a échappé à personne, durant cette semaine particulièrement, que l’UNESCO traversait des difficultés, et face à ces difficultés, le pays qui est le mien, la France, a choisi non pas de quitter l’UNESCO, mais au contraire de s’y investir davantage et de s’y impliquer, et de chercher à restaurer le consensus qui nous est si nécessaire et si cher.

2.2 Je voudrais saluer les huit autres candidats qui se sont proposés pour mission d’intérêt général et les remercier. Je voudrais aussi remercier la diplomatie française, qui a cherché à retisser les fils entre nous. Je voudrais vous dire que nous avons choisi de nous engager auprès de l’UNESCO parce que nous croyons dans l’action collective, seule à même de faire face aux défis qui sont les nôtres, et parce que je crois en la puissance de l’éducation, de la culture, des sciences, des libertés et des droits de l’homme pour affronter ces défis.

2.3 Mais ma première priorité, dans le contexte qui est le nôtre, ce serait de restaurer la confiance, de

restaurer la crédibilité de l’UNESCO. Bien sûr entre États membres, cette confiance est importante, mais elle l’est aussi vis-à-vis du monde, de nos opinions publiques et de la société civile. Je m’attacherai à restaurer cette responsabilité collective avec vous car rien ne sera possible sans l’implication de tous les États membres de l’UNESCO – et j’en appelle à la responsabilité de chacun, car cette crise nous oblige, aussi en cela, à être responsables, parce que cette institution est indispensable à la communauté des nations. Il faudra faire des choix importants pour moderniser l’institution, et poursuivre et approfondir les réformes déjà engagées pour la rendre plus agile et plus efficace.

2.4 Je voudrais saluer Irina Bokova et le travail qui a été effectué sous son mandat, par ses équipes, pendant ces huit années, et je voudrais que nous inscrivions l’action de l’UNESCO dans la réforme qui est actuellement conduite pour l’ensemble du système onusien par António Guterres, car je crois que c’est notre seule chance de réaliser l’Agenda 2030 que nous nous sommes collectivement fixé et qui est important pour chacun d’entre nous. Nous ne pourrons y arriver que si nous le faisons collectivement. Merci à tous.

(Applaudissements)

3.1 The President of the General Conference said that despite the final vote having been held on Friday the thirteenth, the outcome had nothing to do with luck; rather it was the conclusion of a meticulous election process undertaken in accordance with standard, transparent and international rules. Of course, all recommendations made by the Executive Board to the General Conference should be regarded as essential and historic. Yet, the nomination of a candidate for the post of Director-General of UNESCO had special institutional and human significance, particularly for the Secretariat, the operational arm of UNESCO. Now that the nomination had been made, it was incumbent on the Member States to create a positive environment for the Organization’s efforts, both before and after the election.

3.2 He congratulated Ms Azoulay on his own behalf and on behalf of the General Conference, and wished her all the best for the future, both in her individual career and as head of the Organization.

4.1 The Director-General said that she wished to congratulate Ms Azoulay. It was notable that immediately after her nomination, the first question she had been asked was whether she wanted to be known, in French, as “Directeur general” or “Directrice générale”.


4.2 Poursuivant en français, elle se réjouit de ce que la présence d’une femme au poste de directeur général soit déjà bien ancrée dans l’Organisation. Elle rejoint la candidate sur le fait qu’il est essentiel de restaurer la confiance et de réaffirmer les valeurs communes des membres de l’UNESCO, qui sont d’élever les défenses de la paix dans l'esprit des hommes et des femmes par l’éducation, la science et la culture. Convaincue que la candidate, qui croit au multilatéralisme et au mandat de l’UNESCO, saura poursuivre son action avec les mêmes valeurs, elle la félicite et lui offre tout son soutien.


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NINTH MEETING

Tuesday 17 October 2017 at 10.15 a.m.



Item 20: Report by the Executive Board on its activities and programme implementation

Item 20.I: Activities in 2016-2017, including its methods of work

1.1 The Chairperson said that, at the Director-General’s request, consideration of document 202 EX/18 Part I (B), under item 18.I “Renewals and reviews of category 2 institutes and centres”, would be postponed to allow time for finalization of the agreement with the International Centre for Human Sciences (CISH) in Byblos, Lebanon.

1.2. He then announced that the plenary would be suspended to allow a private meeting to be held to consider agenda items 3 “Report by the Director-General on the application of Rule 59 of the Rules of Procedure of the Executive Board”, 23 “Examination of the communications transmitted to the Committee on Conventions and Recommendations in pursuance of 104 EX/Decision 3.3, and report of the Committee thereon”, and 33 “Appointment by the Executive Board of the Chairperson and the Alternate Chairperson of the Appeals Board”, recalling that it was customary for participation in private meetings to be restricted to representatives of Members of the Board, accompanied by no more than two alternates, and to members of the Secretariat directly involved with the items under discussion.

The meeting was suspended at 10.15 a.m. and resumed at 11.30 a.m.

Annonce concernant la séance privée tenue le mardi 17 octobre 2017

2. La Secrétaire annonce que le Conseil exécutif, réuni précédemment en privé, a examiné respectivement les points 3, 23 et 33 de son ordre du jour. Sur le point 3, en application de l’article 59 du Règlement intérieur du Conseil exécutif, la Directrice générale a informé le Conseil des événements intervenus depuis la 201e session concernant des décisions relatives à des nominations et des prolongations d’engagement de fonctionnaires de classe D-1 ou de rang supérieur, dont les postes relèvent du Programme ordinaire de l’Organisation. Le Conseil a ensuite examiné le rapport du Comité sur les conventions et recommandations sur le point 23, en a pris note et a fait siens les vœux qui y étaient exprimés. Enfin, sur le point 33, « Nomination par le Conseil exécutif du Président et du Président suppléant du Conseil d’appel », le Conseil a procédé à la nomination d’une présidente et d’un président suppléant du Conseil d’appel pour un mandat de quatre ans à compter du 1er janvier 2018.

Adoption of draft decisions recommended to the Executive Board

Committee on Conventions and Recommendations (CR): report and draft decisions recommended to the Executive Board (202 EX/46)

Item 24: Implementation of standard-setting instruments

Item 24.I: General monitoring (202 EX/24 Part I; 202 EX/24.INF)

Draft decision in paragraph 16 of document 202 EX/46

3. Mr Veer (Netherlands) (Temporary Chairperson of the Committee on Conventions and Recommendations – CR) in extenso:

Concerning item 24.1 on the general monitoring of normative instruments, as you may recall, following the 179th session of the Executive Board in April 2008, the CR Committee decided to examine at each of its sessions the measures taken by the Secretariat for the application of the two conventions and 14 recommendations that the Executive Board is required to monitor. Therefore, the Committee members considered document 202 EX/24 Part I, containing a report on the situation of these 16 normative instruments and an analysis of specific measures adopted by the Secretariat within the legal framework of the monitoring of the implementation of these standard-setting instruments and the difficulties encountered for each of the instruments. During the discussion, the Committee received further information from the representatives of all the sectors on the monitoring of the conventions and recommendations under their responsibility. At the end of the discussions, the Committee members invited the Director-General to continue to ensure the implementation of the legal framework for the monitoring of these 16 standard-setting instruments and to present the next report to the Executive Board at its 204th session in spring 2018. The draft decision recommended to the Executive Board by the Committee is reproduced in paragraph 16 of document 202 EX/46.

4. The Chairperson said that if he heard no objection, he would take it that the Board wished to adopt the draft decision in paragraph 16 of document 202 EX/46.


Item 24.II: Implementation of the 1960 Convention and Recommendation against Discrimination in Education – summary of the reports concerning the implementation of the Convention and the Recommendation (202 EX/24 Part II)



Concerning item 24.II, the Committee took note of the summary of the reports concerning the implementation of the 1960 Convention and Recommendation against Discrimination in Education. The Members of the Committee expressed their appreciation to the Education Sector for the summary of the 67 reports submitted by Member States, and for the more extensive report on the 9th Consultation, entitled “Ensuring the right to equitable and inclusive quality education”. The Committee invited the Director-General to share the results of the 9th consultation with other specialized agencies and online through UNESCO’s global database. Furthermore, the members of the Committee reaffirmed the centrality of the right to education in the context of Sustainable Development Goal 4 – Education 2030 and encouraged the Director-General

202 EX/SR.1-12 page 80 – SR.9

to intensify normative action by strengthening the implementation of the 2015-2021 strategy to improve visibility, ratification, implementation, monitoring and cooperation of education-related standard-setting instruments. This summary of the reports will be transmitted to the General Conference at its 39th session, together with the Committee’s observations, and any observations or comments that the Director-General may wish to make. The draft decision is reproduced in paragraph 20 of document 202 EX/46.

7. The Chairperson said that if he heard no objection, he would take it that the Board wished to adopt the draft decision in paragraph 20 of document (202 EX/46).


Item 24.III: Implementation of the 1974 Recommendation concerning Education for International Understanding, Cooperation, Peace and Education relating to Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms – consolidated report on the implementation of the Recommendation (202 EX/24 Part III Rev.)



The Committee took note of the report on the implementation of the 1974 Recommendation concerning Education for International Understanding, Cooperation, Peace and Education relating to Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms. While taking note of the high level of participation in the consultation, the members of the Committee highlighted the need to find a better balance between qualitative and quantitative analyses in the next consolidated report on the implementation of the 1974 Recommendation. However, they noted with satisfaction that a more comprehensive analytical report on the 6th Consultation would be published by the Education Sector before the end of the 39th session of the General Conference. In conclusion, the Committee invited the Director-General to share the results of the 6th Consultation with other specialized agencies through relevant fora, and online, through UNESCO’s global database on the right to education, in particular as a means to support the implementation and monitoring of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Committee members also requested the Director-General to transmit to the General Conference at its 39th session this consolidated report on the implementation of the 1974 Recommendation, together with the Committee’s observations, and any observations or comments that the Director-General may wish to make. The draft decision is reproduced in paragraph 25 of document 202 EX/46.

10. The Chairperson said that if he heard no objection, he would take it that the Board wished to adopt the draft decision contained in paragraph 25 of document 202 EX/46.


Item 24.IV: Implementation of the 1974 Recommendation on the Status of Scientific Researchers – consolidated report on the implementation of the Recommendation (202 EX24 Part IV)



With regard to item 24.IV, the Committee took note of the consolidated report on the implementation of the 1974 Recommendation on the Status of Scientific Researchers. While underlining that the revision of the 1974 Recommendation is to be examined by the General Conference at its 39th session, the Members of the Committee commended the Social and Human Sciences Sector for the findings of the second consultation with Member States on the implementation of this Recommendation. The Committee recommended that the Secretariat develop new guidance for future monitoring of the 1974 Recommendation, including a revised questionnaire and guidelines, in the light of the revised version of the Recommendation that the General Conference may adopt at its 39th session. ln addition, the Committee members invited the Director-General to transmit to the General Conference at its 39th session the consolidated report on the implementation of the 1974 Recommendation, together with the Committee's observations, and any observations or comments that the Director-General may wish to make. The draft decision is reproduced in paragraph 32 of document 202 EX/46.



Item 24.V: Implementation of the 1993 Recommendation on the Recognition of Studies and Qualifications in Higher Education (202 EX/24 Part V)



Concerning item 24.V, the Committee took note of the progress report on the implementation of the 1993 Recommendation on the Recognition of Studies and Qualifications in Higher Education. After recalling that UNESCO monitors the 1993 Recommendation through the regional and interregional recognition conventions, the Education Sector provided an update on developments in each region. On this occasion, the Education Sector informed the Committee that the revision of the 1974 Regional Convention on the Recognition of Studies, Diplomas and Degrees in Higher Education in Latin America and the Caribbean is well underway and that there is momentum to launch the revision of the 1978 Convention on the Recognition of Studies, Diplomas and Degrees in Higher Education in the Arab States. Furthermore, the representative of the Education Sector also provided additional information on the work already done by the drafting committee to elaborate the preliminary draft of the global convention for the recognition of higher education qualifications. ln conclusion, the Committee members took note of the Director-General's efforts to monitor the 1993 Recommendation, particularly in the context of the revisions to the regional conventions on recognition of higher education and the development of a global convention. They also requested the Director-General to present the draft guidelines for the reporting on the implementation of the 1993 Recommendation to the

202 EX/SR.1-12 page 81 – SR.9

Executive Board at its 204th session in spring 2018. The draft decision recommended to the Executive Board by the Committee is reproduced in paragraph 37 of document 202 EX/46.

16. The Chairperson said that if he heard no objection, he would take it that the Board wished to adopt the draft decision in paragraph 37 of document 202 EX/46


Item 24.VI: Implementation of the 2011 Recommendation on the Historic Urban Landscape – including a glossary of definitions – preparations for the next consultation (202 EX/24 Part VI)



On item 24.VI, the members of the Committee commended the Culture Sector for the draft guidelines for the preparation of reports by Member States on the application of the 2011 Recommendation on Historic Urban Landscape, including a glossary of definitions. The Committee approved these guidelines and requested the Director-General to invite UNESCO Member States to submit their reports on the implementation of this 2011 Recommendation by 30 August 2018. The second consolidated report on the implementation of this Recommendation will be presented to the Executive Board at its 204th session in spring 2019 with a view to transmitting that report, together with the Executive Board's comments thereon, to the General Conference at its 40th session in autumn 2019. It should be noted that the Committee thanked Member States having already provided their support to the implementation of the 2011 Recommendation and invited all Member States to provide financial and/or human resources for the monitoring of its implementation. The draft decision recommended to the Executive Board by the Committee is reproduced in paragraph 42 of the document before you.



Item 24.VII: Implementation of the 2015 Recommendation concerning the Protection and Promotion of Museums and Collections, their Diversity and their Role in Society – preparations for the next consultation (202 EX/24 Part VII)



Concerning item 24.VII, the members of the Committee expressed their appreciation to the Culture Sector for the guidelines developed for the preparation of reports by Member States on the implementation of the 2015 Recommendation concerning the Protection and Promotion of Museums and Collections. The Committee approved these guidelines and requested the Director-General to invite UNESCO Member States to submit their reports on the implementation of this 2015 Recommendation by 30 August 2018. The first

consolidated report on the implementation of this Recommendation will also be presented to the Executive Board at its 206th session in spring 2019 with a view to transmitting that report, together with the Executive Board's comments thereon, to the General Conference at its 40th session in 2019. I would like to note that as with the 2011 Recommendation, the Committee thanked Member States having already provided their support to the implementation of the 2015 Recommendation and invited all Member States to provide financial and/or human resources for the monitoring of its implementation. The draft decision recommended to the Executive Board by the CR Committee is reproduced in paragraph 43 of document 202 EX/46.



Item 25: Protocol instituting a Conciliation and Good Offices Commission to be Responsible for seeking the Settlement of any Disputes, which may arise between States Parties to the Convention against Discrimination in Education – Nominations and report of the Committee on Conventions and Recommendations thereon (202 EX/25)



. We were very positive about the previous points but on this point, I think we have to work a little harder. On item 25, the CR Committee took note of the fact that the 35 States Parties to the 1962 Protocol have not yet submitted nominations for the election of eight members of the Conciliation and Good Offices Commission. After recalling that it is the responsibility of these States Parties to ensure the proper functioning of this body established by the 1962 Protocol, the Committee requested the Director-General to invite once again the States Parties to submit nominations, and to transmit any nominations received before the opening of the vote that is to take place at the 39th session of the General Conference. The draft decision recommended to the Executive Board by the CR Committee is reproduced in paragraph 49 of document 202 EX/46. Thank you, Mr Chairperson.


26. It was so decided

27. The representative of Bangladesh thanked Mr Veer, on her own behalf and on behalf of Dr Chowdhury, for his excellent presentation of the report.

28. El representante del Paraguay, tras suscribir las palabras de la representante de Bangladesh, hace extensivo su agradecimiento al Presidente del Comité CR, cuyo trabajo califica de excelente, ecuánime y disciplinado.

(28) The representative of Paraguay, endorsing the comment by the representative of Bangladesh, expressed appreciation to the Chairperson of the Committee on Conventions and Recommendations

202 EX/SR.1-12 page 82 – SR.9

(CR) for his work, which he described as excellent, impartial and disciplined.

29. Mr Veer (Netherlands) (Temporary Chairperson of the Committee on Conventions and Recommendations – CR) thanked Mr Chowdhury and the members of the Committee on Conventions and Recommendations, the representatives of the Director-General, the Legal Advisor and her team, the clerks, the technicians, the documents unit team, the interpreters and the translators, all of whom had contributed to the Committee’s positive working environment.

30. The representative of Bangladesh, joined by the representative of Nigeria, commended Mr. Veer on the active role he had played as temporary Chairperson of the Committee. The Committee had successfully resolved various matters and had held fruitful discussions about the manner in which the different conventions and recommendations were formulated, in an atmosphere of mutual support and cooperation.

31. The Chairperson expressed his gratitude to Ambassador Veer for his leadership as temporary Chairperson of the Committee; commended Mr Chowdhury, the Committee Chairperson, for encouraging productive debate and helping the members to achieve excellent results; and thanked the members of the Committee for their work and dedication.

ORGANIZATION AND PROCEDURAL MATTERS (continued)

Item 3: Report by the Director General on the application of Rule 59 of the Rules of Procedure of the Executive Board (202 EX/PRIV.1; 202 EX3.INF)

32. The Director-General drew attention to document 202 EX/3.INF which set out the proposed structural adjustments to the UNESCO Institute of Statistics (UIS).

33. The Director of the UNESCO Institute for Statistics (DIR/UIS) said that the UNESCO Institute for Statistics was structured around three pillars of action: (1) norms, standards and methodology, and in particular, production of indicators for the 2030 Agenda; (2) data production and (3) data analysis and communication. To better adapt to the demands of the 2030 Agenda, the Institute had, after a lengthy review of its operations and consultation with the relevant bodies, decided to modify its structure by adding three new programme areas: Education Survey Section, for the collection of statistics in education; Education Standards and Methodology, which took into account the development of different norms and processes; and Data Analysis and Outreach, designed to analyse data with a view to building partnerships and better communicating the information collected by the Institute. The proposed modifications had been endorsed by the Institute’s staff, its Policy and Planning Committee and its Governing Board. The new structure had been in place since January 2017 and was functioning well.

34. Le représentant du Togo félicite la Directrice de l’Institut de statistique pour la réforme qu’elle a conduite, qui a été approuvée par le Conseil d’administration de l’Institut. Il lui demande des explications sur les différences de niveau entre les postes qui ont été proposés dans l’architecture des sections, certains étant de classe P-4 et d’autres de classe P-5. Il souhaiterait savoir également à quel niveau se situent les chefs du réseau en Afrique subsaharienne, dans les États arabes,

en Asie-Pacifique et en Amérique latine, et s’ils sont basés sur le terrain ou à l’Institut même.

35.1 La Directora del Instituto de Estadística de la UNESCO (DIR/UIS) señala que a la hora de definir el nivel y mandato de cada uno de los puestos del Instituto, así como el tamaño y la composición de los correspondientes equipos, trabajó en colaboración con la Oficina de Gestión de Recursos Humanos de la UNESCO.

35.2 Así, por ejemplo, la labor de la Sección de Servicios Estadísticos y Tecnología, centrada sobre todo en la obtención y consulta de datos en línea, conforme a la política de transparencia de los datos establecida por la UNESCO, exige un equipo que trabaje “entre bambalinas” y preste apoyo a los procesos de extracción de datos y que a la vez pueda, como ya ha sido el caso, impartir formación en la materia a los asociados que trabajan con el Instituto.

35.3 En lo que concierne a todas las tareas administrativas, habida cuenta de la estructura del Instituto y del gran número de transacciones que realiza, se consideró que para dirigirlas se necesitaba un profesional de nivel P4 auxiliado por sendos profesionales de nivel P3, uno responsable de los asuntos financieros y otro, de incorporación inminente, a cargo de los recursos humanos. En cuanto a la importante labor de elaboración de estadísticas sobre ciencia, tecnología e innovación, cultura, comunicación e información, por el trabajo que ello supone también de obtención de datos y formulación de normas, se entendió que su dirección correspondía a un profesional de nivel P4.

35.4 Por otra parte, uno de los cometidos más importantes del Instituto es el de elaborar métodos y normas en materia de estadísticas de educación, labor que exige manejar la Clasificación Internacional Normalizada de la Educación, conocer la estructura de los sistemas educativos, definir indicadores, elaborar directrices y manuales metodológicos para los países, y un largo etcétera. Este quehacer, sumado al de comunicación del Instituto, análisis y difusión de datos y creación de alianzas de dimensión regional o mundial, supone un importante volumen de trabajo y exige un nutrido equipo, cuya dirección corresponde por ello a un profesional de nivel P5.

35.5 Para encabezar el trabajo de obtención de datos y elaboración de estadísticas sobre resultados de la educación, que reviste también gran intensidad e importancia por su especial vinculación con los objetivos de la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo Sostenible, se consideró adecuado, previa consulta con la Oficina de Recursos Humanos, un cargo de nivel P4, secundado por otros dos de nivel P3 y por un buen número de estadísticos, en general jóvenes, que se dedicasen a “limpiar” los datos desde la Sede del Instituto en Montreal.

35.6 Por lo que respecta a la prestación de apoyo a los Estados Miembros, el Instituto cuenta con dos mecanismos distintos: por un lado, dentro de cada uno de los servicios que operan desde las oficinas de Montreal el personal está repartido por regiones y tiene a su cargo un determinado grupo de países, ocupándose sobre todo de cuestiones técnicas relacionadas con los datos; por el otro, hay equipos desplegados sobre el terreno que trabajan con los países y se dedican más bien a las relaciones institucionales, la concertación de acuerdos y el desarrollo de las capacidades estadísticas. El responsable de la región África es una persona de

202 EX/SR.1-12 page 83 – SR.9

contrastada trayectoria, que se ocupa de temas de muy diversa índole en una de las regiones más necesitadas del apoyo del Instituto. Es un profesional de nivel P5, al que secundan varios cargos de nivel P3 y personal local. Se trata del servicio más numeroso con que cuenta el Instituto, ya sea en Montreal o sobre el terreno. Para la región Estados Árabes se propone un puesto de nivel P4, al igual que en las regiones Asia y el Pacifico y América Latina y el Caribe. Este personal desplegado sobre el terreno se completa con una serie de asesores regionales de nivel P3.

35.7 La oradora concluye señalando que el Instituto tiene a más de 35 personas, esto es, más de la mitad de su plantilla, dedicadas a prestar apoyo a los Estados Miembros, ya sea desde las oficinas de Montreal o sobre el terreno, en labores de obtención de datos, asistencia técnica, desarrollo de las capacidades estadísticas o relaciones con los asociados.

(35.1) The Director of the UNESCO Institute for Statistics (DIR/UIS) pointed out that when determining the grade and term of office for each post at the Institute, as well as the size and composition of the corresponding teams, she had worked closely with the Bureau of Human Resources Management (HRM).

(35.2) The work of the Statistical Services and Technology Section, for instance, which focused mainly on online data searches and consultation, in keeping with data transparency policy established by UNESCO, required a team that worked “behind the scenes” and provided data-mining support while also being able, as had already been the case, to provide relevant training to the partners working with the Institute.

(35.3) On the overall administrative work, it had been deemed necessary, given the structure of the Institute and the large number of operations handled, to assign that work to a P-4 Professional assisted by two P-3 Professionals, one dealing with financial matters and the other taking charge, with immediate effect, of human resources. Regarding the important work of developing statistics on science, technology and innovation, culture, communication and information, it had been agreed that the related data collection and standard-setting tasks would have to be led by a P-4 Professional.

(35.4) Meanwhile, one of the Institute’s most important tasks was to develop methodologies and standards in the field of education statistics, which, among many other things, called for the use of the International Standard Classification of Education, knowledge of the structure of education systems, the establishment of indicators and the development of methodological manuals and guidelines for the countries concerned. That task, in addition to those associated with UIS communication, data analysis and dissemination and regional or global-level partnership building, involved a considerable amount of work that called, in turn, for a well-staffed team led by a P-5 level professional.

(35.5) On the tasks of data collection and developing statistics on education outcomes, which also involved a great deal of important work in view of the particular links to the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, it had been deemed appropriate, after consulting with HRM, to assign the

leadership role to a P-4 level post, backed by two P-3 Professionals and a good number of largely young statisticians to “clean up” the data at UIS headquarters in Montreal.

(35.6) With respect to the support provided to Member States, the UIS relied on a two-sided approach: on the one hand, the staff in each of the services operating at the Montreal offices were divided up and each was assigned to a particular region, with responsibility for a given group of countries, primarily for data-related technical questions; on the other, deploying teams in the field to work with the countries on institutional relations, concluding agreements and statistical capacity-building. The person in charge of the Africa region had a solid professional background and dealt with a highly diverse range of issues in one of the regions most in need of UIS support. That staff member, a P-5 Professional supported by various P-3 and local staff, was in charge of the Institute’s largest service, either in Montreal or in the field. For the Arab States region, as with the Asia and the Pacific and Latin America and the Caribbean regions, a P-4 post was proposed. The individual in question would be deployed in the field and assisted by a range of P-3 regional advisers.

(35.7) In conclusion, she pointed out that the UIS had assigned more than 35 people – over half its staff – to providing support to Member States, either from the Montreal offices or in the field, in the areas of data collection, technical assistance, statistical capacity-building or relations with partners.

Draft decisions recommended to the Executive Board (continued)

Committee on Non-Governmental Partners: report and draft decisions recommended to the Executive Board (202 EX/47)

Item 37: Relations with non-governmental partners (202 EX/37; 202 EX/37.INF; 202 EX/37.INF.2)

Draft decision in paragraph 4 of the document 202 EX/47

36.1 Mr Tanasković (Serbia) (Chairperson of the Committee on Non-Governmental Partners – NGP) in extenso:

It is my pleasure and privilege to submit the following report on the work of the Committee on Non-Governmental Partners (NGP) to this plenary meeting of the 202nd session of the Executive Board. In my capacity as Chairperson, I was honoured to open the last meeting of the NGP Committee of this biennium on Friday 6 October 2017. According to Rule 16.2 of the Rules of Procedure of the Executive Board, Her Excellency Ms Maria Teresa Lizaranzu, representative of Spain, was designated as Temporary Chairperson of the Committee. As is customary, many representatives of NGOs in official partnership attended the meeting and actively took part in its discussions. After the adoption of the provisional timetable, the Committee examined item 37 “Relations with non-governmental partners”.

36.2 In his introductory remarks, Mr Eric Falt, Assistant Director-General for External Relations and Public Information, made an in-depth presentation on the status of cooperation with non-governmental partners and the progress of work carried out by the Secretariat pursuant to

202 EX/SR.1-12 page 84 – SR.9

the relevant decisions of the Executive Board and the General Conference. In this regard, he reviewed the progress accomplished since the adoption of the new Directives in 2011, which have resulted in a much stronger, focused and visible cooperation with civil society. He also recalled that, at its 200th session, the Executive Board asked the Secretariat to deepen its reflection and develop proposals aimed at furthering the interaction and dialogue among Member States and NGOs. On this point, Mr Falt introduced the study conducted by the Secretariat, with valuable assistance from the Permanent Delegations of Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden, which I would like to thank once again. The study establishes an exhaustive mapping of practices, developed by a number of United Nations sister agencies, and suggests some options that could be envisaged by the Executive Board to develop further the said interaction.

36.3 Mr Philippe Beaussant, Chairperson of the International Conference of NGOs maintaining official relations with UNESCO and of the NGO-UNESCO Liaison Committee, made a presentation on civil society’s collective work coordinated by the Liaison Committee. He expressed the Liaison Committee’s strong support for enhancing NGOs’ participation in the Executive Board sessions.

36.4 The NGP Committee highly appreciated the review of the work accomplished, in particular, the organization of two International Forums of NGOs. The first one was held in Querétaro, Mexico, in November 2016, for the first time in Latin America and the Caribbean; and the second Forum entitled “Youth and their Social Impact”, was held in May 2017 in Riyad, Saudi Arabia, for the first time in the Arab region. Allow me, Mr Chairperson, to commend the UNESCO-NGO Liaison Committee and the Secretariat, whose ability and engagement were essential in mobilizing our non-governmental partners around the above projects in particular, and in further implementing the Directives of 2011 in general.

36.5 In the course of a rich and constructive debate, delegates highlighted the importance of cooperation with NGOs in face of the ongoing and future challenges of humanity. They all expressed satisfaction at the progress made regarding this cooperation. Therefore, the Committee welcomed some advances allowing a wider representation of civil society organizations and observed with appreciation the increasing geographical diversity of the NGO network.

36.6 The Committee took note of the Director-General’s decision to admit eight NGOs to official partnership with consultative status as well as to establish official relations with one foundation. While stressing that all these organizations have been developing important cooperation with UNESCO, the Committee acknowledged with satisfaction that these organizations are based in three different regions and seven countries, which is a significant step towards widening and balancing geographical representation. Furthermore, the Committee also acknowledged that official relations with seven foundations had been renewed for an additional period of six years, in accordance with the provisions of the Directives concerning UNESCO’s partnership with foundations and similar institutions.

36.7 The Committee strongly appreciated the work accomplished by the Secretariat in the preparation of the study requested by the Board in 200 EX/Decision 23, and

has unanimously recognized the importance of furthering dialogue between Member States and NGOs at all levels. It therefore considered important to pursue reflection and to conduct an in-depth examination of both fields of action proposed by the Secretariat in document 202 EX/37: on the one hand, on improving informal dialogue with NGOs by making good use of existing mechanisms; and on the other, on NGO participation in UNESCO’s governing bodies, especially within the Executive Board. In addition, the Committee wished to set a specific timetable to define concrete proposals, to be submitted to the consideration of the Executive Board at its 205th session. This is the sense of paragraph 7 of the draft decision submitted to you for adoption.


36.8 Mesdames et Messieurs, chers collègues, à la fin de mon mandat en tant que Président du Comité, je tiens à vous remercier chaleureusement de la confiance que vous m’avez accordée et espère avoir été à la hauteur de nos enjeux. J’ai pour ma part le sentiment d’avoir contribué, bien que très humblement, au renforcement de notre coopération et de notre dialogue avec la société civile, dont je voudrais ici réaffirmer l’importance. Les partenaires non gouvernementaux sont des alliés sûrs et indispensables dans notre combat pour relever les défis qui se posent à l’humanité. Ensemble, nous pourrons, je l’espère, trouver des approches novatrices qui nous permettront d’aider efficacement les États membres et la société civile à atteindre les objectifs de développement durable visant à transformer le monde. C’est la seule façon d’accomplir notre mission commune, à savoir, préserver l’écosystème de la planète et bâtir une paix durable et un développement inclusif pour les générations futures. Ensemble, nous devons lutter inlassablement contre les divisions et les divers types d’aliénation qui font dévier l’humanité de son axe. Le nombre croissant d’ONG qui s’intéressent à nos travaux ainsi que l’augmentation, lente mais sûre, du nombre de membres de la société civile venant des régions les moins représentées, sont un moyen incontournable d’enrichir notre coopération. Il convient donc de miser sur cette richesse de notre Organisation en exploitant de nouvelles possibilités de dialogue entre les ONG et les États membres avec l’aide du Secrétariat. L’efficacité de l’information à tous les niveaux est une des conditions essentielles au succès de notre action dans ce domaine.


36.9 I have concluded my oral presentation of the deliberations in the NGP Committee. I sincerely hope that the main viewpoints of our meeting were duly reported in my presentation. Since this is my last term as Chairperson of the Committee, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to all those who contributed to the success of our work, and assisted me in my duties. I would like to start by warmly thanking you, Mr Chairperson, for your support for the work of the Committee and for your diplomatic competence and personal commitment in leading the Executive Board. To the distinguished members of the Committee, I wish to offer my true gratitude for your continuing participation in and support for our deliberations. I should like to express my thanks to the UNESCO-NGO Liaison Committee and the UNESCO Secretariat, and in particular the representative of the Director-General, Mr Eric Falt, for his constant presence and invaluable contribution to our debates all through the past years.


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36.10 Permettez-moi de souligner, sur une note plus personnelle, le rôle tout à fait exceptionnel de M. Éric Falt, qui est toujours allé au-delà de ses devoirs officiels et administratifs. Il est vraiment rare et admirable de voir un haut fonctionnaire onusien s’investir si pleinement et veiller, avec un enthousiasme authentique, à l’exécution de sa mission. Je ne doute pas que sa contribution remarquable portera encore ses fruits à l’avenir dans le domaine des partenariats de notre Organisation avec les ONG. Comme a dit le grand Louis Pasteur, « nul effort n’est vain ».


36.11 Let me further express my warmest thanks to the Secretary of the Committee, Ms Sabina Colombo and her team (Ms Violeta Aguiar, Ms Ilona Genevois and Mr Armin Ibrisimovic), for their professionalism and for the energy deployed during this period to facilitate my work. I should finally like to extend my thanks to the team of interpreters, the room clerks and the technical staff, who contributed as usual to the success of our work. I thank you all for your attention and I remain at your disposal to answer any further questions you may have.

37. La representante de España felicita el Presidente del Comité ANG por sus dos años de excelente labor al frente de este órgano, cuyo complejo cometido de reforzar y mejorar el diálogo con los representantes de la sociedad civil exige a la vez el apoyo de la Secretaría y las virtudes de que ha hecho gala su Presidente.

(37) The representative of Spain commended the Chairperson of the Committee on Non-Governmental Partners (NGP) on his two years of excellent work at the helm of a body whose complex task of strengthening and improving dialogue with the representatives of civil society called for both the support of the Secretariat and the qualities demonstrated by its Chairperson.

38. The Chairperson thanked Mr Tanasković for his work. If he heard no objection, he would take it that the Board wished to adopt the draft decision contained in paragraph 4 of document 202 EX/47.



202 EX/SR.1-12 page 87 – SR.10

TENTH MEETING

Tuesday 17 October 2017 at 3.10 p.m.


ADOPTION OF DRAFT DECISIONS RECOMMENDED TO THE EXECUTIVE BOARD (continued)

Special Committee (SP): report and draft decisions recommended to the Executive Board

Item 22: Reports by the Joint Inspection Unit (JIU) of interest to UNESCO and the status of implementation of recommendations (202 EX/22 and Corr.)


Item 21: Governance, procedures and working methods of the governing bodies of UNESCO (202 EX/21 and Corr.)


Item 41: Amendment to Rule 23 of the Rules of Procedure of the Executive Board to allow written contributions to the plenary debate to be included in the Summary Records (202 EX/21 and Corr.)




Item 20.I: Activities in 2016-2017, including its methods of work

1.1 Ms Samira Al Moosa (Oman) (Chairperson of the Special Committee – SP) in extenso:

Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Mr President of the 38th session of the General Conference, Mr Deputy Director-General, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, dear colleagues, it is my pleasure to present my oral report on the work of the Special Committee, which held its last session of the biennium on 5 and 6 October 2017.

1.2 The Special Committee successfully completed its work on the three agenda items it had been mandated to discuss: item 22 on “Reports by the Joint Inspection Unit (JIU) of interest to UNESCO and the status of implementation of recommendations”, item 21 on “Governance, procedures and working methods of the governing bodies of UNESCO”, and finally item 41 on “Amendment to Rule 23 of the Rules of Procedure of the Executive Board to allow written contributions to the plenary debate to be included in the Summary Records”.

1.3 These three items, which fall within the spheres of competence of different services of the Organization, were discussed as appropriate with representatives of the Internal Oversight Service (IOS), UNESCO’s Legal Adviser, the Secretariat of the Governing Bodies (GBS) and the Bureau for the Management of Support Services (MSS). Several programme sectors were also present and provided additional clarification that informed the deliberations.

1.4 Concerning the first item of our agenda, item 22, I wish to start by highlighting the much appreciated contribution of both the Director of the UNESCO Internal Oversight Service (IOS), Ms Frueh, and the Chairperson of the Joint Inspection Unit, Mr Kramer. Mr Kramer happened to be travelling through Paris and graciously

agreed to take time out of his busy schedule to share his insights with the Committee. On this occasion, Mr Kramer presented the work of the JIU, its possible future undertakings that would be of interest to UNESCO and, together with the Director of IOS, provided clarification on the status of ongoing reviews. Mr Kramer further stressed the key role of Member States in taking action on the recommendations put forward by the JIU and expressed his appreciation to the UNESCO Secretariat for its good stewardship of relations with the JIU.

1.5 Debates on this item were fruitful and mainly focused on how to improve dissemination of JIU’s important work, which aims to increase transparency and improve follow-up by Member States on the implementation of its recommendations. In this regard, the Special Committee was also informed of the upcoming upgrade of JIU’s web-based tracking system to allow for increased transparency. Member States also received clarification on concrete actions undertaken by the Secretariat on recommendations pertaining to succession planning and knowledge management, fraud awareness and small island developing States.

1.6 Taking into account the clarifications provided by the Secretariat together with the Chairperson of JIU, the draft decision on item 22 contained in paragraph 45 of document 202 EX/22 was recommended for adoption by the plenary, following amendment.

1.7 The second item on our agenda was item 21. Here we discussed the report of the Working Group on Governance, Procedures and Working Methods of the Governing Bodies of UNESCO, established at the 38th session of the General Conference. Under this item we also discussed the evaluation of the intersessional meetings of the Members of the Executive Board in their current form.

1.8 As concerns the report of the Working Group on Governance, Procedures and Working Methods of the Governing Bodies of UNESCO, it was underlined that the comments of the Executive Board on the report would be noted in a separate decision. This decision would be submitted to the next General Conference in the form of an addendum to document 39 C/20 bearing the reference 39 C/20 Add. To make sure that there was no misunderstanding on the role of the Special Committee in this respect, it was furthermore stressed that the report was being submitted to the General Conference “as is”, with no intention of modifying its content. On this understanding, and in order to ensure an effective and productive discussion on 202 EX/21 in the Special Committee, the Special Committee members agreed to consider the report, and in particular the 134 recommendations contained therein, as a package. This implied that the discussions in the Special Committee would build on the work accomplished by the working group and focus on specific aspects of the report that could benefit from the Special Committee’s insights and thereby assist the General Conference in its own deliberations on the report.

1.9 Overall, despite the complexity of the issue and process, the debate pertaining to this item occurred in a collegial atmosphere which permeated our work over the two days. Generally speaking, all speakers commended the important work and achievements of the working group, its spirit of inclusivity and its openness. The role of the President of the 38th session of the General Conference, of the co-chairs and of the Secretariat was notably praised in this respect. The Special Committee

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members furthermore recognized that the recommendations, once put into practice, would certainly improve transparency and governance. They were also of the view that the proposed recommendations would further simplify and rationalize our working methods. Most comments on the report provided the opportunity to clarify and explore the implications of some of its recommendations.

1.10 Several members also underlined the importance of the follow-up mechanisms, and in particular the need to put in place an implementation plan with a clear timeline. It was also noted that further consideration should be given to the recommendations stemming from the External Auditor’s report on the governance of UNESCO in relation to those elaborated by the working group.

1.11 I should bring to your attention the fact that we had robust discussions on the follow-up to the recommendations that remain in brackets. The exchanges highlighted the fact that there were two divergent opinions on the matter among Member States. A number of Special Committee members and observers strongly opposed the bracketed recommendations and were of the opinion that the General Conference should not consider them. Another group of members and observers advocated in support of these recommendations or at least in support of the General Conference’s prerogative to decide on them. For these Member States the main concern was that a restrictive approach to the recommendations in brackets would overstep the Executive Board’s mandate and eventually deny the General Conference the possibility of debating the report in full. Some observers emphasized that not all of the recommendations in brackets were problematic in nature. It was noted that among the recommendations in brackets there were some that could easily have led to a consensus if more time had been available for consultations. For this reason, some argued that the paragraphs in brackets should not be considered as a block.

1.12 After a long, open and rich debate on the bracketed recommendations, the Special Committee members came to an agreement on the need to underline, and I directly quote the terms of the draft decision, “that in these critical times for the Organization the reform of the governance of UNESCO needs to be consensus-driven without prejudice to the competence of the General Conference”.

1.13 After this discussion, considerable attention was also given to evaluation of the intersessional meetings under item 21. Building on the recommendations of the working group on governance and the outcomes of the 10th intersessional meeting of the Executive Board summarized in document 10 INX/2 Rev., the Special Committee looked into two possible options for the future preparatory mechanism: either (i) the Executive Board decides to do nothing, and therefore we automatically revert to the Preparatory Group of the Executive Board and organization of information meetings between the Director-General and the Executive Board or (ii) the Executive Board decides to fine-tune the existing preparatory mechanism based on the lessons learned from the current biennium and to improve it.

1.14 After an exchange, the Special Committee decided to pursue the second option and therefore tried to articulate guidance – or elements for possible terms of reference for a future preparatory mechanism. It was, however, decided that since these elements were still very

much “work in progress” the ideas collected on the new mechanism would not be included in the draft decision relating to item 21 that is being recommended for adoption by the Executive Board. It was decided that these elements would instead be summarized in a separate document, referenced as 202 EX/21.INF.SP. The elements listed in this document reflect a general understanding and willingness among Member States to move forward collectively. As you will see, one of the key features of the envisaged new mechanism that is highlighted in this document 202 EX/21.INF.SP is its inclusiveness. This means that the new mechanism should be open to all UNESCO Member States and not only to the Members of the Executive Board. Delegates also valued transparency and cost-effectiveness.

1.15 I will not summarize this document, but allow me to simply highlight a few important points contained in it that signal a significant move forward. The working languages of the new mechanism were discussed at length. While we all agreed that working in several languages could be costly for the Organization, some members and observers strongly pointed out that languages are an inseparable aspect of inclusiveness. As one Member State put it, “They are an asset, not a cost.” Special Committee members and observers deliberated on the matter and came to an understanding that “the working languages of the group shall be the six official languages, whenever possible”.

1.16 The document 202 EX/21.INF.SP contains several other useful elements pertaining to the composition, leadership, agenda, periodicity and working methods of the future group that should help ensure that it operates as a constructive preparatory mechanism. I encourage delegates to read the document as a source of inspiration for future deliberations on this subject.

1.17 Taking into account the very rich and extensive debates that took place on item 21 pertaining to both the report of the Working Group on Governance Procedures and Working Methods of the Governing Bodies of UNESCO and evaluation of the intersessional meetings, the Special Committee agreed on a draft decision on item 21 – contained in paragraph 6 of document 202 EX/48 – that is being recommended for adoption by the Executive Board.

1.18 With these remarks, allow me to move to our third and last agenda item, item 41, which focused on the possibility of allowing written contributions to the plenary debate to be included in the summary records of the Executive Board. This item had already been presented by Sweden and thoroughly discussed at the very recently concluded intersessional meeting. The document had also been widely disseminated, well in advance of this session of the Executive Board. Members were generally favourable to the principle of the proposal, on condition that the submission of written contributions to the plenary debate would be on a voluntary basis only and be considered along with other possible efforts to enhance the efficiency of the plenary debate without increasing its overall cost.

1.19 In the discussion, several other proposals were put forward to enhance the efficiency of the Executive Board, including the reduction of time allocated for statements during the plenary debate and reduction of the frequency of such statements from twice to once a year. Throughout these discussions, the members of the Special Committee expressed concern about how best to use the time gained by these voluntary time-saving

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measures. This matter would have to be discussed in the months to come, as practices evolve.

1.20 After this interesting debate and several constructive inputs by the Legal Adviser, the Director of the Secretariat of the Governing Bodies (GBS) and the Director of the Bureau for the Management of Support Services (MSS), the members of the Special Committee considered that there was no need to amend Rule 23 of the Executive Board’s Rules of Procedure. Accordingly, the draft decision on item 41 contained in paragraph 7 of document 202 EX/41 and Corr. was recommended for adoption by the plenary with amendments reflecting these considerations.

1.21 This concludes my summary of the debates that took place in the Special Committee. As you can see from this report, despite the complexity of some of the issues that we had to deal with, we were productive and advanced swiftly. I am particularly pleased that we worked in a constructive and collegial spirit. I wanted to underline this point because I believe it is important to make it known that we are determined to work together to support this Organization and ensure it remains a relevant and well-functioning institution.

1.22 In this regard, allow me to warmly thank the Friends of the Special Committee group. Chaired by the Ambassador of Spain, Her Excellency, Ms Maria Teresa Lizaranzu Perinat, this group untangled many knots and built bridges smoothing the way to consensus and agreement.

1.23 For my part, I wish to say that it has been an honour to support the work of the Special Committee during this biennium. I am proud of its accomplishments and in particular of the fact that the Committee has managed to complete its work once again on time and present concrete suggestions to improve the efficiency of our sessions, which are contained in 202 EX/21.INF.SP.

1.24 This gives me an opportunity to express my immense gratitude to you, Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, for your invaluable guidance and support throughout this biennium. Before finishing, kindly allow me to express my gratitude to my colleagues on the Committee and to all Member States that contributed to our work. I would also like to thank the members of the Secretariat of the Special Committee, who have diligently assisted us during this biennium, starting with Ms Lydia Ruprecht, the Secretary of the Special Committee, and her team, Mr Bruno Mesquita Valle, Ms Maria Minana and Ms Martha Milanzi Nguni. My thanks also go to the team of interpreters, typists, technicians and clerks for their great work and support. They were particularly helpful in ensuring the smooth rollout of the work of the Committee in Room IV. I also wish to thank the Secretariat of the Governing Bodies for its unwavering support throughout the two years. Special thanks go to Ms Karima Bekri-Lisner for agreeing to change the room of the Special Committee at such short notice, thereby creating the conditions for a constructive and productive discussion.

1.25 As my mandate as Chairperson of the Special Committee comes to an end, allow me to conclude by stressing the importance of our continuing work to enhance the efficiency and good governance of our Organization in alignment with the United Nations-led reform. Principles of accountability, ethics and transparency have to shift from the status of slogans to become a reality. Practised in every aspect of UNESCO, this is how we can increase the credibility of this

Organization, attract funds and eventually improve its impact on the world.

2. La representante de España encomia el modo en que la Presidenta del Comité Especial ha sabido dirigir los trabajos de este órgano, largos y complejos por la gran importancia de los puntos tratados, y le agradece que haya facilitado la participación de miembros y no miembros del Comité SP y del Consejo Ejecutivo.

(2) La représentante de l’Espagne salue la façon dont la Présidente du Comité spécial a dirigé les travaux de cet organe, qui ont été longs et complexes compte tenu de l’immense importance des points à traiter, et la remercie d’avoir facilité la participation des membres et des non-membres du Comité SP et du Conseil exécutif.







9. Le représentant de l’Algérie, après avoir félicité l’Ambassadrice d’Oman pour sa présidence avisée du Comité spécial, souhaiterait savoir s’il a bien compris que l’ancien format du groupe préparatoire serait rétabli si le Conseil exécutif ne prenait aucune décision relative aux travaux de l’intersession à sa prochaine session.

10. The Chairperson said that the representative of Algeria was correct. The Preparatory Group of the Executive Board and the information meetings between the Director-General and the Executive Board had been suspended for the current biennium, but at its 203rd session, the Executive Board would have to take a decision on whether to continue with this arrangement or to adopt new preparatory mechanisms. He commended the Chairperson of the Special Committee for her dedication and thanked the members of the Special Committee for their work.

METHODS OF WORK OF THE ORGANIZATION (continued)


Item 20.I: Activities in 2016-2017, including its methods of work (202 EX/20 Part I Rev.)

Draft decision in paragraph 40 of document 202 EX/20 Part I

11. The Chairperson said that the report by the Executive Board on its activities in 2016-2017, including its methods of work, which was contained in document 202 EX/20 Part I Rev., would be presented to the General Conference at its 39th session, incorporating, where appropriate, recommendations made in the Board’s

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debates at its 202nd session. He invited Members to communicate to the Secretariat any comments or observations on the report by the following day.

12. The representative of Oman (Chairperson of the Special Committee) said that there was no mention of the Ethics Office in the report, despite the issue having been frequently discussed.

13. The Chairperson said that the report would in any event be revised to include the discussions of the current session in order to cover the full biennium. If he heard no objection, he would take it that the Board wished to adopt the draft decision contained in paragraph 40 of document 202 EX/20 Part I.



Item 27: Preparation of the 39th session of the General Conference

Item 27.I: Revised provisional agenda of the 39th session of the General Conference (202 EX/27 Part I Rev.)

Draft decision in paragraph 6 of document 202 EX/27 Part I Rev.

15. La Secrétaire indique qu’entre la parution de l’ordre du jour provisoire de la Conférence générale (39 C/1 Prov.) et le 4 septembre 2017, date limite fixée pour l’inscription de questions supplémentaires, quatre questions ont été présentées respectivement par la Fédération de Russie, la France, le Honduras – au nom du Groupe de l’Amérique latine et des Caraïbes – et l’Inde, et quatre autres par la Directrice générale (document 202 EX/27 Partie I Rev.). Un certain nombre de points seront par ailleurs ajoutés à l’ordre du jour provisoire révisé à la suite des décisions adoptées par le Conseil exécutif à sa session en cours. Le Conseil est donc appelé à fixer l’ordre du jour provisoire révisé de la Conférence générale sur la base du document 39 C/1 Prov., de la liste supplémentaire examinée et de ses décisions à la 202e session.

16. The Chairperson said that if he heard no objection, he would take it that the Board wished to adopt the draft decision contained in paragraph 6 of document 202 EX/27 Part I Rev.


Item 27.II: Addendum to the draft plan for the organization of the work of the 39th session of the General Conference (202 EX/27 Part II Rev.)

Draft decision in paragraph 4 of document 202 EX/27 Part II Rev.

18. La Secrétaire présente le document 202 EX/27 Partie II Rev., qui contient des propositions concernant la répartition entre les différents organes de la Conférence générale des questions supplémentaires présentées (paragraphe 2) ainsi qu’une liste des questions à l’ordre du jour provisoire de la Conférence générale que le Conseil exécutif souhaitera peut-être recommander à celle-ci pour adoption sans débat préalable (annexe).

19. The Chairperson said that if he heard no objection, he would take it that the Board wished to adopt the draft decision contained in paragraph 4 of document 202 EX/27 Part II Rev.


Item 27.III: Submission of nominations for the offices of President and Vice-Presidents of the 39th session of the General Conference as well as for the offices of Chairpersons of committees and commissions (202 EX/27 Part III)

21. The Chairperson said that in April 2017 the President of Group V(b) had proposed Her Excellency Zohour Alaoui for the office of President of the 39th session of the General Conference. No other candidatures had been received. The candidature of Ms Alaoui had been endorsed unanimously by Group V(b).

22. The nomination of Her Excellency Zohour Alaoui was adopted by acclamation.

23. The Chairperson, on behalf of all the Members of the Executive Board, warmly congratulated Ms Alaoui on her unanimous nomination as candidate for the office of President of the 39th session of the General Conference, which would certainly benefit from her wisdom and leadership. Her dedication to the Organization’s aims and her long experience on the Executive Board, which was proud to put forward her name for this high office as head of UNESCO’s supreme governing body, were vital assets for that role.

24. La Directrice générale, se réjouissant de la décision du Conseil exécutif, félicite Mme Alaoui pour sa nomination. Elle se dit convaincue que Mme Alaoui, dont elle connaît l’expérience diplomatique, l’engagement en faveur du mandat de l’UNESCO ainsi que les initiatives et les contributions constructives en qualité de Vice-Présidente du Conseil exécutif et de Présidente du Groupe arabe, saura contribuer au succès des travaux de la Conférence générale, au cours de laquelle une nouvelle Directrice générale doit être élue et à laquelle elle-même participera à ce titre pour la dernière fois.

25. The representative of Bangladesh said that he wished to offer hearty congratulations to Ms Alaoui on her nomination. Leading the work of 195 Member States in that key governing body would be a challenging task and Ms Alaoui could rest assured of Bangladesh’s support and cooperation.

26. Le représentant de la France s’associe aux précédentes interventions pour féliciter Mme Alaoui de sa nomination à la présidence de la Conférence générale et lui présenter tous ses vœux de succès au nom de la délégation française.

27. La représentante de la Côte d’Ivoire se réjouit de la nomination de Mme Alaoui et félicite chaleureusement cette dernière, persuadée que, forte de son expérience diplomatique, elle occupera la fonction dont elle est investie avec compétence.

اجملموعة العربية على اختيار سفرية املغرب رئيسة قطرممثل أهن ٢٨لتوفيق يف امتمنيا هلا و ،هتا القياديةابكفاء للمؤمتر العام يف دورته املقبلة، مشيدا

تلك املهمة اجلليلة.(28) Le représentant du Qatar félicite le Groupe arabe suite à la nomination de l’Ambassadrice du Maroc comme Présidente de la 39e session de la Conférence générale, saluant les compétences de l’Ambassadrice du Maroc en matière de direction et lui souhaitant plein succès dans sa noble tâche.

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29. The representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran said that he wished to congratulate Ms Alaoui on her nomination. Since the newly-nominated Director-General of UNESCO and the newly-nominated President of the 39th session of the General Conference were both female, the Organization would not have to worry about gender equality.

30. The representative of Nepal joined the other Members of the Board in congratulating Ms Alaoui and assured her of Nepal’s support. She also thanked the outgoing President of the General Conference –over the past two years, he had performed very well in that role and also as chairperson of the working group on governance.

31.1 The Chairperson said that under 201 EX/Decision 20.IV the Board was recommending to the General Conference the following candidates for the offices of chairpersons of the commissions and committees of the 39th session of the General Conference: Chairperson of the ED Commission, Mr George Imbanga Godia (Kenya – Group V(a)); Chairperson of the SC Commission, Mr Mustafa El Tayeb (Sudan – Group V(b)); Chairperson of the SHS Commission, Mr Milan Konvit (Slovakia – Group II); Chairperson of the CLT Commission, Ms Vincenza Lomonaco (Italy – Group I); Chairperson of the CI Commission, Mr Martin Hadlow (Australia – Group IV); Chairperson of the APX Commission, Ms Lorena Sol de Pool (El Salvador – Group III); Chairperson of the Credentials Committee, Mr José Antonio Rodriguez Duvergé (Dominican Republic – Group III); Chairperson of the Nominations Committee, Ms Samira Al Moosa (Oman – Group V(b)); and Chairperson of the Legal Committee, Mr Pierre Michel Eisemann (France – Group I). As the candidate proposed by Slovakia had been required to perform other duties, the Vice-Chairperson of Group II had informed the Bureau that Slovakia was recommending Mr Milan Konvit to chair the SHS Commission, a recommendation endorsed by the Bureau.

31.2 If he heard no objection, he would take it that the Board wished to submit the recommendations for the chairpersons of the commissions and committees of the 39th session to the General Conference.


33. The Chairperson recalled that, pursuant to Rule 35 of the Rules of Procedure of the General Conference, the Executive Board could recommend nominations for the posts of up to 36 Vice-Presidents of the General Conference and that the Nominations Committee would then determine and submit to the General Conference a list of nominations for these posts. He invited the Secretary of the General Conference to read out the current list of nominations.

34. La Secrétaire donne lecture de la liste des États membres proposés pour les postes de Vice-Présidents de la Conférence générale : l’Autriche, le Canada, le Danemark, les Pays-Bas, l’Espagne et la Suède pour le Groupe I ; l’Azerbaïdjan, la Lettonie et la Serbie pour le Groupe II ; la Colombie, l’Équateur, la Grenade et Saint-Vincent-et-les Grenadines pour le Groupe III ; l’Australie, le Bangladesh, la Chine, l’Indonésie, les Philippines et le Turkménistan pour le Groupe IV ; le Cameroun, Maurice, le Mozambique, la République démocratique du Congo, le Rwanda et le Togo pour le Groupe V(a) ; et Bahreïn, l’Iraq, le Koweït, la Palestine, la Tunisie et le Yémen pour le Groupe V(b).

35. The Chairperson said that if he heard no objection, he would take it that the Board wished to submit to the General Conference the recommendations for nomination to the offices of Vice-President of the 39th session.


Item 27.IV: Admission to the 39th session of the General Conference of observers from non-governmental organizations (other than those in official partnership with UNESCO), foundations and similar institutions maintaining official relations with UNESCO, as well as from other international organizations (202 EX/27 Part IV)

Draft decision in paragraph 6 of document 202 EX/27 Part IV

37. Le Sous-Directeur général pour les relations extérieures et l’information du public (ADG/ERI) dit que l’admission à la 39e session de la Conférence générale d’observateurs d’organisations non gouvernementales autres que celles qui entretiennent des relations officielles de partenariat avec l’UNESCO, ainsi que de fondations et d’autres institutions similaires entretenant des relations officielles avec l’UNESCO, est strictement réglementée et soumise à l’approbation de la Conférence générale sur recommandation du Conseil exécutif. Ainsi, le Conseil est appelé à examiner la liste des fondations et institutions similaires entretenant des relations officielles avec l’Organisation, qui figure à l’annexe I du document 202 EX/27 Partie IV, et la liste des ONG ne bénéficiant pas du statut de partenaire officiel de l’UNESCO, qui figure à l’annexe II du même document. Ces ONG, désignées en consultation avec les secteurs de programme et brièvement présentées à l’annexe III du document à titre d’information, suivent depuis de nombreuses années les travaux de l’UNESCO et ont déjà participé aux sessions de la Conférence générale, ou bien soutiennent des activités qui relèvent des domaines de compétence de l’UNESCO en coopération avec les secteurs, et pourraient devenir partenaires officiels sous peu. L’ADG/ERI rappelle que, conformément à sa décision 125 EX/6.2 le Conseil examine ces listes dans leur intégralité et prend une décision d’ensemble consistant à recommander ou à ne pas recommander à la Conférence générale d’admettre ces observateurs.

38. La représentante de la Côte d’Ivoire souhaite savoir sur quels critères sont sélectionnées les organisations invitées à la Conférence générale en qualité d’observateurs, et si les États membres sont consultés à cet égard.

39. Le Sous-Directeur général pour les relations extérieures et l’information du public (ADG/ERI) répond que ce sont ces organismes eux-mêmes qui soumettent une demande en ce sens au Secrétariat de l’UNESCO.

40. La Directrice générale précise que les ONG en question ont un statut d’observateur auprès de l’UNESCO et peuvent demander à ce titre à participer à la Conférence générale.

41. Le représentant de la France estime que les associations considérées, qui représentent le monde de la société civile et aident l’UNESCO à remplir son mandat, doivent être encouragées à se rapprocher de l’Organisation, étant entendu que le Secrétariat examine chacune d’entre elles autant que possible. Il connaît bien

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à titre personnel l’ICONEM, qui accomplit un excellent travail dans le domaine de la protection du patrimoine archéologique et culturel, la Fondation Prince Claus, qui œuvre également dans le domaine du patrimoine aux Pays-Bas, ou encore l’Association de droit international, autant d’organisations qui méritent à ses yeux d’être associées aux travaux de l’UNESCO. Il y voit un moyen de rayonnement pour l’Organisation, une façon d’être à l’écoute et d’encourager la société civile dans ce qu’elle fait d’admirable.

42. Le Président souscrit aux propos du représentant de la France, ajoutant que l’étroite collaboration qu’entretient l’UNESCO avec la société civile, qu’il s’agisse de partenaires officiels ou non, constitue une particularité au sein du système des Nations Unies.

43. La représentante de la Côte d’Ivoire dit avoir soulevé la question pour appeler l’attention sur le Réseau de fondations et institutions de recherche pour la promotion d’une culture de la paix en Afrique, créé avec le soutien de l’UNESCO et de l’Union africaine et présidé par l’Angola, et qui aurait selon elle toute sa place parmi les organisations citées dans le document examiné.

44. Accueillant favorablement la proposition de la Côte d’Ivoire, la Directrice générale dit qu’il en est pris bonne note et que le Secrétariat examinera la procédure à suivre à cet égard.

45. Le Président propose au Conseil exécutif, s’il n’y voit aucune objection, d’approuver le projet de décision qui figure au paragraphe 6 du document 202 EX/27 Partie IV en prenant note de la proposition de la Côte d’Ivoire.

46. Il en est ainsi décidé.

Item 27.V: Venue of the 40th session of the General Conference (202 EX/27 Part V)

Draft decision in paragraph 5 of document 202 EX/27 Part V

47. The Chairperson said that if he heard no objection, he would take it that the Board wished to adopt the draft decision in paragraph 5 of document 202 EX/27 Part V.



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ELEVENTH MEETING

Wednesday 18 October 2017 at 10.15 a.m.


ADOPTION OF DRAFT DECISIONS RECOMMENDED TO THE EXECUTIVE BOARD (continued)

Finance and Administrative (FA) Commission: reports and decisions recommended to the Executive Board (202 EX/49)


Item 4.II: Budgetary situation of the Organization for 2016-2017 (38 C/5 approved as adjusted) as at 30 June 2017; Budget adjustments arising from donations and special contributions received and Management Chart for Programme Execution in 2016-2017 (38 C/5 approved as adjusted) Status as at 30 June 2017 (202 EX/4 Part II; 202 EX/4.INF.2)



Item 5.III: Management issues (202 EX/5 Part III)

Item 5.III.A: Implementation of the Participation Programme and Emergency Assistance


Item 5.III.D: UNESCO Security and Safety Action Plan


Item 5.III.E: Implementation of the action plan for improved management of extrabudgetary funds (202 EX/5.INF.2)


Item 5.III.F: Report on the implementation on invest for Efficient Delivery (202 EX/5.INF.4)


Item 5.III.G: Review of Cost recovery policy (202 EX/5.INF.3)

Item 5.III.G.1: Proposal for a policy of interest retention


Item 5.III.G.2: Proposal for a differential rate policy for management cost rates


Item 5.IV: Human resources issues (202 EX/5 Part IV and Addenda)

Item 5.IV.A: Use of non-staff contracts including consultants in 2016


Item 5.IV.B: Human Resources Management Strategy


Item 5.IV.C: Progress of the After-Service Health Insurance (ASHI) working group and its recommendations


Item 17: Category 1 institutes and centres (202 EX/17)


Item 18: Category 2 institutes and centres

Item 18.I: Renewals and reviews of category 2 institutes and centres (202 EX/18 Part I and Corr. and Addenda)

Item 18.I.A: I. International Centre on Space Technologies for Cultural and Natural Heritage; and II. Regional Centre on Urban Water Management (RCUWM)


Item 18.I.C: I. Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage (ARC-WH) in Bahrain; II. Regional Heritage Management Training Centre in Brazil; and III. International Research Centre for Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Asia and the Pacific Region (IRCI) in Japan


Item 18.I Add.: I. Regional Centre for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage in South-Eastern Europe in Bulgaria; and II. International Information and Networking Centre for Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Asia and the Pacific Region (ICHCAP) in the Republic of Korea


Item 18.I Add.2: Asia-Pacific Centre of Education for International Understanding (APCEIU) in the Republic of Korea


Item 18.II: Establishment in Mexico of a regional centre on water security (CERSHI) (202 EX/18 Part II)


Item 18.III: Establishment in the Netherlands of an institute for water education (IHE) (202 EX/18 Part III)


Item 18.IV: Establishment in Ukraine of the junior academy of sciences (202 EX/18 Part IV)


Item 18.V: Establishment in Ghana of an institute of mathematical sciences (202 EX/18 Part V)


Item 18.VI: Establishment in the Russian Federation of an international competence centre for mining-engineering education (202 EX/18 Part VI and Corr.)


Item 18.VIII: Establishment in Iran of an international centre for health-related basic science and human nutrition (202 EX/18 Part VIII)


Item 18.IX: Establishment in India of an international training centre on operational oceanography within the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) (202 EX/18 Part VIII)


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Item 18.X: Establishment in Kazakhstan of an international centre for the rapprochement of cultures (202 EX/18 Part X)


Item 18.XI: Establishment in Austria of an international centre for the promotion of human rights at the local and regional levels (202 EX/18 Part XI)


Item 18.XIII: Establishment in Indonesia of a regional centre for human evolution, adaptations and dispersals in Southeast Asia (CHEADSEA) (202 EX/18 Part XIII)


Item 18.XIV: Establishment in China of a centre for teacher education at Shanghai Normal University (202 EX/18 Part XIV)


Item 18.XV: Establishment in the Republic of Korea of a centre for documentary heritage (202 EX/18 Part XV)


Item 18.XVI: Establishment in China of an Associated Schools Project network (ASPnet) international centre (202 EX/18 Part XVI)


Item 28: Report by the Director-General as at 31 May 2017 on the implementation of the recommendations of the External Auditor and his comments thereon (202 EX/28; 202 EX/28.INF)


Item 29: Financial report and audited consolidated financial statements relating to the accounts of UNESCO for the year ending 31 December 2016 and report by the External Auditor (202 EX/29 Parts I and II; 202 EX/29.INF ; 202 EX/29.INF.2)


Item 30: Financial Regulations of Special Accounts (202 EX/30 Parts I and II)

Item 30.I


Item 30.II


Item 31: Collection of Member States’ Contributions and cashflow implications

Item 31.I: Report by the Director-General on the Collection of Member States’ contributions (202 EX/31 Part I)


Item 31.II: Report by the Director-General on the current situation and contingency plan (202 EX/31 Part II)


Item 32: New audits by the External Auditor

Item 32.I: Audit report on the mobilization of extrabudgetary resources (202 EX/32.Part I; 202 EX/32.INF)


Item 32.II: Audit report on the Culture Sector (202 EX/32 Part II; 202 EX/32.INF.2)


Item 32.III: Audit report on the Medical Benefits Fund and the UNESCO Medical Service (202 EX/32 Part III; 202 EX/32.INF.3)


Item 34: Report by the Director-General, in cooperation with the Headquarters Committee, on managing the UNESCO complex (202 EX/34; 202 EX/34.INF)


Item 35: Report by the Director-General on the activities of the Advisory Committee for Works of Art (202 EX/35)


1.1 Ms Sol de Pool (El Salvador) (Chairperson of the Finance and Administrative Commission) in extenso:

Mr President of the General Conference, Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General, distinguished Members of the Executive Board, Excellencies, dear colleagues and friends, it gives me great pleasure to submit to this plenary meeting of the 202nd session of the Executive Board the report on the work of the fourth Finance and Administrative Commission (FA) meeting of this biennium. The FA Commission examined a total of 11 items and took the impressive number of 39 decisions in the course of six sessions. These draft decisions can be found following paragraph 1 of document 202 EX/49. Thanks to the very efficient work of the members of the Commission, whom I commend, we were able to do without late evening and night meetings. My intention here is to highlight the most salient aspects of our debates, which, I am pleased to report, took place in the climate of consensus, which we cherish in this Organization. While I have done my best to include the most critical elements of our discussions, I should like to apologize in advance in case I have inadvertently omitted something important.

1.2 Dear colleagues, I shall now proceed in the order in which the items were examined. The works of the Commission started with item 4 “Execution of the programme adopted by the General Conference – II. Budgetary situation of the Organization for 2016-2017 (38 C/5 approved as adjusted) as at 30 June 2017”. The majority of the 12 members who took the floor acknowledged the quality and clarity of the document, and requested further explanations on management of unfunded risks including tax reimbursement, and their impact on the budget of the Organization, as well as on statutory salary increases and implementation rate of extrabudgetary projects. The representative of the Director-General explained that unfunded risks, whether foreseen as the lapse factor or those that arose from emerging needs, were financed from restriction of budget of vacant posts. She noted that around 50% to 60% was retained from vacancies during this biennium and not distributed. The contingency plan had an impact on the

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last quarter of the biennium. Regarding the reimbursement of United States taxes to staff members included in the unfunded risks, it was mentioned that the tax reimbursement agreement had been signed in 2010 and UNESCO had received reimbursement up to and including 2013. However, in 2016, the United States of America had informed UNESCO that they considered the reimbursement of these taxes as a contribution to the Organization and therefore suspended such payments. In that regard, the External Auditor recommended that a provision be duly made in the 2016 financial statements against that liability. It was to be noted that the governing bodies had also necessitated an unfunded risk provision, which was currently at $353,000. That was due to unbudgeted costs for the intersessional meetings of the Members of the Executive Board and of the working group on governance.

1.3 In reply to a question on the statutory salary increases, notably at the field level, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) explained that they were budgeted under Part V and were transferred to other parts of the budget as they arose when the International Civil Service Commission (ICSC) periodically reviewed and updated the salary scales. Under 38 C/Resolution 88, the Director-General was required to comply with that United Nations practice, and the amount in question was modest in relation to the overall field budget.

1.4 Regarding the implementation rates, the Secretariat explained that the extrabudgetary expenditure rate of 43% against a target of 50% had improved compared to the previous period by four points. One member stressed the importance of adding a qualitative approach to figures: while there was a decrease in self-benefiting activities in Brazil, it was essentially due to exchange rate fluctuations.

1.5 When members requested clarification on cost recovery of regular programme staff, and residual reserve of the Special Account for Management Costs (previously FITOCA), the Secretariat explained that the figure of $12.1 million was based on an increase in the last six months but still remained a projection. Once the final figure was known at the end of 2017, Member States could then discuss at the 204th session of the Executive Board how the additional funds in that reserve could be used within the context of the contingency plan for document 39 C/5, based on a decision of the General Conference at its 39th session.

1.6 With respect to the concern of one speaker on the insufficient level of cost recovery of regular programme staff time, it was noted that the recovery had increased significantly and that measures had been taken to further improve this by training, revision of guidelines and improved reporting. The concern was reflected in the approved decision, even though one member requested that I note in my oral report that the proposed specific amendment did not add value to the debate and should have been addressed under other agenda items.

1.7 When turning to item 5.III.A “Implementation of the Participation Programme and Emergency Assistance”, the Commission unanimously recognized the great importance and impact of that programme for many Member States, and expressed in general their satisfaction at the management of this programme. Of the 10 members who took the floor, several expressed their concern about the planned reduction of the Participation Programme budget for 2018-2019 and requested that the

budget be maintained at its current level. In referring to the recent natural disasters in the Caribbean region, four members highlighted the importance of the emergency assistance funds for the affected countries but regretted that those funds were not sufficient. Two members stressed the importance of compliance of the financial reports with the requirements set out in the pertinent resolutions on the Participation Programme, and insisted on the need for Member States to make greater efforts in that respect in order to ensure the sustainability of the programme. One member inquired about the low number of approved projects for the Arab region. Four members emphasized the need for Member States to enhance capacity building through dedicated training sessions, and it was suggested that the issue be raised at the upcoming interregional meeting of National Commissions. The Secretariat referred to the recent training by videoconferences organized thanks to the support of Germany and the Republic of Korea.

1.8 Item 5.III.D “UNESCO Security and Safety Action Plan” was considered by the Commission without debate, as proposed by the plenary, and the decision approved with no amendments.

1.9 During the examination of item 5.III.E, “Implementation of the action plan for improved management of extrabudgetary funds”, of the seven representatives who took the floor, several voiced concerns over the decrease of the volume of voluntary contributions and stressed the need to examine the root causes and possible solutions put forward in the External Auditor’s report. One member asked for clarification about the 3% increase in the volume of funds mobilized given the fact that cash receipts decreased from virtually all categories of donors. Specific reference was made to the decrease in funding from the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) managed by the World Bank. One member questioned whether UNESCO was ready for the structured financing dialogues. Another member expressed belief in the integrated budget and structured financing dialogues, and was pleased to note the Secretariat’s intention to engage with donors through large-scale projects. Regarding the structured financing dialogues taking place at regional and sub-regional meetings and fora, one speaker voiced concern about coherence and the need for a “One UNESCO” approach. The Secretariat confirmed that structured financing dialogues could not be seen as a “cure all”, and that it should be rather understood as a framework and working method, setting up the principles of resource mobilization for achieving better alignment of resources to the Organization’s needs. While one member welcomed the comprehensive nature of the resource mobilization strategy and noted the consistency between the various documents before the Executive Board relating to resource mobilization, another speaker considered the resource mobilization action plans as being too theoretical. Lessons learnt from the previous resource mobilization strategy should be embedded in the current strategy. The Secretariat reassured members that key issues from earlier resource mobilization strategies, as well as the External Auditors’ report and the internal audit carried out by IOS, would be captured in the updated strategy. Another member highlighted the reference to the lessons learned from the Malaysia-UNESCO Programme on South-South Cooperation. The concern expressed by several members on the reasons for evaluation reports of extrabudgetary projects not meeting quality standards was reflected in the draft decision. Another speaker

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pointed out the need to include a dashboard on extrabudgetary resources in the UNESCO Transparency Portal and to clarify the respective roles and responsibilities of the Bureau of Strategic Planning (BSP) and Bureau of Financial Management (BFM) in the resource mobilization function, with a view to creating a one-stop-shop for donors. It was also mentioned that it was necessary to develop attractive thematic windows and to scale up success stories so as to increase the volume of extrabudgetary funds. A question was also raised as to how ethics would be embedded in partnerships with new donors.

1.10 Eight members took part in the discussion on item 5.III.F “Report on the implementation on Invest for Efficient Delivery”. They expressed their general satisfaction with the report and its consistent format, and stressed the importance of investment in human capital and ICTs. At the same time, one speaker believed that progress on the implementation of some projects was rather slow, and another requested more information on benefits, as well as on the succession planning framework and on the procurement process for the projects. Several other representatives stressed the importance of measuring progress against targets and analysing impact and return on investment. The importance of training in resource mobilization, both at Headquarters and in the field, was emphasized, while a speaker regretted the fact that there had been no funds allocated for training under the regular programme since 2012. In his reply, the Deputy Director-General explained that it was often difficult to measure return on investment, in particular in training, and that the objective of the plan was improving performance, rather than monetary gains. With regard to the procurement process, he reassured the Commission that the competitive procedures were closely monitored by the Contracts Committee. Moreover, the very nature of procurement at UNESCO makes it much less risky than in some other agencies. One speaker believed that information technology solutions should be flexible and accessible, contributing to staff mobility. Additional information was requested on the linkage between the core systems redesign project and the recommendations of the Executive Board’s working group on governance. One speaker enquired about the level of security of UNESCO’ information systems.

1.11 We then turned to the examination of item 5.III.G “Review of cost-recovery policy”. The first part of the document was devoted to the proposal for a policy of interest retention. While agreeing with the principle of full retention of interest, five members and one observer who took the floor raised concerns on the application of the policy, and asked if consultations had been held with donors. They indicated that the ultimate choice should be left in the hands of the donor. The provision that exceptions can be granted by the Director-General raised some scepticism as no criteria were provided in the document. The representative of the Director-General noted that the current policy provided for partial retention of interest and that the proposal would bring a harmonized approach to the application of interest retained. With respect to consultation, she noted that it had begun with discussions with the top 20 donors. With regard to the concern on exceptions to be approved by the Director-General, she mentioned that it was in line with the policies of other United Nations organizations. She stressed that the application of the policy would begin with new agreements, which would require consultation with the relevant donors. The decision was approved with an

amendment stating that the implementation of the policy of retaining full interest on voluntary contributions should only be applied on the provision that there was consent from the donor. One member raised concern on the impact of the proposed policy on the sustainability of the Brasilia Office and noted that the explanation provided in the document should be reflected in the decision.

1.12 Closely connected was the discussion of the proposal for a differential rate policy for management cost rates. All nine speakers who took the floor suggested that more time and consultation was required to study carefully the details and impact of the new proposed policy, before it was formally approved by the Executive Board. In particular, several members expressed their concern with regard to the proposal of maintaining the 13% programme support costs (PSC) rate for contributions to funds-in-trust projects that were below $250,000, including for self-benefiting activities. It was suggested that this could penalize some small donors that wished to provide financial support to UNESCO. Thus, a different modality should be explored for receiving contributions to avoid too high indirect costs for small donors while at the same time reducing reporting requirements to lower the administrative burden for the Secretariat. The proposed rate of 13% for contributions to prizes was also questioned by several members for similar reasons.

1.13 With regard to the new rate of 7% proposed for all Special Accounts, several members asked whether the relevant statutory bodies and donors had been duly consulted on the feasibility of such proposed revision, which in some cases constituted an important increase of the rate. In that respect, reference was made by several speakers to the Headquarters Utilization Fund (HQF) and one member requested that I reflect in my oral report that the amendment in the decision that requests further consultations specifically include consultations with the Headquarters Committee and relevant governing bodies. The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) noted that the application of the PSC rate for the Headquarters Utilization Fund would replace the direct costs charged currently for staff in functions classified as management under the adopted UNESCO cost-recovery policy. In general, more information on the impact of the proposed policy would be required. Some members indicated it would be useful for the Secretariat to present different options for consideration. The reasons and criteria for exceptions also made the proposed policy unclear. On the other hand, it was also stressed that the new policy had to be in full alignment with those of other United Nations agencies and in particular with the quadrennial comprehensive policy review (QCPR) recommendations, notably with regard to the principle of full cost recovery. The Secretariat recalled the overall objective of the policy was to make UNESCO more competitive, notably at field level, while at the same time reducing the administrative burden through incentives for donors to provide more substantial financial contributions for larger projects. The Secretariat acknowledged the suggestions for improvement expressed by the Member States notably on alignment with other United Nations agencies, on the provision of additional information on the impact of the new rates, and the importance of conducting a consultation process with all bodies concerned, in particular for statutory Special Accounts, as well as donors, to receive their inputs on the application of the proposed new policy.

1.14 The Commission then started examining item 5.IV “Human resources issues”. The two unions,

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UNESCO Staff Union (STU) and International Staff Association of UNESCO (ISAU) had been authorized to take the floor on this item. Concerning item 5.IV.A “Use of non-staff contracts including consultants in 2016”, preoccupation was expressed about the constant increase, over the past five years, of the use of consultants in conjunction with the reduction of regular programme staff. Moreover, the duration of consultant contracts was relatively short, possibly endangering business continuity. One speaker also referred to the recommendations of the United Nations Joint Inspection Unit (JIU) report, which were applicable to UNESCO, notably in connection with a vision for reduced reliance on non-staff. The Secretariat recalled that, compared to other United Nations organizations, UNESCO had quite a good ratio of fixed contracts against temporary staff. The Commission’s main remark concerned the geographical distribution of such contracts, and the constant high percentage from electoral Group I. The Director of the Bureau of Human Resources Management (DIR/HRM) recalled that the policy provided that non-staff should be hired locally, but agreed that more diversification had to be sought. In reply to the question on transparency of the recruitment process, the policy set was for procedures that provided for fairness. The idea of a house-wide register or a roster for consultants was welcome.

1.15 Turning to item 5.IV.B “Human Resources Management Strategy”, ten speakers wished to take the floor. Several members of the Commission raised the issue of geographical representation, and the need to step up efforts to improve the situation. Some speakers stressed that the issue should not only be looked at globally but also by level and grade, as some regional groups appeared to have a higher proportion of junior-level staff. Members of the Commission asked about the Young Professionals Programme (YPP) and the Secretariat confirmed that it would be launched soon. It was also confirmed that targets in terms of geographical distribution and gender would be set for sector assistant directors-general (ADGs) and directors of bureaus, and that those would be monitored with scorecards.

1.16 Two representatives reiterated their request that the terminology used in the UNESCO Priority Gender Equality Action Plan for 2014-2021 (GEAP II) be updated, so that the term “under-represented sex” be used in lieu of men and women. On the same issue, given that the Secretariat had reached gender parity at almost all levels, the suggestion was made that a maximum cap be set for the percentage of a gender, such as 60%. The Secretariat confirmed that it would adjust the terminology in the Action Plan.

1.17 Mobility was highlighted as a key issue for staff and the Secretariat was asked if targets would be set for sector assistant directors-general (ADGs) for the mobility of their staff. The Director of the Bureau of Human Resources Management (DIR/HRM) confirmed that it was already foreseen in the implementation plan. The need for career development, particularly at the junior levels, and the need for continuous staff development, were also highlighted by a number of members of the Commission.

1.18 On performance management, a speaker expressed concern that heads of field offices had no performance objectives. He also suggested that UNESCO accelerated the frequency of its performance assessments, from biennial to at least annual, in line with good practice. The Secretariat specified that heads of field offices did have performance objectives, and recalled that

the objective on performance assessments was to ensure a high level of performance of staff. The policy would be reviewed in 2018, and annual evaluations introduced. In the review of the decision, there was an intense debate to reflect the need of the review of the progress and follow-up steps in terms of geographical distribution, as well as updating the Bureau of Human Resources Management (HRM) strategy and the geographic distribution action plan for 2017-2022 on an ongoing basis.

1.19 Item 5.IV.C was devoted to “Progress of the After-Service Health Insurance (ASHI) working group and its recommendations”. One member welcomed the eight recommendations made by the working group, and pointed out that, in connection with the fourth recommendation on the use of national schemes, the staff and particularly the retirees should be guaranteed good coverage wherever they were. A cost benefit analysis should be performed to assess the viability of the proposal. Another member queried whether UNESCO was bound by the conclusions of the working group. The Secretariat replied that UNESCO would only adopt the recommendations that would be advantageous for UNESCO’s Fund.

1.20 Twelve members of the Commission and three observers took the floor on item 17 “Category 1 institutes and centres” concerning the management of education-related category 1 institutes. Some requested further clarifications on the consultation process between UNESCO and the institutes. One member inquired why the statutes of the institutes should be aligned when they themselves differed in size, scope and mandate. Concerns continued to exist on the linkages between the human resources appointments and the functional autonomy of the institutes. Efficiency and programmatic quality needed to be preserved. Some members commended the work of institutes, particularly the UNESCO International Institute for Educational Planning (IIEP) and the UNESCO International Institute for Capacity-Building in Africa (IICBA). One member gave a brief overview of the revitalization of the UNESCO Institute for Information Technologies in Education (IITE), mentioning that the host country had doubled its contribution the previous year, and gave his support to the reform proposed. Speaking as an observer, the representative of the IIEP Governing Board said that the Board had not been given sufficient time to consult the proposed revised Statutes of IIEP. Several members suggested that consultations should continue, and that the item be postponed to the 204th session of the Executive Board. Two members highlighted the importance of reform and urged that the proposal be looked at within the wider United Nations system reform, especially given the financial crisis at UNESCO. The Secretariat highlighted that those proposals were part of the large-scale reform exercise which Member States had asked UNESCO to carry out, and that human resources management and the Statutes were two different issues that should be looked at separately, emphasizing that the Statutes did not attempt to clarify or diminish functional autonomy on human resources. Reference was made to the recommendations (yet to be approved by the General Conference) of the working group on governance, procedures and working methods of the governing bodies, which called for ‘harmonization and updating of statutes’. During the discussion of the decision, one speaker proposed to add reference to the fact that the reform of the institutes should strengthen their input into the formulation and realization of UNESCO’s programme,

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enhance the contribution of UNESCO to the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and take into account the wider United Nations reform. However, considering that the reform had been postponed, that paragraph was premature.

1.21 When examining item 18 “Category 2 institutes and centres”, the Commission first approved each of the decisions proposed for the 14 sub-items notably in connection with the establishment of 13 category 2 centres. I must admit that this was quite a marathon challenging my reading skills, but all decisions were adopted without amendment. Fifteen members took the floor to briefly present the respective category 2 centres under renewal or establishment.

1.22 Item 34 “Report by the Director-General, in cooperation with the Headquarters Committee, on managing the UNESCO complex” had been proposed by the plenary for consideration with no debate. We had the honour of hearing the presentation by my dear friend, H.E. Mr Zainal, Ambassador of Qatar, Chairperson of the Headquarters Committee.

1.23 The consideration of item 35 “Report by the Director-General on the activities of the Advisory Committee for Works of Art” did not generate debate. However, one observer made a statement to express serious concern and dissatisfaction over the work of the Advisory Committee for Works of Art (ACWA) and the Secretariat in handling donations to the Organization, for the lack of transparency, professionalism and consistency. He requested that the Executive Board consider thoroughly reviewing the process for the approval of donation of work of arts.

1.24 The Commission turned its attention to item 30 “Financial Regulations of Special Accounts”, parts I and II. One member requested clarification on Article 10.2 of the Financial Regulations of the Special Account for Branding and Merchandising Partnerships, and in particular on the lack of mention of consultation with donors on the balance, as was the case for other Special Accounts. It was confirmed that that Special Account was one of revenue-generating nature, and no donations were received. Therefore, consultation with donors was not relevant and any remaining funds were to be transferred to the General Fund (GEF).

1.25 Regarding the Special Account for the International Hydrological Programme (IHP), one member wanted to know how the proposed third main line of action (MLA) in science would fit into that Special Account. The representative of the Director-General confirmed that there was no relation between the new MLA and the Special Account. The MLA addressed how the programme would be conceived in UNESCO while the Special Account was dedicated to reinforce activities under SDG 6 using extrabudgetary funds.

1.26 Item 30.II concerned financial regulations for the Special Accounts in support to the C/5 document. Members inquired how contributions would be reflected in the UNESCO Transparency Portal in particular. The links between resource mobilization performance and sectors’ motivation to fill the gap were raised, as well as contributions for transversal activities and self-benefitting initiatives.

1.27 Item 31 “Collection of Member States’ Contributions and cash flow implications” generated no question from members. In the consideration of the

decision, it was proposed to hold a strategic discussion in the Executive Board before the preparation for document 40 C/5 about the overall financial situation of UNESCO.

1.28 The Commission then turned its attention to item 32 “New audits by the External Auditor” and welcomed Mr Didier Migaud, First President of the Cours des Comptes, and his team. Mr Migaud gave members a detailed presentation of the three parts which made up item 32. His presentation also included item 29 “Financial report and audited consolidated financial statements relating to the accounts of UNESCO for the year ending 31 December 2016 and report by the External Auditor”. Sixteen members took the floor and generally recognized that those reports were very helpful for the preparation of the Executive Board. They also expressed gratitude to the Cours des Comptes for their very important support to the improvement of the Organization’s performance.

1.29 With respect to Part I of the audit report on the mobilization of extrabudgetary resources, several members highlighted the importance of the integrated budget and structured financing dialogue in the mobilization of extrabudgetary resources, and considered that structured financing dialogue was not sufficiently reflected in the audit report. One member considered that the establishment of a new extrabudgetary resources directorate (ERD) was not cost effective in view of the associated costs, while other members considered on the contrary that such a directorate had to be placed at the highest levels of the Organization. The External Auditor reiterated his recommendation for the establishment of a new directorate, which already existed in other United Nations organizations, such as UNICEF, and which would have a crucial role in coordinating and bolstering the relations with the existing and potential external donors and partners. It would also help increase the importance of fund mobilization as an essential function for UNESCO. One member asked more details regarding the modalities for raising extrabudgetary resources and what risks were associated for the private sector. In general, members recognized that the private sector was vital in resource mobilization and considered that resources devoted to further developing the cooperation with that category of donors were insufficient. Two members expressed reservations in respect of recommendation No. 13 of the audit report regarding the role of National Commissions in fund raising and the fact that the report indicated that there could be competition between the National Commissions and the Secretariat. One member expressed reservations regarding the recommendation No. 21, which proposed the revision of the 2007 Directives to increase the Organization’s control over the use of its name and to assess, when such use was authorized, the corresponding risks and benefits. The External Auditor explained that UNESCO could be at risk for the use of its name/logo, and considered that its brand should be protected with access rights. One speaker requested that I reflect in my oral report his disagreement with recommendations No. 5 and No. 21, considering that they did not flow evidently from the findings and outcomes of the External Auditor’s report.

1.30 Part II of was devoted to the audit report on the Culture Sector. Recommendation No. 18 on the closure of 47 inactive projects raised some questions. In connection with a number of recommendations, one member wondered if the External Auditor had sufficiently taken into account the processes and responsibilities inside the Culture Sector. Another member stressed the importance of implementing all those recommendations, and notably

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those aiming at prioritizing and reducing fixed costs. Reference was also made to the increase of project appointments by 20% at Headquarters and by 100% in the field, and expressed preoccupation for the decrease in regular staff numbers and the possible consequence on the functioning of the Culture Sector. Several speakers seemed concerned by the finding on difficulties in the distribution of responsibilities between Headquarters and the field, notably for the Cuba office. Recommendation No. 6 on the closure of the International Fund for the Promotion of Culture (IFPC) generated quite a debate. Some speakers expressed their disagreement with that recommendation and asked whether the Governing Board of the Fund had been extensively consulted, and notably those Member States which had provided contributions. The Fund had generated very important results, and expectations were still present on its continuation. Another member found the recommendation sound. The External Auditor recalled that the Fund had received no contributions since 2006 and that the administrative costs represented half of its overall budget. He also indicated that the balance on the Fund would be used rapidly if it remained open without receiving funds since 2006.

1.31 Concerning the audit report on the Medical Benefits Fund and the UNESCO Medical Service, several members welcomed the 11 recommendations made by the External Auditor and were awaiting their implementation by the end of 2018. There was particular support for recommendation No. 2 that the term of the contract of the third-party administrator should be extended, to reduce the disruptions caused by the changeover to a new administrator. A question was asked what could be done to speed up the payments of reimbursements and the advantages of a complementary health insurance. The External Auditor suggested that electronic claims submission would be a more efficient process, which would facilitate faster payment of claims. He also suggested that UNESCO complete its negotiations regarding the complementary health insurance, as that would enable straight-through processing, ensure 100% hospital coverage for retirees particularly and thereby reduce the total claims processing time. One member expressed disagreement with recommendation No. 5 that the Medical Service should not provide medical services to delegations without cost, and asked what the costs to the Organization were. I was requested to reflect the disagreement in my oral report. Another member wished to mark support for the recommendation as it welcomed the External Auditor’s attention to the details of the rules. The External Auditor explained that although the cost was not great, there was no legal basis for the benefit and that the matter should therefore be clarified, by changing the rules and/or charging for the service, or by ceasing to provide it. With respect to the legal risks of implementing the recommendations, the External Auditor replied, referencing recommendation No. 1, and recalled the history of how the Fund had changed the rules relating to its governance structure following the recommendation of an external consultant and the decision of the General Conference in 2013. He recommended keeping the mutualist nature of the Fund, but implementing a mechanism to track the financial stability of the Fund and allow the Director-General to take action to correct any shortfalls if necessary.

1.32 When the room turned to item 29 “Financial report and audited consolidated financial statements relating to the accounts of UNESCO for the year ending

31 December 2016 and report by the External Auditor”, one member expressed concern over whether the Special Account reserve could be considered for internal borrowing. She also asked the Secretariat for some clarifications on the usage of financial income in the context of the budgetary shortfall. Finally, she expressed concern about the higher number of retirees compared to active staff within ASHI. The Secretariat replied that borrowing against internal reserves should be only for short-term needs (maximum three-month period) and for a limited amount (for Special Accounts a maximum of 50% of funds available could be borrowed and up to 12.5% for regular programme). Regarding the interest income, she explained that they were generated and treated in different ways, whether relating to regular programme or extrabudgetary funds. The Organization had a very prudent investment strategy with oversight provided by an investment committee. The External Auditor added that he had not found any irregularity within the treasury management and it was not in his mandate to give advice on treasury policy. Another member asked for clarification regarding the recommendation No. 13 about the reconciliation of the 605 items with the fixed assets physical inventory. The Secretariat replied that of the 605 items, 418 had already been reconciled.

1.33 The last item on the agenda was item 28 “Report by the Director-General as at 31 May 2017 on the implementation of the recommendations of the External Auditor and his comments thereon”. Some members expressed their concern on the issues highlighted by the External Auditor on the performance assessment of assistant directors-general (ADGs) and directors/heads of field offices; the mobility of staff; and the reporting lines of field offices and Headquarters. One member requested that the above concerns form part of my oral report. More information from the External Auditor was requested on those issues and the divergence of opinion between the Secretariat and the External Auditor was noted. In his response, the External Auditor first highlighted the important efforts made by the Secretariat to implement all recommendations. He confirmed the divergence of opinion with the Secretariat on the performance assessment of ADGs and directors, explaining that despite the existence of strategic documents with results indicators, job descriptions and mission letters, those documents, in his opinion, were too general to facilitate the assessment of performance. He also confirmed that in his opinion, as it was done for the Africa region, the relationship between field offices in the field network and Headquarters should be clarified in other regions. One member asked the Secretariat about the absence of costing the implementation of recommendations and commented on the importance of such costing for informed decision-making. The representative of the Director-General explained that the approach taken by the Secretariat was to decide on the implementation approach first and then the cost.

1.34 Mr Chairperson, dear colleagues, I have finally reached the end of my oral presentation. The draft decisions recommended to the plenary can be found in document 202 EX/49. I would like to thank all of you for your valuable participation and active contribution during intense but constructive and also future-oriented debates, which undoubtedly reflects on the interest in the work of our beloved Organization. In closing, I should like to say that I am of course indebted to many people. However, with your permission, Mr Chairperson, and an in order to save our precious time, I will express my thanks when I

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present my oral report on the items chaired by me in the joint meeting of the FA and PX Commissions. I thank you all for your attention and remain at your disposal to reply to any questions or comments.

2. The Chairperson recalled that, pursuant to Rule 47 of the Rules of Procedure of the Executive Board, the Board should adopt the entire set of draft decisions recommended by each plenary commission as a whole, unless a Board Member requested that a specific decision be adopted separately. Seeing no such request, he took it that the Board wished to adopt the entire set of draft decisions contained in document 202 EX/49.


4. The Chairperson complimented the Chairperson of the Finance and Administrative Commission (FA) on her fine leadership and excellent management of the Commission’s meetings.

Commission du programme et des relations extérieures (PX) : rapport et projets de décision recommandés au Conseil exécutif

Point 5 : Suivi des décisions et résolutions adoptées par le Conseil exécutif et la Conférence générale à leurs sessions antérieures

Point 5.I : Questions relatives au programme (202 EX/5 Partie I)

Point 5.I.A : Activités menées par l’UNESCO pour accroître les possibilités d’apprentissage offertes aux réfugiés et aux personnes déplacées à l'intérieur de leur propre pays

Point 5.I.B : Rôle de l'UNESCO en sa qualité d’organisation coparrainant ONUSIDA et Stratégie de l'UNESCO sur l'éducation pour la santé et le bien-être

Point 5.I.C : Activités de l’UNESCO relatives aux directives mondiales sur la lutte contre les violences liées au genre en milieu scolaire

Point 5.I.D : Efforts déployés par l’UNESCO pour promouvoir l’égalité des genres dans les domaines des sciences, de la technologie, de l’ingénierie et des mathématiques (STEM)

Point 5.I.E : Rapport d’étape de l’Institut de statistique de l'UNESCO sur la ventilation des données concernant les indicateurs de développement relatifs aux petits États insulaires en développement (PEID)

Point 5.I.F : Rapport de la Directrice générale sur la participation de l’UNESCO aux célébrations internationales du 150e anniversaire du tableau périodique des éléments chimiques en 2019

Point 5.I.G : Institutions culturelles et éducatives en Iraq

Point 5.I.H : Rapport sur la mise en œuvre de la Stratégie de renforcement de l’action de l’UNESCO en matière de protection de la culture et de promotion du pluralisme culturel en cas de conflit armé

Point 5.I.I : Statuts révisés de l’Alliance internationale pour la protection du patrimoine dans les zones en conflit (ALIPH)

Point 5.I.J : Proposition de stratégie et de plan d’action pour protéger et renforcer la reconnaissance de la marque des réserves de biosphère, des sites du

patrimoine mondial et des géoparcs mondiaux UNESCO (202 EX/5.INF)

Point 5.I.K : Rapport d’étape sur la sécurité des journalistes et la question de l’impunité

Point 5.I.L : Suivi de la situation en République autonome de Crimée (Ukraine)

Point 5.I.M : Programme global d’appui spécial post-conflit en faveur de la Côte d’Ivoire

Projets de décision figurant aux paragraphes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 et 14 du document 202 EX/50

Point 5.III : Questions relatives à la gestion (202 EX/5 Partie III)

Point 5.III.B : Application par l’UNESCO du Plan d'action à l'échelle du système des Nations Unies (ONU-SWAP) pour l'égalité des sexes et l'autonomisation des femmes

Projet de décision figurant au paragraphe 15 du document 202 EX/50

Point 6 : Coordination mondiale/régionale et soutien de l’UNESCO pour la mise en œuvre de l’ODD 4 – Éducation 2030 (202 EX/6)


Point 7 : Contribution de l’UNESCO à la prévention de l’extrémisme violent (202 EX/7)


Point 8 : Rapport d’étape sur l’élaboration d’un projet de convention sur la reconnaissance des qualifications de l’enseignement supérieur (202 EX/8)


Point 9 : Politique de l’UNESCO sur l'engagement auprès des peuples autochtones (202 EX/9)


Point 10 : Rapport de la Directrice générale sur l’élaboration d’un projet final de déclaration de principes éthiques en rapport avec le changement climatique (202 EX/10 et Corr. (arabe, chinois, espagnol et russe seulement))


Point 11 : Révision des statuts du Conseil intergouvernemental du Programme Gestion des transformations sociales (MOST) (202 EX/11)


Point 12 : Rapport sur la mise en œuvre de la Décennie internationale du rapprochement des cultures (2013-2022) (202 EX/12 ; 202 EX/12.INF)


Point 14 : Rapport sur la mise en œuvre du Programme Information pour tous (PIPT) (2016 2017) (202 EX/14)

202 EX/SR.1-12 page 101 – SR.11


Point 15 : Rapport final du Comité consultatif international sur l’examen du Programme Mémoire du monde (202 EX/15)


Point 16 : Reconduction de Prix UNESCO

Point 16.II : Reconduction du Prix international UNESCO-Grèce Mélina Mercouri pour la sauvegarde et la gestion des paysages culturels (202 EX/16 Partie II)


Point 36 : Propositions relatives à la célébration des anniversaires auxquels l’UNESCO pourrait être associée en 2018-2019, et recours présentés par les États membres à ce sujet (202 EX/36 ; 202 EX/36.INF)


Point 38 : Palestine occupée (202 EX/38 et Add.)


Point 39 : Application de la résolution 38 C/72 et de la décision 201 EX/31 concernant les institutions éducatives et culturelles dans les territoires arabes occupés (202 EX/39)


Point 40 : Association de l’UNESCO à l’initiative de l’Union internationale des architectes pour désigner les villes hôtes du Congrès de l’UIA prétendant au titre de Capitale mondiale de l’architecture (201 EX/40)


Point 42 : La mémoire de la glace : Un enjeu pour le futur (202 EX/42 ; 202 EX/DG.INF)


Point 43 : Proposition concernant la proclamation par l’Organisation des Nations Unies de 2019 Année internationale du tableau périodique des éléments chimiques (202 EX/43 ; 202 EX/DG.INF)


Point 44 : Le rôle de l’UNESCO dans la promotion de l’alphabétisation dans le cadre du Programme de développement durable à l’horizon 2030 (202 EX/44 et Add. Rev. ; 202 EX/DG.INF)


Point 45 : Affirmer le rôle de l’UNESCO en matière de tourisme durable pour le développement (202 EX/45 ; 202 EX/DG.INF)


5.1 M. Seddoh (Togo) (Président de la Commission du programme et des relations extérieures) in extenso :

Monsieur le Président, avant de vous faire part du rapport de notre Commission, nous voulons à l’avance présenter nos excuses aux membres du Conseil qui s’attendaient à un rapport oral court. Avec 34 points à l’ordre du jour, nous n’avons pas réussi à faire plus court, toutes nos excuses à l’avance. Monsieur le Président du Conseil exécutif, Monsieur le Président de la Conférence générale, Madame la Directrice générale, chers collègues, j’ai l’honneur de vous présenter les conclusions de la Commission du programme et des relations extérieures à la 202e session du Conseil exécutif de l’UNESCO. La Commission a adopté son calendrier tel que proposé. Elle a ensuite élu Monsieur Ebenezer Njoh Mouelle, distingué Représentant du Cameroun, comme Président temporaire. Durant cette session du Conseil exécutif, la Commission PX a examiné vingt points, dont un doté de quatorze sous-points, au cours de sept séances. Elle a également examiné quatre points conjointement avec la Commission financière et administrative. Le présent rapport oral couvre les points examinés en séance par la Commission PX et se concentre sur les débats et les observations des délégués. Les points sont présentés suivant l’ordre de nos débats, qui n’est pas nécessairement celui du calendrier de la Commission du programme et des relations extérieures que nous avons adopté le 11 octobre 2017.

5.2 Distingués collègues, Mesdames, Messieurs, les travaux de la Commission ont débuté par l’examen du point 4 Partie I concernant l’exécution du programme adopté par la Conférence générale. Comme je l’ai rappelé dans mon introduction sur ce point, le rapport en ligne préparé par le Secrétariat, conformément au document 195 EX/4 Partie V – PG/Rapport et en application de la décision 195 EX/4 (V) et de la résolution 38 C/99, visait à informer les membres du Conseil exécutif des progrès réalisés dans la mise en œuvre du programme adopté par la Conférence générale au cours des quarante-deux premiers mois de la période quadriennale 2014-2017.

5.3 La Commission en a pris note et nous avons poursuivi nos travaux avec l’examen conjoint des points 38 « Palestine occupée » et 39 « Application de la résolution 38 C/72 et de la décision 201 EX/31 concernant les institutions éducatives et culturelles dans les territoires arabes occupés ». Deux projets de décision (202 EX/PX/DR.38.2 et 202 EX/PX/DR.39.3) ont été soumis par le Président du Conseil exécutif à la suite d’intenses négociations qui avaient abouti à un consensus entre les parties concernées. À la suite de l’adoption des deux projets de décision à l’unanimité – ce qui ne s’était pas produit depuis 2011 – un certain nombre d’États membres et d’observateurs ont pris la parole pour souligner l’importance de l’adoption de ces décisions par consensus et ont souhaité que cela constitue un point de départ positif pour les négociations à venir en vue de leur examen par le Conseil à sa 204e session. Les intervenants ont rappelé la nécessité d’éviter toute politisation et de poursuivre un dialogue constructif entre les parties concernées basé sur un respect mutuel et ont souligné l’importance de mettre en œuvre des actions concrètes sur le terrain. Les décisions recommandées par la Commission sur les points 38 et 39 sont présentées aux paragraphes 27 et 28, respectivement, du rapport écrit.

5.4 La Commission a examiné ensuite le point 5 Partie I (A) « Activités menées par l’UNESCO pour

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accroître les possibilités d’apprentissage offertes aux réfugiés et aux personnes déplacées à l’intérieur de leur propre pays ». Onze États membres dont deux observateurs ont pris la parole pendant ce débat. Les intervenants se sont félicités du rapport et des réalisations accomplies malgré les contraintes budgétaires dans ce domaine de travail important pour l’Organisation. Un délégué a rappelé qu’il y avait en 2016 quelque 21,1 millions de personnes déplacées à travers le monde, d’où le rôle crucial des actions de l’UNESCO dans ce domaine. Plusieurs délégués ont souligné la nécessité de poursuivre le travail visant à accroître les possibilités de développement des compétences en vue de favoriser l'employabilité des personnes touchées par la crise, ainsi qu’à développer la capacité des systèmes éducatifs à offrir des possibilités d'apprentissage aux réfugiés et aux personnes déplacées. Le projet de recherche sur la gestion des enseignants dans les zones de réfugiés a été bien accueilli par certains États membres qui ont souhaité en recevoir les conclusions. Deux États membres ont souligné l'importance de mener des évaluations statistiques et de recourir à l’Observatoire mondial de la reconnaissance, de la validation et de l'accréditation (RVA) de l'apprentissage non formel et informel de l'Institut de l’UNESCO pour l’apprentissage tout au long de la vie (UIL) pour assurer des opportunités d'apprentissage aux personnes affectées par la crise. Deux États membres ont souligné la nécessité de garantir les droits et identités culturels des migrants. Enfin, un observateur a noté que les États membres devraient aider l'UNESCO à obtenir plus de ressources pour son action visant l'éducation des réfugiés et des personnes déplacées. Sur ce point, la Commission a recommandé la décision présentée au paragraphe 2 du rapport écrit.

5.5 Nous avons poursuivi nos travaux avec l’examen du point 5 Partie I (B) « Rôle de l’UNESCO en sa qualité d’organisation coparrainant ONUSIDA et Stratégie de l’UNESCO sur l’éducation pour la santé et le bien-être ». Ce point ayant été proposé sans débat, la Commission est passée directement à l’examen du projet de décision. La décision recommandée sur ce point figure au paragraphe 3 du rapport écrit.

5.6 Concernant le point 5 Partie I (C) « Activités de l’UNESCO relatives aux directives mondiales sur la lutte contre les violences liées au genre en milieu scolaire », dix-huit délégués ont pris la parole. Les délégués ont exprimé leur soutien à l’action de l'UNESCO dans ce domaine, ainsi que leur appréciation des « Orientations mondiales en matière de lutte contre la violence de genre en milieu scolaire » publiées conjointement avec ONU-Femmes. De nombreux États membres ont évoqué les mesures prises dans leur propre pays pour promouvoir des environnements d'apprentissage sûrs et reconnaître les besoins spécifiques des filles, et ont rappelé la menace que représentait la violence fondée sur le sexe pour une éducation de qualité. Certains États membres se sont félicités du travail effectué par l'UNESCO sur cette question en partenariat avec des entités pertinentes et des efforts continus déployés par le Groupe de travail des partenaires internationaux sur les violences liées au genre en milieu scolaire. Plusieurs délégués ont souligné le lien entre cette thématique et les cibles 4.7 et 4.8 de l’ODD 4. Des précisions ont été sollicitées concernant l'élaboration d'indicateurs pour mesurer les progrès accomplis par rapport à la violence liée au genre en milieu scolaire et une demande a été faite pour la traduction des « Orientations » en arabe et dans d'autres langues. Un pays a noté le lien entre ce domaine d'activité et la

décision de la 201e session du Conseil sur la violence et le harcèlement en milieu scolaire. Un autre pays a déclaré que, bien que les « Orientations » fournissent des éléments clés sur la manière de lutter contre la violence liée au genre en milieu scolaire, certaines sections du document étaient en désaccord avec leur législation nationale. Sur ce point, la Commission a recommandé la décision présentée au paragraphe 4 du rapport écrit.

5.7 La Commission a examiné ensuite le point 5 Partie I (D) « Efforts déployés par l’UNESCO pour promouvoir l’égalité des genres dans les domaines des sciences, de la technologie, de l’ingénierie et des mathématiques (STEM) ». Dix-huit délégués ont pris la parole sur ce point. Les délégués se sont félicités du rapport intitulé « Déchiffrer le code » et ont salué la coopération dans ce domaine entre le Secteur de l’éducation, le Secteur des sciences exactes et naturelles, le Bureau international de l’éducation, l’Institut international de l’UNESCO pour le renforcement des capacités en Afrique, l’Institut de statistique de l’Organisation et les bureaux hors Siège. De nombreux délégués ont mis en avant que les sciences, la technologie, l’ingénierie et les mathématiques (STEM) étaient un point important du Programme 2030, et ont souligné qu’en ce domaine, on ne pouvait pas laisser de côté les femmes, qui représentaient la moitié de l’humanité. Plusieurs délégués ont souligné l'importance de cette question et ont rappelé des initiatives nationales en cours pour promouvoir l'éducation des filles et des femmes dans les STEM, y compris la révision et l’amélioration des manuels et matériels pédagogiques. Une demande de mobilisation de ressources supplémentaires a été faite dans ce domaine, et un État membre, le Japon, a rappelé qu’un accord avait été établi en 2017 pour soutenir davantage la formation des enseignants en Afrique. Trois États membres ont demandé des précisions sur la manière dont les pays pilotes du Projet SAGA sur les STEM et l’égalité des genres avaient été sélectionnés et deux autres se sont enquis de la manière dont l'UNESCO utiliserait le rapport pour améliorer l'égalité des genres dans les STEM. La décision recommandée sur ce point figure au paragraphe 5 du rapport écrit.

5.8 Nous avons poursuivi nos travaux avec l’examen conjoint du point 5 Partie I (F) « Rapport de la Directrice générale sur la participation de l'UNESCO aux célébrations internationales du 150e anniversaire du tableau périodique des éléments chimiques en 2019 » et du point 43 « Proposition concernant la proclamation par l’Organisation des Nations Unies de 2019 Année Internationale du tableau périodique des éléments chimiques ». La Fédération de Russie a rappelé les discussions tenues sur ces deux points lors de la réunion d'intersession, au cours de laquelle un accord avait été trouvé en vue de l’adoption sans débat des deux projets de décision. Le délégué a souhaité rappeler qu’un grand nombre d’États membres, 33 pays au total, avaient coparrainé ce projet de décision. Le délégué a par ailleurs souligné l'importance du tableau périodique pour le développement des sciences fondamentales et appliquées et a exprimé l'espoir que cette Année connaisse un succès retentissant. Les décisions recommandées sur ces deux points figurent aux paragraphes 7 et 31 respectivement du rapport écrit.

5.9 La Commission a examiné ensuite le point 5 Partie I (G) « Institutions culturelles et éducatives en Iraq ». Plusieurs délégations ont reconnu l'aide cruciale apportée par l'UNESCO à l'Iraq et les résultats obtenus.

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Un délégué a salué les réalisations faites dans le domaine de l’éducation et s’est enquis du lien entre le nouveau modèle de gouvernance de l’enseignement technique et professionnel en Iraq et l’approche de l’EFTP incluse dans le Programme 2030. Plusieurs États membres ont exprimé leur soutien aux actions de protection du patrimoine culturel en temps de conflit armé, notamment à la Campagne #UnisPourLePatrimoine. D’autre part, ils ont souligné l’engagement de certains États membres en Iraq, en particulier dans les domaines de la prévention des pillages et du renforcement des capacités entrepris à Bagdad et à Erbil. Des informations complémentaires ont été demandées concernant le fonds de 1,6 million de dollars mentionné dans le rapport. La décision recommandée pour ce point figure au paragraphe 8 du rapport écrit.

5.10 Nous avons poursuivi nos travaux avec l’examen du point 5 Partie I (H) « Rapport sur la mise en œuvre de la Stratégie de renforcement de l’action de l’UNESCO en matière de protection de la culture et de promotion du pluralisme culturel en cas de conflit armé ». Vingt-deux délégués ont pris la parole. Ils ont exprimé leur appui à l’Addendum relatif aux catastrophes naturelles et cinq délégués ont tenu à souligner les besoins de financement pour sa mise en œuvre. Un membre a exprimé ses réserves concernant le lien établi dans une même stratégie entre les urgences liées aux conflits et celles liées aux catastrophes, tout en indiquant sa volonté de se joindre au large consensus obtenu. De nombreux délégués se sont félicités de l’adoption par le Conseil de sécurité de l’ONU de la résolution 2347. Un membre a souligné que toute inclusion de la culture dans les missions de maintien de la paix devait se faire en respect des résolutions adoptées et au cas par cas, et a indiqué, concernant les refuges pour les objets culturels, qu’il était préférable de les établir sur le territoire des pays concernés. Une très large majorité a soutenu le projet de décision amendé présenté par l’Italie, ainsi que l’Appel proposé, lesquels avaient fait l’objet de consultations préalables. Un membre a souhaité faire figurer dans ce rapport une réserve concernant son soutien à l’Appel, soulignant que les actions que les États étaient encouragés à mettre en œuvre devaient être limitées aux cadres juridiques nationaux. Un délégué a présenté un amendement visant à insister sur la nécessaire synergie entre les conventions culturelles de l’UNESCO et la Stratégie de renforcement de l’action de l’UNESCO pour la protection de la culture et la promotion du pluralisme culturel en cas de conflit armé. Sur ce point, la Commission a recommandé la décision présentée au paragraphe 9 du rapport écrit.

5.11 La Commission a examiné ensuite le point 5 partie I (I) « Statuts révisés de l’Alliance internationale pour la protection du patrimoine dans les zones en conflit (ALIPH) ». Suite à mon invitation de passer directement à l’examen du projet de décision, un intervenant a présenté une proposition d’amendement demandant de présenter les modalités d’identification et de mise en œuvre des projets, les méthodes de financement y relatifs et le rôle de l’UNESCO. Un autre délégué a souligné le lien étroit entre l’Alliance internationale pour la protection du patrimoine dans les zones en conflit (ALIPH) et la Stratégie de renforcement de l’action de l’UNESCO pour la protection de la culture et la promotion du pluralisme culturel en cas de conflit armé, et a suggéré que lors des prochaines réunions du Conseil, les deux points sur la Stratégie et sur l’ALIPH soient fusionnés dans un même

débat. La décision recommandée pour ce point figure au paragraphe 10 du rapport écrit.

5.12 Sur le point 5 Partie I (J) « Proposition de stratégie et de plan d’action pour protéger et renforcer la reconnaissance de la marque des réserves de biosphère, des sites du patrimoine mondial et des géoparcs mondiaux UNESCO ». Le document informait les membres du Conseil de l’analyse du Secrétariat relative à la protection actuelle de la marque des réserves de biosphère, des sites du patrimoine mondial et des géoparcs mondiaux UNESCO, ainsi que des mesures destinées à renforcer la gestion des multiples marques. La Commission a décidé qu’un débat n’était pas nécessaire et est passée directement à l’examen du projet de décision. Ce projet figure au paragraphe 11 du rapport écrit.

5.13 La Commission a ensuite poursuivi ses travaux avec l’examen du point 5 Partie I (L) « Suivi de la situation en République autonome de Crimée (Ukraine) ». Dans son introduction, le représentant de la Directrice générale a rappelé que les informations qui figuraient dans le document 202 EX/5 Partie I (L) étaient communiquées en vertu de la décision 200 EX/5.I.H relative au suivi de la situation en République autonome de Crimée (Ukraine). Le document comprenait notamment un examen des mesures que l’UNESCO prenait et prévoyait de prendre dans ses domaines de compétence ; les informations que la délégation permanente de l’Ukraine avait fournies le 10 juillet 2017 au Secrétariat sur les derniers événements survenus en République autonome de Crimée et dans la ville de Sébastopol (Ukraine) dans les domaines de compétence de l’UNESCO ; et les informations fournies par les partenaires institutionnels de l’UNESCO, à savoir le Haut-Commissariat des Nations Unies aux droits de l’homme, l’Organisation pour la sécurité et la coopération en Europe par le biais de son Représentant pour la liberté des médias, le Conseil international des monuments et des sites et Amnesty International. Des discussions ont été entamées au sujet des paramètres d’une « activité de surveillance directe » par le Secrétariat en complément des mécanismes de surveillance indirecte instaurés depuis 2015 par le Secrétariat avec l’appui des partenaires institutionnels. Le projet de décision a été adopté suite à un vote par appel nominal avec dix-sept voix pour et cinq voix contre. Après le vote, quatre délégués ont pris la parole pour expliquer leur position et un observateur a fait part de ses commentaires sur ce point. La Fédération de Russie a noté que le Conseil exécutif avait adopté une décision déconnectée de la situation réelle dans le pays et a réitéré sa disponibilité à accueillir une délégation dépolitisée. La Chine a exhorté au dialogue et à la consultation comme seules voies possibles pour trouver un règlement à cette situation. Les États-Unis d’Amérique ont rappelé la résolution 68/262 de l’Assemblée générale des Nations Unies, ont réitéré que l’UNESCO pouvait aider dans ses domaines de compétence et ont évoqué la situation du journaliste Mykola Semena. L’Ukraine a remercié le Conseil pour ses efforts visant à rechercher des solutions et a souligné que l’UNESCO pouvait devenir véritablement un acteur important dans ses domaines d’action. L’Union européenne a salué l’adoption de la décision, laquelle servirait de base à toutes les activités de l’UNESCO. La décision recommandée pour ce point figure au paragraphe 13 du rapport écrit.

5.14 Pour le point 5 Partie I (M) « Programme global d’appui spécial post-conflit en faveur de la Côte d’Ivoire »,

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pour lequel un débat limité avait été proposé, trois délégués et un observateur ont pris la parole. Les délégués ont remercié l’UNESCO pour son action en Côte d’Ivoire suite à l’adoption en 2007 d’un programme global post-conflit en sa faveur. Deux délégués ont souhaité que le programme en Côte d’Ivoire soit poursuivi. Un délégué a noté le rôle du Bureau de l’UNESCO ouvert à Abidjan en 2013, notamment son implication dans les actions visant à l’ouverture future d’une École de la paix en Côte d’Ivoire, laquelle pourrait aider au développement de la paix et de la stabilité dans la sous-région en particulier, et de manière plus générale en Afrique. Les délégués se sont félicités des efforts consentis par les partenaires et ont noté la nécessité de poursuivre la levée de fonds en faveur de ces actions. La décision recommandée pour ce point figure au paragraphe 14 du rapport écrit.

5.15 La Commission a poursuivi son travail avec l’examen du point 5 Partie III (B) « Application par l’UNESCO du Plan d’action à l’échelle du système des Nations Unies (ONU-SWAP) pour l’égalité des sexes et l’autonomisation des femmes ». Les délégués se sont félicités des réalisations de l’Organisation dans ce domaine. Un délégué a demandé des précisions sur les mesures prises pour atteindre la note actuelle de « satisfait aux exigences » dans l'indicateur de performance « culture organisationnelle ». Un autre délégué a fait remarquer que l’ONU-SWAP était un outil efficace pour renforcer l’action de l’UNESCO en faveur de l’égalité des sexes et a noté que des améliorations étaient possibles, y compris par le biais du mécanisme de suivi budgétaire pour la priorité globale Égalité des genres ou du suivi de l’ONU-SWAP révisé. Tout en remerciant la Directrice générale pour la qualité du rapport présenté, un délégué a souligné que la question du genre devrait être reflétée dans tous les indicateurs, en particulier dans le budget qui lui est consacré et où les actions n’étaient pas encore suffisantes. Un délégué a demandé des précisions sur les quinze indicateurs de performance et le système de notation de l'ONU-SWAP et un autre a fait remarquer que les indicateurs 8 et 9 ne montraient pas de progression. Sur ce point, la Commission a recommandé la décision qui figure au paragraphe 15 du rapport écrit.

5.16 Sur le point 5 Partie I (K) « Rapport d’étape sur la sécurité des journalistes et la question de l’impunité », dix-huit délégués ont pris la parole. Les délégués ont accueilli favorablement le document, tout en soulignant son caractère non contraignant. Ils ont rappelé le précieux travail fourni par l’Organisation en matière d’appui technique aux États membres, d’élaboration de politiques, de sensibilisation et de renforcement des capacités. Le soutien de nombreux États membres à la décision proposée montrait que la sécurité des journalistes était essentielle pour la paix, la sécurité et le développement. Plusieurs délégués ont souligné que la question de la sécurité des journalistes devrait être maintenue comme une priorité d’action de l’UNESCO, avec une attention particulière à l’augmentation des violences faites aux femmes journalistes qui font face, de fait, à une double discrimination. En outre, ils ont rappelé le rôle de premier plan de l’Organisation concernant le Plan d’action des Nations Unies et le suivi de la cible 1 de l’ODD 16.10. Les délégués ont noté les nombreux progrès réalisés au niveau international concernant la sécurité des journalistes et ont souhaité que ces progrès soient traduits dans les politiques nationales. Plusieurs délégués ont partagé des informations sur des initiatives nationales dans ce domaine. Un délégué a insisté sur le fait que l’UNESCO devait continuer à se pencher sur la question

de l’impunité. Un délégué a déclaré que le document final de la réunion de Genève n’avait pas été approuvé au préalable par les États membres, qu’il ne reflétait pas la position de son pays mais que son pays se joignait au consensus obtenu sur cette question grâce au travail du Groupe d’Amis pour la sécurité des journalistes. Le délégué a demandé que le rapport oral mentionne le fait que la Fédération de Russie ne reconnaissait pas la notion élargie du terme « journaliste », qui comprenait les « producteurs de médias sociaux » mentionnés au paragraphe 8 du projet de décision. La Fédération de Russie reconnaissait seulement le sens traditionnel du terme « journaliste » tel qu’utilisé par l’Organisation des Nations Unies, à savoir « journalistes, professionnels des médias et personnel associé ». La décision de la Commission sur ce point figure au paragraphe 12 du rapport écrit.

5.17 Concernant le point 6 « Coordination mondiale/régionale et soutien de l’UNESCO pour la mise en œuvre de l’ODD 4 – Éducation 2030 », vingt délégués ont pris la parole. Les délégués ont reconnu le rôle de premier plan que l'UNESCO jouait dans ce domaine. Plusieurs membres ont félicité le Comité directeur ODD – Éducation 2030 pour son travail, y compris les recommandations issues de sa dernière réunion. Les délégués ont souligné l'importance de partager les bonnes pratiques et de renforcer la coopération pour atteindre l'objectif mondial. Des questions ont été soulevées sur les ressources financières et humaines prévues pour le travail de l'UNESCO au titre de l'axe d'action 2 dans le projet de 39 C/5, ainsi que sur le suivi de l'évaluation menée par IOS, les partenariats, les consultations régionales et la cible 4.b sur les bourses. Un État membre a demandé que les noms des dix pays pilotes du Programme CapED soient inclus dans les futurs rapports concernant ce point. La recommandation de la Commission sur ce point figure au paragraphe 16 du rapport écrit.

5.18 La Commission a poursuivi son travail avec l’examen du point 7 « Contribution de l’UNESCO à la prévention de l’extrémisme violent », au cours duquel 24 délégués sont intervenus. Les délégués ont félicité l'UNESCO pour son travail sur la prévention de l’extrémisme violent et pour l'approche intersectorielle adoptée pour mener à bien ces travaux. Plusieurs délégués ont salué la publication de documents d’orientation, l'organisation de conférences internationales et d'ateliers de renforcement des capacités appuyés par de nombreux États membres, ainsi que la promotion d'une participation active des jeunes. À cet égard, je souhaiterais mentionner la contribution du Qatar à hauteur de 50 000 dollars pour soutenir ces activités. Plusieurs délégués ont affirmé l'importance primordiale de l'éducation, en particulier de la dimension du genre, dans les efforts de prévention de l'extrémisme violent, notamment par l'éducation à la citoyenneté mondiale et le fait d’apprendre à vivre ensemble. Un pays a souligné le rôle majeur des États dans la prévention de l'extrémisme violent et du terrorisme et dans la coopération internationale dans ce domaine. La nécessité d’un soutien extrabudgétaire supplémentaire, du développement de partenariats avec les institutions du système des Nations Unies et les parties prenantes nationales et internationales, ainsi que de la mise en place d'un système de suivi des efforts déployés par les États membres dans ce domaine a été soulignée. En outre, plusieurs États membres ont recommandé une meilleure utilisation des plates-formes existantes, telles que le

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Réseau du système des écoles associées de l’UNESCO, le Centre d'échange d’informations de l’UNESCO sur l’éducation à la citoyenneté mondiale hébergé par l’APCEIU, les chaires UNESCO et les nombreux réseaux de la société civile avec lesquels l'Organisation coopère. La recommandation de la Commission sur ce point se trouve au paragraphe 17 du rapport écrit.

5.19 Sur le point 8 « Rapport d’étape sur l’élaboration d’un projet de convention sur la reconnaissance des qualifications de l’enseignement supérieur », seize États membres et un observateur ont pris la parole. Les délégués se sont félicités du travail du Secrétariat et de l’élaboration du texte préliminaire de la convention. Plusieurs délégués ont exprimé leur soutien à cette initiative et à la marche à suivre proposée. Plusieurs représentants ont soulevé des questions sur le calendrier, le format des consultations futures et les ressources humaines dont disposait l'UNESCO pour la mise en œuvre de la convention. Un représentant s'est dit préoccupé par la disposition relative aux réfugiés et un autre a souligné que la convention ne devrait pas inclure de nouvelles obligations pour les États membres. Certains États membres ont demandé des précisions sur la relation entre la future convention mondiale et les deux conventions régionales encore en cours de révision (la Convention de 1974 pour l’Amérique latine et les Caraïbes et la Convention de 1978 pour la région des États arabes), notamment concernant leur contenu et leur calendrier d'adoption. La recommandation de la Commission sur ce point figure au paragraphe 18 du rapport écrit.

5.20 La Commission a examiné ensuite le point 44 « Le rôle de l’UNESCO dans la promotion de l’alphabétisation dans le cadre du Programme de développement durable à l’horizon 2030 ». Quatre délégués sont intervenus sur ce point. Un délégué a souligné l'importance des efforts d'alphabétisation et a cité les noms des vingt et un pays qui avaient coparrainé le projet de décision. Trois autres États membres ont demandé à être ajoutés à la liste des coauteurs. Un délégué a également pris la parole et a parlé du Prix UNESCO-Confucius d'alphabétisation qu'il parrainait et qui avait été renouvelé l'année précédente. La décision recommandée par la Commission sur ce point figure au paragraphe 32 du rapport écrit.

5.21 La Commission a poursuivi son travail avec l’examen du point 9 « Politique de l’UNESCO sur l’engagement auprès des peuples autochtones ». Vingt-deux délégués et cinq observateurs ont pris la parole sur ce point. Un délégué a noté l’importance pour l’UNESCO d’avoir sa propre Politique sur l’engagement auprès des peuples autochtones, et a manifesté son appréciation du processus de consultation mené auprès des États membres. Plusieurs délégués et un observateur ont souligné la nature non contraignante de cette Politique. Un délégué a souligné qu’il était urgent d’adopter cette Politique, notamment pour obtenir des fonds extrabudgétaires. Un État membre a remercié le Secrétariat pour l’organisation de consultations écrites, mais a précisé que le travail sur le document proposé n’était pas fini. Le délégué a exprimé des objections relatives à plusieurs paragraphes, soulignant la nécessité de poursuivre les consultations intergouvernementales sur cette question. Un autre délégué a constaté que la Politique traitait principalement des savoirs autochtones et que son titre devrait refléter cela. Il a en outre noté que la définition des peuples autochtones était sujette à discussion. De nombreux délégués et observateurs ont

exprimé leur satisfaction vis-à-vis de ce projet et ont mentionné des activités que l’UNESCO mettait en œuvre dans ce domaine. Un délégué a suggéré l’ajout de la notion de consentement libre, préalable et éclairé au paragraphe 31 de la Partie B. Deux autres délégués ont demandé la poursuite des consultations sur cette Politique. Un délégué a souligné que la Politique ne devrait pas aborder des questions plus larges qui relevaient du mandat d’autres organes subsidiaires pertinents de l'ONU chargés d’examiner les questions relatives à la participation des populations autochtones. Enfin, deux délégués ont insisté sur le fait que cette Politique devait être évolutive afin de permettre aux États membres d’y apporter des améliorations. Sur ce point, et sur le débat très animé que vous percevez en écoutant le rapport, la Commission a recommandé la décision figurant au paragraphe 19 du rapport écrit.

5.22 La Commission a examiné ensuite le point 42 « La mémoire de la glace : un enjeu pour le futur ». Ce point avait été inscrit à l’ordre du jour provisoire de la 202e session du Conseil exécutif à la demande de la France et de l’Italie et devait être abordé sans débat. Néanmoins, douze membres ont pris la parole. Nombre d’entre eux ont fait part de leur soutien à l'initiative « Mémoire de la glace ». L’examen sur ce point a donné lieu à une discussion approfondie sur la modalité la plus appropriée pour informer la réunion consultative du Traité sur l'Antarctique de l’initiative « Mémoire de la glace ». Certains délégués étaient d’avis que c’était à la Directrice générale de le faire, d'autres soutenaient que cela ne semblait pas approprié, arguant que les Parties au Traité sur l'Antarctique étaient mieux placées à cet égard. La discussion a finalement conclu que la Directrice générale transmettrait l’information au Secrétariat du Traité sur l'Antarctique. Sur ce point, la Commission a recommandé la décision figurant au paragraphe 30 du rapport écrit.

5.23 Nous avons poursuivi nos travaux avec l’examen du point 14 « Rapport sur la mise en œuvre du Programme Information pour tous (PIPT) (2016-2017) ». La Présidente du Programme Information pour tous a rappelé brièvement des événements et activités clés mentionnés dans le rapport sur le Programme pour la période 2016-2017. Elle a ensuite déclaré que le Bureau du PIPT appuyait l'Appel de Québec « sur Internet et la radicalisation des jeunes » et recommandé que la décision proposée soit soumise à la prochaine Conférence générale. Elle a exprimé ses remerciements aux Gouvernements de la Chine, de la République de Corée, du Québec, du Canada, du Liban et de la Fédération de Russie pour leur contribution à la mise en œuvre du Programme. Elle a ensuite remercié les autorités de la Grenade, le Secrétariat du PIPT, l'ADG/CI et la Directrice générale pour leur soutien continu au PIPT. La décision recommandée par la Commission sur ce point est présentée au paragraphe 23 du rapport écrit.

5.24 La Commission a examiné ensuite le point 40 « Association de l’UNESCO à l’initiative de l’Union internationale des architectes pour désigner les villes hôtes du Congrès de l’UIA prétendant au titre de Capitale mondiale de l’architecture ». La Commission a procédé directement à l’examen du projet de décision, au cours duquel six membres du Conseil exécutif ont pris la parole. Ils ont tous salué cette initiative. Un délégué a proposé de modifier l’annexe afin de permettre la désignation des Capitales mondiales de l’architecture avant 2023. Trois autres représentants ont souligné l’importance de la pleine participation de l’UNESCO aux évaluations et désignations des villes candidates aux côtés de l’Union

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internationale des architectes. Ce faisant, ils ont demandé que des critères stricts soient appliqués, se référant à cet égard à ceux établis pour les Capitales mondiales du livre, et ont souhaité s’assurer que l’UNESCO serait pleinement membre du panel conjoint de sélection. Un membre a également demandé que ces préoccupations soient reflétées dans le rapport oral de la Commission PX. Sur ce point, la Commission a recommandé la décision présentée au paragraphe 29 du rapport écrit.

5.25 Le point 45 « Affirmer le rôle de l’UNESCO en matière de tourisme durable pour le développement », a été inscrit à l’ordre du jour de la 202e session du Conseil à la demande d’Oman. Dans son introduction, la déléguée a rappelé qu’un grand nombre d’États membres s’étaient portés coauteurs du projet de décision. En outre, la déléguée a informé la Commission de la conférence mondiale qui serait organisée en décembre 2017 par son pays. Lors de l’examen du projet de décision en Commission, trois autres États membres ont confirmé qu’ils coparrainaient le texte. Sur ce point, la Commission a recommandé la décision qui figure au paragraphe 33 du rapport écrit.

5.26 Concernant le point 36 « Propositions relatives à la célébration des anniversaires auxquels l’UNESCO pourrait être associée en 2018-2019, et recours présentés par les États membres à ce sujet », la Commission a décidé d’adopter le projet de décision dans son intégralité. La décision recommandée par la Commission sur ce point figure au paragraphe 26 du rapport écrit.

5.27 La Commission a poursuivi son travail avec l’examen du point 16 Partie II « Reconduction du Prix international UNESCO-Grèce Mélina Mercouri pour la sauvegarde et la gestion des paysages culturels ». Deux délégués ont pris la parole au cours du débat. La Grèce a exprimé sa satisfaction concernant le renouvellement pour six ans de ce Prix UNESCO, qui est le seul à être décerné par le Secteur de la culture. La décision recommandée pour ce point figure au paragraphe 25 du rapport écrit.

5.28 La Commission a examiné ensuite le point 5 Partie I (E) « Rapport d’étape de l’Institut de statistique de l’UNESCO sur la ventilation des données concernant les indicateurs de développement relatifs au petits États insulaires en développement (PEID) ». Trois délégués ont pris la parole. Ils ont félicité l’ISU pour l’ensemble de son travail, y compris sur les petits États insulaires en développement. Ils ont noté la nécessité de faire rapport sur les PEID d’Afrique, y compris de donner des informations sur les indicateurs et sur les efforts de renforcement des capacités. Un délégué a souligné la nécessité urgente d'une classification de la vulnérabilité, en particulier après les phénomènes naturels dramatiques survenus récemment dans les Caraïbes. Sur ce point, la Commission a recommandé la décision qui figure au paragraphe 6 du rapport écrit.

5.29 La Commission a poursuivi son travail avec l’examen du point 10 « Rapport de la Directrice générale sur l’élaboration d’un projet final de déclaration de principes éthiques en rapport avec le changement climatique ». Trente-quatre délégués et cinq observateurs ont pris la parole sur ce point. La majorité des délégués a souligné l'importance de l'élaboration par l'UNESCO d'une telle déclaration dont les principes d’application universelle serviraient à guider la prise de décision, la formulation de politiques et d’autres actions en rapport avec les changements climatiques. Plusieurs délégués ont apprécié que le projet final de déclaration mette

l’accent sur la Convention-cadre des Nations unies sur les changements climatiques (CCNUCC) en tant que principal instrument international pour les questions liées aux changements climatiques, et sur l’Accord de Paris en tant que source principale. Il a été réaffirmé que cette déclaration ne devrait en aucun cas être utilisée pour réinterpréter les principes et les articles de la CCNUCC et de l’Accord de Paris. Tout en remerciant le Secrétariat pour le travail accompli, plusieurs délégués ont exprimé l'espoir que la Conférence générale puisse adopter cette déclaration à sa 39e session, estimant que remettre à plus tard l'adoption fragiliserait l'action de l'UNESCO et aurait de graves conséquences pour la déclaration, notamment en raison des coûts élevés d’une nouvelle convocation des groupes d'experts. En conséquence, plusieurs délégués ont souligné que même si le texte du projet final n'était pas encore parfait, il était important de ne pas rouvrir le débat à son sujet. La majorité des délégués qui ont pris la parole ont néanmoins souligné que la notion des « responsabilités communes mais différenciées et des capacités respectives » (CBDR) figurant dans la CCNUCC et l’Accord de Paris était un principe fondamental pour cette déclaration éthique sur les changements climatiques, même s’il ne s’agissait pas d’un principe éthique. Ils ont fait la proposition d'ajouter l'article 2.2 de l'Accord de Paris au paragraphe 10 du préambule du projet de déclaration. Le projet de décision a été amendé en conséquence. Les délégués se sont félicités de recommander d’un commun accord à la Conférence générale d'adopter cette déclaration à sa 39e session. Ils ont réaffirmé que l'UNESCO avec son mandat éthique de promouvoir la solidarité morale et intellectuelle était un lieu de dialogue et de compréhension mutuelle. Les délégués des États-Unis d’Amérique et de l'Afrique du Sud ont souligné que leurs pays souhaitaient se dissocier de cette décision et de cette déclaration et ont demandé que cela soit reflété dans le rapport oral de notre Commission. Sur ce point, la Commission a recommandé la décision figurant au paragraphe 20 du rapport écrit.

5.30 Le point 11 portait sur la « Révision des statuts du Conseil intergouvernemental du Programme Gestion des transformations sociales (MOST) ». Le document soumis à l’examen du Conseil comprenait les amendements aux Statuts adoptés par le Conseil intergouvernemental du Programme MOST à sa 13e session et proposés à la Conférence générale pour approbation. Il n’y avait pas de débat prévu sur ce point. La Commission recommande pour ce point la décision qui figure au paragraphe 21 du rapport écrit.

5.31 Sur le point 12 « Rapport sur la mise en œuvre de la Décennie internationale du rapprochement des cultures (2013-2022) », la Commission est passée directement à l’examen du projet de décision. Ce dernier figure au paragraphe 22 du rapport écrit.

5.32 La Commission a terminé ses travaux avec l’examen du point 15 « Rapport final du Comité consultatif international sur l’examen du Programme Mémoire du monde ». Le Directeur général adjoint a introduit ce point en rappelant qu’il était à l’ordre du jour conformément à la décision 201 EX/5.I.H. Dans cette décision, le Conseil exécutif prenait note du rapport d’étape établi par le Président du Comité consultatif international (CCI) du Programme Mémoire du monde, encourageait le CCI à poursuivre son travail sur ses Statuts et sur les Principes directeurs pour la mise en œuvre du Programme, et priait la Directrice générale de lui présenter, à sa 202e session, le rapport final du Comité consultatif international sur l’examen du Programme. Le CCI, à sa réunion ordinaire

202 EX/SR.1-12 page 107 – SR.11

d’octobre 2015, a décidé d’entreprendre un examen du Programme Mémoire du monde. Cet examen a été mené à l’échelle mondiale dans le cadre de consultations inclusives menées avec des experts et des États membres. Le Président du Conseil exécutif a informé la Commission que le document consensuel qui lui était soumis, à savoir le projet de décision 202 EX/PX/DR.15.8, était le résultat d’un dialogue très inclusif avec une douzaine d’États membres concernés, parmi lesquels chaque groupe régional était dûment représenté. Il a ajouté que par ce consensus négocié, un message positif était transmis au CCI pour le travail accompli, mais que le document mettait néanmoins l’accent sur la nécessité d’effectuer un examen plus approfondi, incluant les États membres. Un État membre a souhaité exprimer sa reconnaissance au Président du Comité consultatif international et au Président du Conseil exécutif pour le projet de décision consensuel soumis à l’approbation de la Commission. Le délégué a attiré l’attention sur l’importance de développer les capacités dans les pays en développement pour faciliter l’accès au patrimoine documentaire et en améliorant la préservation, et a appelé au respect des règles et des orientations actuelles lors du prochain cycle de propositions d’inscription au Registre. Il a continué en mentionnant qu’un centre UNESCO de catégorie 2 en lien avec le Programme Mémoire du monde était en voie de création en République de Corée. À la suite de cette intervention, un deuxième État membre a pris la parole pour exprimer son soutien. J’ai ensuite donné la parole au Président du Comité consultatif international qui s’est félicité de l’attention accordée à ce Programme. Il a annoncé qu’après deux ans et demi d’efforts, le plan ambitieux visant à réellement réformer le Programme s’accomplissait au travers des quinze recommandations discutées à Berlin en mars avant leur soumission au Conseil exécutif. Il a félicité les États membres pour le consensus obtenu et a garanti que le CCI tiendrait compte de leur décision lors de ses futures délibérations sur les nouveaux documents à inscrire au Registre de la Mémoire du monde. J’ai remercié le Président du CCI pour son travail en soulignant que le CCI aidait l’UNESCO à remplir sa mission. La décision, approuvée par consensus et sans débat, recommandée par la Commission sur ce point figure au paragraphe 24 du rapport écrit.

5.33 Chers collègues, Mesdames, Messieurs, avant de terminer mon rapport, permettez-moi de vous rappeler que toutes les décisions que nous avons approuvées sont citées dans le rapport écrit de notre Commission (document 202 EX/50.). Je vous rappelle également que, pour gagner du temps, je ne ferai mes remerciements à toutes les parties concernées qu’à la fin de ma présentation du rapport de la Commission conjointe. Je vous remercie de votre attention.

6. The Chairperson recalled that, pursuant to Rule 47 of the Rules of Procedure of the Executive Board, the Board should adopt the entire set of draft decisions recommended by each plenary commission as a whole, unless a Board Member requested that a specific decision be adopted separately. Seeing no such request, he took it that the Board wished to adopt the entire set of draft decisions contained in document 202 EX/50.


8. The representative of the Republic of Korea said that two divergent schools of thought still remained with reference to nature and future of the Memory of the World (MoW) Programme: some Member States would

like to see the Programme maintain its expert-driven character, as recommended by the International Advisory Committee in its final report, while others considered that the Programme should embrace an interpretive and historical perspective, with greater government involvement. It was time for the Member States to reach a common understanding of the nature and aim of the Programme and give clear guidance to the Secretariat and the International Advisory Committee on that matter. He welcomed in particular paragraph 7 of the draft decision contained in paragraph 24 of document 202 EX/50, especially since the non-retroactive application of the new rules had been unanimously endorsed in informal discussions among Board Members. Respect for the rule of law was paramount: although paragraph 8 of the draft decision was, as the Legal Adviser had explained, a moral appeal rather than a legally binding injunction, the implication was clear – the decision should not provide a pretext for any Member State to put pressure on the Director-General to postpone or stop the current nomination process. One important reason for preserving documentary heritage was to educate future generations with lessons learned from history; to ensure that, as the Universal Declaration on Archives, endorsed by the General Conference at its 36th session, stated so well, “archives are used to contribute to the promotion of responsible citizenship”.

9. Представитель Российской Федерации вы-ражает сожаление в связи с тем, что большинство государств-членов отказались продолжить работу над политикой ЮНЕСКО по взаимодействию с коренными народами, тогда как документ в его нынешнем виде содержит большое число технических и фактологиче-ских ошибок. Он подчеркивает, что данный документ был лишь принят к сведению Исполнительным сове-том и является соответственно внутренним докумен-том Секретариата, не имеет никакой юридической силы и нуждается в доработке. Кроме того, он напра-вит поправку к переводу текста документа на русский язык.

(9) The representative of the Russian Federation said that it was regrettable that the majority of Member States had not agreed to continue working on UNESCO’s policy on cooperation with indigenous peoples. The document on their current condition contained numerous technical and factual errors. He emphasized that the document had only been approved for the attention of the Executive Board and accordingly it was an internal Secretariat document. It had no legal force and was in need of further work. Furthermore, he made a correction to the Russian-language version of the text.

10.1 The representative of the United States of America, commending the Chairpersons of the FA and PX Commissions on their professionalism and hard work, said that he hoped the spirit of consensus that had emerged during the commission meetings, in particular on decisions involving the Middle East, would be maintained at future sessions of the governing bodies. It was notable that the report by the Chairperson of the Programme and External Relations Commission had failed to mention the work of the group “UNESCO Friends of Preventing Violent Extremism” and he urged the group to continue helping the Secretariat to achieve concrete and measurable results. With regard to item 10 on finalization of the draft declaration of ethical principles in relation to climate change, the United States had disassociated itself from the decision on the item, considering that the issue fell

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within the purview of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The decision risked making an already complex matter more so.

10.2 The consensus reached on the Memory of the World (MoW) Programme was welcome as it reflected a balance between the Organization’s oversight of the Programme and the contribution of experts to it. He endorsed the remarks made by the Chairperson of the International Advisory Committee (IAC) concerning the Programme’s objectives. The United States of America had joined the consensus on the related draft decision, albeit with the express understanding that it would not recognize any new rights that it had not previously recognized, and would not accept the expansion of content coverage of existing rights or any other proposed modification to treaty law or customary international law.

11 中国代表感谢 FA 主席和 PX 主席所作的大量工作，

并就议题 15 的国际咨询委员会（IAC）关于世界记忆审查

工作的最终报告发表中方声明。中方高度赞赏世界记忆项

目自创立以来为保护、传播和利用文献遗产作出重要贡

献。中方认为，世界记忆项目应当记录具备世界意义的历

史事实，对项目规则的修订应体现国际正义，促进会员国

之间的对话与团结，从而维护世界和平，促进可持续发

展。中方赞赏 IAC 专家组对世界记忆项目相关规则的改进

和改善所作的努力，中方支持 IAC 专家在项目评审和相关

规则修订中保持客观、专业和公正，反对对教科文组织专

业项目施加政治影响，以维护世界记忆项目健康、可持续

地发展。世界记忆项目是总干事领导下的专家主导型项

目，项目改革涉及面广，内容复杂。中方强调，今后其他

规则文件的修订应坚持程序上公开透明，规则修订应扩大

会员国的广泛参与，总干事和秘书处应充分发挥领导作

用，特别就名录提名渠道、世界记忆项目秘书处的职责、

有争议项目提名早期解决办法等进行深入的探讨，广泛听

取会员国意见，从专业角度实现项目质量和影响力的整体

提升。中方表示愿与各会员国一道，本着客观正义的原

则，以有关文献遗产的保护、传播和利用为目的，共同做

好世界记忆项目审查工作。

(11) The representative of China thanked the Chairpersons of the FA and PX Commissions for their hard work and then delivered a statement on item 15 – Final Report by the International Advisory Committee (IAC) on the Review Process of the Memory of the World Programme. He said that China highly appreciated the important contributions made by the Memory of the World Programme since its creation to preserving, disseminating and accessing documentary heritage. China maintained that the Programme should endeavour to document historical facts of global significance and that any amendments to its rules should be made in such a way that it would promote international justice as well as dialogue and solidarity among Member States, thus contributing to world peace and sustainable development. China appreciated the efforts made by the International Advisory Committee of the Memory of the World Programme (IAC) to improve relevant rules of the Memory of the World Programme and supported the IAC experts in maintaining an objective, professional and fair stand in the process of programme review and amending relevant rules. To ensure a healthy and sustainable development of the Memory of the World Programme, China was opposed to any exertion of political influence on UNESCO’s specialized programmes. The Memory of the World Programme was an expert-driven programme under

the leadership of the Director-General. Its reform involved a wide array of subjects and complicated issues. China wished to emphasize that in the future, the amendment of any texts relating to rules should follow the principles of openness and transparency of procedures and be conducted with the extensive participation of Member States and with the Director-General and the Secretariat being fully in charge. In particular, broad consultations of Member States should be undertaken by conducting in-depth discussions on issues such as the channels for submitting nominations, the duties of the Secretariat of the Memory of the World Programme and solutions for early settlement of controversial nominations, so as to enhance the quality and visibility of the Programme in a holistic and professional manner. Based on the principles of objectivity and justice and with a view to preserving, disseminating and accessing documentary heritage, China was willing to work with all Member States for a successful review of the Memory of the World Programme.

12.1 S’exprimant lui aussi au sujet du Programme Mémoire du monde, le représentant de l’Allemagne déclare que la délégation allemande se réjouit de l’esprit constructif et consensuel qui a guidé les travaux du groupe de travail sur le Programme, sous la direction du Président du Conseil exécutif. Il remercie les pays en question : l’Algérie, la Chine, les États-Unis d’Amérique, la France, l’Inde, le Japon, la Lituanie, le Mexique, le Nigéria, le Pakistan, le Paraguay, les Pays-Bas, la République de Corée et la Russie, ainsi que le représentant de l’Union européenne, qui a participé au nom des 28 États membres de l’UE.

12.2 Selon lui, il est ressorti des discussions, premièrement, que le Programme Mémoire du monde a bien fonctionné pendant 23 ans ; deuxièmement, qu’il s’agit d’un petit programme par rapport à d’autres programmes culturels régis par une Convention, mais qu’il cause depuis quelque temps des problèmes disproportionnés qu’il convient de résoudre ; troisièmement, que le processus de proposition d’inscription nécessite plus de transparence et qu’il faudrait trouver une solution aux propositions d’inscription controversées.

12.3 À cet égard, des solutions ont été proposées dans le rapport des experts et lors de la réunion intersessions du 21 septembre, à savoir : favoriser le dialogue, renforcer le rôle des commissions nationales, voire créer une liste indicative. Il invite la nouvelle direction générale à organiser une réunion d’information sur le Programme au printemps 2018 pour que les États puissent poursuivre leurs échanges.

12.4 Le représentant clôt son intervention en déclarant que le Programme Mémoire du monde avance lentement mais sûrement dans la bonne direction, à l’image de la procession dansante de la ville d’Echternach, au Luxembourg, dont le principe est d’avancer de trois pas en avant, puis de deux pas en arrière, et ainsi de suite.

13. Le représentant de la France souscrit aux propos du représentant allemand. Soulignant qu’il ne faut pas passer en force sur ces sujets, il soutient les propositions formulées par son homologue pour trouver un dénouement heureux au Programme Mémoire du monde.

14. The representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran, praising the excellent work done by the Chairpersons of the FA and PX Commissions, said that UNESCO should not dwell on controversies over marginal

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issues but should focus its time and energy on its core mandate.

15. Le Président remercie M. Seddoh pour son travail à la tête de la Commission du programme et des relations extérieures, Commission complexe qui doit traiter de sujets difficiles.

Joint meeting of the Programme and External Relations (PX) Commission and the Finance and Administrative (FA) Commission: report and draft decisions recommended to the Executive Board (202 EX/51)

Item 5: Follow-up to decisions and resolutions adopted by the Executive Board and the General Conference at their previous sessions Item 5.II: Evaluation issues: Periodic report on Internal Oversight Service (IOS) evaluations (202 EX/5 Part II Rev.)

Draft decision in paragraph 2 of document 202 EX/51 Item 5.III: Management issues Item 5.III.C: Structured financing dialogue Draft decision in paragraph 3 of document 202 EX/51 Item 13: Situation of the International Fund for the Promotion of Culture (IFPC) (202 EX/13) Draft decision in paragraph 4 of document 202 EX/51 Item 19: Draft programme and Budget for 2018-2021 (39 C/5) (Draft 39 C/5; 202 EX/19; 202 EX/19.INF; 202 EX/19.INF.2)

Draft decision in paragraph 5 of document 202 EX/51 Item 20: Report by the Executive Board on its activities and programme implementation Item 20.II: Implementation of the current programme and budget (38 C/5), with results achieved in 2014-2016 (202 EX/20 Part II)


16.1 Sra. Sol de Pool (El Salvador) (Presidenta de la Comisión Administrativa y de Hacienda) in extenso:

Voy a empezar brevemente en español. Señor Presidente de la Conferencia General, señor Presidente del Consejo Ejecutivo, señora Directora General, excelencias, estimados colegas: muy buenos días a todos. Tuve el gran honor de copresidir, la reunión conjunta de la Comisión del Programa y de Relaciones Exteriores y de la Comisión Administrativa y de Hacienda del Consejo Ejecutivo de la UNESCO junto con mi colega y buen amigo el Excmo. profesor Komlavi Francisco Seddoh, de Togo.

(16.1) Ms Sol de Pool (El Salvador) (Chairperson of the Finance and Administrative Commission in extenso (translation from the Spanish):

I am going to begin, briefly, in Spanish. Mr President of the General Conference, Mr Chairperson of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General, Excellencies, dear colleagues, a very good day to you all. I had the great honour of co-chairing the joint meeting of the Programme and External Relations (PX) and Finance and Administrative (FA) Commissions of the Executive Board of UNESCO with my colleague and good friend,

His Excellency Professor Komlavi Francisco Seddoh of Togo.

(Ms Sol de Pool continues in English)

16.2 Dear colleagues, in the joint meeting of the PX and FA Commissions of the Executive Board of UNESCO, I had the honour to chair item 19, for the part related to budgetary issues, and items 5.III and 5.II. I will therefore mention some of the highlights that we wish to bring to your attention. I have done my utmost to include the most salient elements of our discussions and I should like to apologize in advance in case I have inadvertently omitted something important.

16.3 Dear colleagues, my intervention will be followed by that of His Excellency Professor Seddoh on the items he chaired. The list of items can be found in document 202 EX/51, which contains the draft decisions recommended by the joint meeting. At the end of our joint report, we would like to propose that the Executive Board globally adopt the draft decisions contained in document 202 EX/51.

16.4 We started the work of the joint meeting by examining item 19 “Draft Programme and Budget for 2018-2021 (39 C/5)”, which I co-chaired with Professor Seddoh. Document 202 EX/19 presented the outcome of our deliberations during the previous session of the Executive Board, as well as our work during the two meetings of the open-ended working group held on 29 June and 6 September 2017. The final text of the decision to be adopted by the Executive Board will be transmitted to the General Conference in the form of document 39 C/6 Add. entitled “Recommendations by the Executive Board on the Draft Programme and Budget for 2018-2021 – Addendum”. The Commission therefore started its work by reviewing draft decision 202/EX/FA/PX/DR.19.3, concerning budgetary issues, which had been tabled by a large number of members and extensively discussed behind the scenes to reach wide consensus. Martin Luther King said that “a genuine leader is not a searcher of consensus but a moulder of consensus”. In this case, genuine collective leadership was exercised to shape the consensus and I would like to salute all those who spared no efforts to reach the consensual and constructive wording. In the current context, I believe, this way of exercising collective leadership and collective wisdom portends the future. That was all the more visible because the very recent withdrawal of two Member States could have cast a shadow on our deliberations. It was important to be frank and forthright as to the changes that would be required due to those events and duly reflect them in the document in a clear and transparent manner so that the Executive Board could provide clear guidance to the General Conference. In the ensuing debate and in response to queries from three members, the Secretariat suggested that all budget figures in the draft decision be put in brackets so that the correct ones could be added, after careful analysis and calculations, prior to the 39th session of the General Conference. Such changes, including allowing for different assessment levels between the first and second years of the 39 C/5 period, would be introduced without changing the overall spirit of consensus on the draft decision. Furthermore, with respect to the scale of assessments, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) clarified and confirmed that while there would be no change in the scale of assessments for 2018, in 2019 it was expected that there would be a periodic revision of the budget ceiling and scale of assessments in

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the United Nations system, the results of which would be known only in late 2018. Moreover, following the suggestion of one member, it was agreed that reference to the total budget be turned into “integrated budget framework” to reflect full alignment with a quadrennial comprehensive policy review (QCPR) request of 2012 and 2016.

16.5 For the sake of clarity and transparency and to take into account the withdrawal of membership, the Secretariat added two paragraphs related to the impact of the withdrawal. The paragraphs related to the fact that the Secretariat would present to the upcoming 39th session of the General Conference the necessary technical downward adjustments to the appropriation table to take into account the effective dates of withdrawal of memberships and present assessed contributions for each year of the biennium 2018-19, and that the Board would recommend to the General Conference that it request the Director-General to present to the 204th session of the Board a plan for the implementation of document 39 C/5, taking into account the adjusted budget levels. As I once again laud the spirit of consensus that prevailed, I would be remiss if I failed to mention the relentless but steadfast action of the representative of Algeria, Mr Nassim Mohand Amer. The representative of Algeria himself had thanked all the members and the Secretariat, which had worked hard to reach the decision today, noting that one spirit had prevailed: the interest of the Organization. He had also stated that while the Commission had done what it had to for the sake of the Organization, which deserved and was in urgent need of renewal, despite shrinking resources, it was now a change in state of mind that was expected and there was a need for collective responsibility to bring that about. We could not agree on what he meant in terms of definitions or timing, but we all agreed on the fact that the Organization deserved as much time and energy as possible to be devoted to it and invested in it. Quoting the words of Professor Jacques Attali on the need for a UNESCO of renewal, audacity and rejection of precariousness, and for not letting the Organization sleepwalk, the representative underlined that what was needed was not means or budgetary techniques, but fresh mentalities. I am certain that those words find an echo within this august assembly. Following the examination of the draft decision on the programmatic part, chaired by the PX Chairperson, we turned to reviewing the document on item 19 in its entirety, containing the result of the work of the open-ended working group on draft document 39 C/5. The budget section was dealt with by the above-mentioned draft decision, and we went directly to the review of the draft decision appearing in the document. A small amendment introduced by one member to paragraph 35 related to Volume 2, where UNESCO’s ROAM principles were listed, as per 38 C/Resolution 56. In the end, I could pronounce out loud “Habemus 39 C/6 Add.”.

16.6 We then turned to item 5.III.C “Structured Financing Dialogue”, and nine members took the floor. While expressing thanks for the contributions provided to support UNESCO’s mandates, the room called for structured financing dialogues that were interactive, inclusive and with wide geographical representation. Decentralized consultations should be anchored into a house-wide fund mobilization strategy. Speakers welcomed the presentation by the sectors but called for visually appealing and coherent communication with strong messages about UNESCO’s added value.

Questions were also raised on the dialogues with non-Member State partners, notably the private sector. The issue of competition between national offices, regional offices and Headquarters in approaching potential donors and raising funds was evoked by one speaker. One member also welcomed the External Auditor’s comment that the resource mobilization function should be placed at the highest level of the Organization. While un-earmarking of contributions was obviously desirable, it was not so in reality as most funds were provided for a specific purpose. Therefore, it would be a challenge for UNESCO to ensure that all programme sectors and expected results receive the financing they need. It was underlined that donors should provide funding only for the programmes that had been adopted by UNESCO’s Member States. The Secretariat reassured members that the recommendations from the External Auditor and those from the Internal Oversight Service (IOS) went in that direction and that the Secretariat was developing a resource mobilization strategy structured around the needs of the Organization as they appeared in the C/5 document, and clearly spelled out in the funding gap. UNESCO would only enter into dialogue with donors after priorities for fundraising had been fully defined. Several members asked whether an evaluation of the structured financing dialogue had been planned by the Secretariat and expressed the need for such an evaluation after the first biennium to include lessons learned for the future in the preparation of such exercises. Members paid careful attention to the recurrence of the structured financing dialogue consultations and questioned whether it was appropriate for them to take place once a year, given the UNESCO budget structure, and whether those were pledging conferences. The representative of the Director-General underlined that the structured financing dialogue had become a key moment in the preparation of document 39 C/5, since it was a reflection of future needs, and it contributed directly to an understanding of areas where there was most need for resources. He made reference also to other United Nations agencies that held annual sessions to look at financial issues to give guidance on resource mobilization. The Secretariat welcomed the idea of adding one day to each session of the Executive Board for the structured financing dialogue, if the corresponding resources were available. One member underlined that transparency was key and mentioned how important it was for UNESCO to provide updates to Member States through the dedicated UNESCO Transparency Portal every six months, as well as to provide a succinct outcome document concerning all the breakaway sessions mentioned in paragraph 18. Those preoccupations were reflected in the wording of the draft decision, where it was added that the structured financing dialogue should be a comprehensive, coherent and Organization-wide endeavour; that the funding should be in full alignment with the activities and priorities of the C/5 document; and that transparency was a key factor across the whole process. In addition, reference was made in the decision to the provisional yearly frequency of the structured financing dialogue, pending the outcome of a review by the Internal Oversight Service (IOS).

16.7 When we turned to item 5.II “Periodic report on Internal Oversight Service (IOS) evaluations”, members agreed to move directly to consideration of the decision, in view of both the excellent document and the excellent debate held at the intersessional meeting of the Executive Board in September 2017. Two speakers recalled that, during the intersessional meeting, they had expressed reservations on a number of recommendations by IOS,

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and requested assurance that the Executive Board would be consulted on the follow-up to any recommendations with which Member States did not agree, such as on the recommendations regarding the discontinuation or refocusing of the mandate of the International Basic Sciences Programme (IBSP). They requested clarification as to whether paragraph 3 of the decision was sufficiently in line with such an understanding of prior consultation with Member States, or if it required amendment. The Director of IOS confirmed that the current text already included the requirement for such consultation through an internal process with the Member States, and the Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences (ADG/SC) assured members that despite the sector’s disagreement with reference to continuing IBSP, any change in the Statutes of IBSP would require prior consultation with Member States. Members therefore agreed with the current wording of paragraph 3 but requested inclusion of the discussion in the oral report. Another member welcomed the report and related decision but proposed an additional paragraph to request reviews by IOS of any time-bound polices before the end of the period. One speaker supported the amendment, but suggested midterm reviews to be more appropriate to allow corrective action. The Director of IOS clarified that midterm reviews were management’s responsibility and current IOS capacity would only allow for final evaluations that would – in addition to process-reviews at midterm – also look at the achievements in terms of outcomes and results.

16.8 Now, Mr Chairperson, as I conclude and with your permission and before giving the floor to my esteemed PX colleague, I would like to express my gratitude to those who contributed to the success of our work. Let me start, Mr Chairperson, by thanking you. As ever, your support and guidance for the work of our Commission has been invaluable. I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to His Excellency Professor Seddoh, Ms Jaya Conhye-Soobrayen and the PX Commission team: with the tight time constraints and numerous items on the agenda, the collaborative spirit was key for the success of this joint meeting of the PX and FA Commissions. This is my last report as Chairperson of the FA Commission as the biennium closes, and I will definitely miss the teams that have accompanied me in this adventure. For the incredible support over these last two years and for the current session in particular, I would like to thank Ms Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO, for all her assistance in rallying everyone for the working group on document 39 C/6; the Deputy Director-General, who provided great guidance in the fiscal discussions; the colleagues of the Secretariat who provided us with all necessary input and clarifications to carry out our work effectively; Mr Didier Migaud, First President of the Cours de Comptes, and his impressive team for their enlightening reports, recommendations and replies; the Secretariat of the Executive Board, in particular Ms Karima Bekri-Lisner, Ms Susana Sam-Vargas and their teams, for their constant support; the interpreters, translators, screen-typists, document production unit, room clerks and technicians, on all of whom, while they work in the shadows, we entirely depend for the smooth functioning of our work; H.E. Ambassador Antonio Maynard, Permanent Delegate of Saint-Kitts and Nevis, co-Chairperson of the FA Commission; and Mr Le Saux, Director of the Bureau of Strategic Planning (DIR/BSP) for his excellent collaboration during the working group on document 39 C/6 and other related consultations. I also wish to thank

the Secretary of the FA Commission, Mr Sachin Bhatt, a man who not only loves all financial concepts, but is a lover of the classics and fine poetry –my gratitude to you for having a steady hand and advising me during the session; to my dear Anna Bonetti, for the Italian flair imparted to the English oral reports and for her attention to detail; to my dear Ana Iglesias-Morel, for her Spanish charm and fine attention to detail that made the running of the Commission impeccable; to my Aztec warriors, Juan Frias-Velatti and Juan Pablo Ramirez-Miranda for keeping me focused and on the right pages in my scenario and for handling all operative details during the session. I also wish to extend my gratitude and best wishes to my Viking warrior, the fabulous Mr Eero Porko, who created and led the “dream team” with flair and Nordic efficiency. I want to mention again that the commissions can only work efficiently if there are good teams working with us, and I cannot repeat this enough. All the members of these teams should be able to add to their CVs their experience in the commissions and committees and have this element strongly weighted in evaluating them for promotion in their UNESCO career. The next Chairpersons of the FA and PX Commissions are going to be deeply grateful to their teams, because without them, we cannot work and the commissions cannot take any decisions. I address this in particular to the Director of the Bureau of Human Resources Management (DIR/HRM) and wish to emphasize the complex work that this participation entails and to recognize the prestige that these teams of professionals deserve.

16.9 Mr Chairperson, I have come to the end of my presentation. As Seneca said, “every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end”. Now, with your permission, I would like to hand over the floor to my esteemed co-Chairperson, the Chairperson of the PX Commission.

17.1 M. Seddoh (Togo) (Président de la Commission du programme et des relations extérieures) in extenso :

Monsieur le Président du Conseil exécutif, Monsieur le Président de la Conférence générale, Madame la Directrice générale, chers collègues, j’ai l’honneur de vous présenter les conclusions de la réunion conjointe des Commissions FA et PX que j’ai coprésidée avec ma très estimée collègue, Mme Lorena Sol de Pool, sur les points que j’ai eu l’honneur de présider. Il s’agit des points examinés lors de la réunion conjointe du 16 octobre 2017, à savoir les points 19, 20 Partie II et 13. Mon rapport se concentre sur les débats et les principales suggestions formulées par les délégués lors de l’examen de ces points.

17.2 En ce qui concerne le point 19, la Commission a examiné le projet de décision 202 EX/FA/PX/DR.19.1 concernant le Programme hydrologique international. Dix-neuf États membres et un observateur ont pris la parole sur ce point. La grande majorité des délégués ont soutenu la recommandation faite à la Conférence générale d’approuver la création d'un axe d’action autonome dédié à l'eau afin d'accroître la visibilité de l'UNESCO et de son PHI, notamment à la lumière des initiatives pour une architecture de l'ONU sur l'eau. Il a été rappelé que le projet de résolution avait été proposé par le Conseil du PHI et qu’il était nécessaire de l’approuver afin de mieux aligner le Projet de 39 C/5 sur le Programme 2030, en particulier l’ODD 6. La nécessité d'une meilleure coordination sur les questions liées à l'eau entre les représentants des États membres auprès de l'UNESCO et de l'ONU a été largement soulignée. Quelques États

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membres, tout en affirmant leur soutien au PHI, ont cependant exprimé des réserves quant à l’introduction à ce stade tardif d’une proposition de changement aussi important dans la structure du C/5. Rappelant les précédentes décisions du Conseil exécutif en faveur d’un 39 C/5 plus ciblé, comportant un nombre restreint d'axes d'action et de résultats escomptés, ces délégués ont exprimé la crainte que l'ajout d'un nouvel axe d'action n’oblige à modifier la structure déjà approuvée du Projet de 39 C/5. Malgré ces réserves, ces délégués ont suivi la majorité de la conjointe en adoptant le projet de décision proposé sur ce point, qui figure au paragraphe 5, Partie V, du rapport écrit.

17.3 Sur le point 20 Partie II, « Exécution du Programme et budget en cours (38 C/5), avec indication des résultats obtenus en 2014-2016 », la Commission a examiné directement le projet de décision recommandé par la Commission, qui figure au paragraphe 6 du rapport écrit.

17.4 La Commission a poursuivi ses travaux avec l’examen du point 13, « Situation du Fonds international pour la promotion de la culture (FIPC) ». Dix-neuf États membres et quatre observateurs ont pris la parole. Les délégués et les observateurs ont souligné le rôle joué par le FIPC dans le domaine de la culture, notamment en faveur des jeunes artistes des pays en développement, ainsi que sa contribution à la visibilité de l’Organisation. Une grande majorité des intervenants ont souhaité reporter la décision sur l’avenir du FIPC à la 40e session de la Conférence générale, afin de permettre au Secrétariat de mener des consultations en ligne transparentes et inclusives – tant auprès du Conseil d’administration du Fonds que de l’ensemble des États membres – avant de se prononcer définitivement. Plusieurs délégués ont exprimé le souhait que la nouvelle Directrice générale examine de manière approfondie la situation du FIPC. Plusieurs intervenants ont demandé des clarifications sur ce qu’il adviendrait du Fonds une fois le financement épuisé. Un délégué a fait état du coût élevé de la gestion du Fonds et s’est déclaré favorable à la recommandation du Commissaire aux comptes d’engager la procédure de clôture du FIPC au terme de l’exercice 2018, afin d’éviter la fragmentation des ressources et de permettre au Secrétariat de se concentrer sur l’application des conventions. La décision recommandée par la Commission sur ce point figure au paragraphe 4 du rapport écrit.

17.5 Chers collègues, je vous invite à consulter le document 202 EX/51 qui contient toutes les décisions recommandées par la réunion conjointe des Commissions FA et PX.

17.6 Monsieur le Président du Conseil, Monsieur le Président de la Conférence générale, Madame la Directrice générale, chers collègues, avant de conclure mon rapport oral et comme je l’avais annoncé à la fin de mon rapport sur la Commission PX, je souhaiterais exprimer à nouveau mes remerciements aux distingués membres des Commissions PX et FA pour leur patience, leur coopération et leur engagement envers notre Organisation. Je voudrais remercier tout particulièrement le Président du Conseil pour son soutien et son engagement personnel dans la recherche de solutions consensuelles sur les points complexes que vous connaissez et que nous avons examinés en Commission PX. Si le Président ne s’était pas investi personnellement, je suis persuadé que nous n’aurions pas terminé nos travaux et qu’il aurait fallu organiser une réunion

supplémentaire de la Commission FA. Monsieur le Président, nous avons encore une fois pu apprécier vos talents de diplomate et de négociateur averti. Je remercie la Directrice générale qui, avec l’aide des sous-directeurs généraux et des directeurs, a fourni aux deux commissions des informations et des documents pertinents, ainsi que les clarifications nécessaires. Cela a grandement facilité nos travaux. Permettez-moi également d’exprimer ma gratitude à S. E. Mme Lorena Sol de Pool, distinguée représentante d’El Salvador auprès de l’UNESCO, pour avoir procédé à mes côtés à un examen méthodique et approfondi de tous les points de la réunion conjointe, ce qui a facilité les délibérations de notre Commission. Je tiens à dire que j’ai pris un très grand plaisir à coprésider cette réunion avec elle, et je la remercie à nouveau pour son soutien sans faille. Je remercie M. Ebenezer Njoh Mouelle d’avoir assuré avec compétence et dévouement sa mission de Président temporaire. J’adresse en outre mes remerciements à l’équipe du Secrétariat de la Commission PX, dirigée par Mme Jaya Conhye-Soobrayen et composée de M. Bernard Combes et de Mmes Ethelle Mouko-Wissa, Liliana Simionescu et Margarida Tor. Il s’agissait également d’une « dream team », au même titre que celle qui a été annoncée par Mme Sol de Pool. Je voudrais également remercier l’équipe du Secrétariat de la Commission FA, menée par M. Sachin Bhatt, pour son excellente coopération. Je m’associe entièrement aux remerciements adressés par Mme Sol de Pool et j’adhère surtout aux propositions qu’elle a formulées en ce qui concerne la reconnaissance du travail effectué par les deux secrétariats. Mes collègues se sont investis sans compter, et en présence de la Directrice générale, il conviendrait de reconnaître les qualités de ce personnel dévoué.

17.7 Mesdames et Messieurs, Monsieur le Président, permettez-moi de terminer ma présentation par un mot personnel. Ce rapport oral est le dernier que j’aurai l’honneur de présenter devant cette auguste assemblée. C’est également la dernière participation de notre délégation au Conseil exécutif. Je voudrais vous dire tout le plaisir que j’ai eu à travailler en votre compagnie, et saluer le climat de sérénité et de franche collaboration dans lequel nos nombreuses discussions se sont déroulées. Grâce à vous tous, nous avons réussi à privilégier le consensus comme moyen d’adoption de nos décisions. Cela n’a pas été facile, car nous sommes souvent partis de positions opposées, et il a fallu que chacune des parties fasse des compromis pour atteindre un consensus acceptable. Je pense que c’est la manière dont l’UNESCO doit poursuivre son travail. Le consensus doit être le mode de décision privilégié de notre Organisation. Je voudrais présenter mes excuses aux délégations qui ont été parfois contrariées parce que nous n’avions pas accepté de leur donner la parole autant de fois qu’elles l’auraient souhaité. Il nous fallait tenir compte du temps disponible.

17.8 Mesdames et Messieurs, l’UNESCO est une organisation de tout premier ordre pour mon pays mais aussi je pense, pour l’ensemble de ses États membres. Nous souhaitons que tout soit mis en œuvre afin qu’elle continue à aller de l’avant malgré les contraintes auxquelles elle se trouve parfois confrontée. Je souhaite bonne chance à notre Organisation ainsi qu’au prochain Conseil exécutif qui sera formé à l’issue de la Conférence générale.

18.1 Le Président remercie M. Seddoh pour la sagesse, la gentillesse et la délicatesse avec lesquelles il

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a mené les travaux de sa Commission et de la réunion conjointe, et en particulier pour les paroles aimables qu’il a eues à son endroit. Il espère que l’UNESCO pourra continuer de profiter de son expérience après que son pays aura quitté le Conseil exécutif, sa mémoire institutionnelle étant très chère à l’Organisation.

18.2 Continuing in English, he recalled that, pursuant to Rule 47 of the Rules of Procedure of the Executive Board, the Board should adopt the entire set of draft decisions recommended by each plenary commission as a whole, unless a Board Member requested that a specific decision be adopted separately. Seeing no such request, he took it that the Board wished to adopt the entire set of draft decisions contained in document 202 EX/51.


20. La representante de México dice que su país, como integrante de la Mesa del PHI, desea manifestar su agradecimiento a los 34 miembros del Consejo y a los observadores que han respaldado la propuesta de México relacionada con la seguridad de los recursos hídricos. Gracias al apoyo de todos ellos la Conferencia General, cuando en su 39ª reunión examine el Proyecto de Programa y Presupuesto para 2018-2021, se detendrá también en esta cuestión, que merece ocupar un lugar de especial relevancia en los programas de la UNESCO.

(20) The representative of Mexico said that her country, as a Member of the Bureau of the International Hydrological Programme (IHP), wished to express its appreciation to the 34 Members of the IHP Intergovernmental Council and the observers that had supported Mexico’s proposal on water security. As a result of their unanimous support the General Conference, when considering the Draft Programme and Budget for 2018–2021 at its 39th session, would also devote time to the matter, which deserved to occupy a particularly important place in UNESCO’s programmes.

21. The representative of Oman commended the Chairperson of the Finance and Administrative Commission (FA) for her excellent leadership, her diligence and her strong commitment to reaching consensus on complex agenda items, and for lightening the atmosphere of the meetings with her sense of humour. Ms Sol de Pool would be missed, both as Chairperson of the FA Commission and as an active Member of the Executive Board. Furthermore, as a chairperson herself, she fully agreed that without the assistance of a team, she could not have performed her job.


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TWELFTH MEETING

Wednesday 18 October 2017 at 3.10 p.m.


Withdrawal of the United States of America from UNESCO

1.1 The Chairperson said that in the private meeting held the previous day, the Legal Adviser had summarized the legal aspects of the United States’ decision to withdraw from the Organization. However, the matter had been deemed so important that it had been decided to continue the discussion in a public meeting.

1.2 For many Members of the Board, himself included, the news had not come as a complete surprise, but it had still been a shock. He had been particularly surprised by the timing of the announcement. The news had reached everyone at UNESCO on Thursday 12 October, early in the morning, and the official notification had come later, at 3 p.m., the day after the Executive Board had adopted, by consensus for the first time since 2011, its decisions on the items relating to the Middle East. It had also come at a crucial juncture in the life of the Executive Board as it voted to nominate the next Director-General of UNESCO.

1.3 Some aspects of the decision to withdraw would need to be addressed more formally by the Board at its 204th session the following spring. As one representative had said during the private meeting, UNESCO was like a family, and the consequences of its decision were similar to those resulting from a divorce between family members. Almost immediately after the official announcement had been made, the Director-General had issued a statement calling the withdrawal of the United States “a loss to UNESCO”, “a loss to the United Nations family” and “a loss for multilateralism”.

2.1 The Director-General said that the official announcement of the United States’ withdrawal had been delivered to her in the form of a letter from Mr Rex Tillerson, Secretary of State of the United States. Immediately after receiving the notification, she had issued a statement in which she had stressed that the withdrawal would be a loss for the Organization. She deeply regretted the decision to withdraw. If UNESCO was to be a universal platform for international cooperation, in particular in the fields of heritage protection, the combat against extremism, education in service of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and peace – the Organization’s highest goal – it would need all its Member States, including the United States. Despite the 2013 decision of the Government of the United States to stop paying its contribution to UNESCO, the Organization had continued to develop a strong working relationship with the United States, involving many partners in both the public and private sectors, all of which was, she believed, greatly appreciated by the American people. Since the United States wished to remain with the Organization as an observer, UNESCO would of course continue to work with it and with all the stakeholders involved. The Secretariat was currently endeavouring to identify the legal, procedural, budgetary and financial implications of the decision to withdraw.

3.1 The Legal Adviser said that since the Organization had only been notified recently of the United States’ decision to withdraw, she could only make some preliminary remarks. The legal and procedural issues

arising from that decision would fall within the purview of various services, including the Bureau of Human Resources Management (HRM), the Bureau of Financial Management (BFM), the Bureau of Strategic Planning (BSP) and possibly also the Secretariat of the Governing Bodies (GBS). Document 23 C/INF.21, dated 14 October 1985, was a useful reference as it dealt with the constitutional provisions relating to withdrawal; previous withdrawals from the Organization; the impact of withdrawal on the Organization’s governing bodies and activities; relations between the Organization and the withdrawing State and the budgetary and financial consequences of withdrawal. With regard to the latter, the withdrawal of a Member State from UNESCO did not alter its financial obligations to the Organization.

3.2 The planned withdrawal would decrease the number of Member States on the Executive Board to 57. Despite the stipulation in the UNESCO Constitution that the Board was a 58-member body, when the membership of the Board had dropped below that level in the 1980s as a result of Member State withdrawals, the vacant seats had not been filled.

3.3 The United States would maintain its status of Member State and remain a Member of the Executive Board until 31 December 2018, the date announced for its withdrawal. While the UNESCO Constitution provided for only two categories of membership – Member State and Associate Member –, in the 1980s, countries that had withdrawn from the Organization had been granted Observer Mission status. In the specific case of the United States, following its withdrawal from the Organization, the Board had, at its extraordinary session in February 1985, authorized the Director-General to provide facilities to the United States Observer Mission. At its 23rd session in November 1985, the General Conference had included in the list of criteria to be considered in determining whether to grant observer facilities to a non-Member State, the interests of the Organization and the willingness of the State to cooperate with the Organization and to defray the costs of the facilities granted to it. In respect of the planned United States withdrawal in January 2018, the Organization would need to consult with the host State about the matter of the privileges and immunities of the United States in France, once it was no longer a Member State of UNESCO.

3.4 In terms of human resources management, while there had been no change in employment status for staff members of States that had withdrawn from the Organization in the 1980s, those withdrawals had had an impact on new recruitment, quotas and geographic distribution. In preparation for the withdrawal of the United States in January 2018, a review would be needed of the Organization’s activities involving the United States, including meetings held in the United States; the use of contractors, suppliers or consultants based in the United States; and the participation of the United States in the Organization’s committees and programmes.

4. The representative of Uganda said that in order to serve the best interests of the Organization, which was resilient and of great value to humanity, the Executive Board would need to determine how to tackle climate change and provide appropriate advice on that matter to the General Conference at its next session.

5.1 El representante de la Argentina señala que, a catorce meses de que tome efecto la decisión de los Estados Unidos de América, lo que se impone es negociar, cosa que incumbe a la Directora General con el

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apoyo del Consejo, y a este respecto desea compartir una serie de reflexiones previas.

5.2 Cuando se aborda una negociación, conviene ponerse ante todo en el lugar del otro, pues el éxito del proceso radica en convencerlo de que los intereses de ambas partes son coincidentes, lo que en este caso es del todo cierto: la UNESCO necesita a los Estados Unidos como estos necesitan a la UNESCO. La Organización no fue concebida como un ámbito de pensamiento hegemónico, sino como un foro en el que confrontar ideas y conciliar posiciones.

5.3 El Sr. Trump ha declarado que tiene la intención de retirar a su país de toda organización que ponga en peligro la seguridad de los Estados Unidos o restrinja su margen de acción, lo que a todas luces no es el caso de la UNESCO. Del Presidente de los Estados Unidos se dice que es discriminatorio y refractario a la educación pública, que nada le importa la ciencia y que no entiende el problema del cambio climático, pero él atribuye esta mala imagen a intereses periodísticos y políticos espurios. En el seno de la UNESCO, el Gobierno estadounidense tiene toda latitud para explicar y defender sus políticas, cosa que no puede hacer con un simple tweet. Por el mero hecho de reintegrarse en la UNESCO los Estados Unidos demostrarían que sí les importan la educación, la ciencia y la cultura. Y este es, a juicio del orador, el argumento que hay que hacer valer en las negociaciones.

(5.1) Le représentant de l’Argentine indique qu’à quatorze mois de la prise d’effet de la décision des États-Unis d’Amérique, il est impératif de négocier, tâche qui revient à la Directrice générale avec l’appui du Conseil exécutif, et qu’à cet égard, il souhaiterait partager quelques observations préliminaires.

(5.2) Au moment d’entamer une négociation, il convient avant tout que chacun essaye de se mettre à la place de l’autre, car le succès du processus réside dans la faculté de convaincre l’autre que les intérêts de chaque partie sont concordants, ce qui, en l’espèce, apparaît comme une certitude : l’UNESCO a autant besoin des États-Unis que ces derniers ont besoin d’elle. L’Organisation n’a pas été conçue comme un lieu de pensée hégémonique, mais comme un forum où les idées se confrontent et les positions se rapprochent.

(5.3) M. Trump a déclaré qu’il avait l’intention de retirer son pays de toute organisation compromettant la sécurité des États-Unis ou restreignant leur marge de manœuvre, ce qui de toute évidence n’est pas le cas de l’UNESCO. On dit du Président des États-Unis qu’il a une attitude discriminante et hostile à l’égard de l’enseignement public, qu’il ne s’intéresse absolument pas à la science et qu’il n’entend rien au problème du changement climatique. M. Trump, quant à lui, attribue cette mauvaise image à de fausses allégations dictées par des intérêts médiatiques ou politiques. Au sein de l’UNESCO, le Gouvernement des États-Unis a toute latitude pour expliquer et défendre ses positions, ce qu’il ne peut faire d’un simple tweet. Par le simple fait de réintégrer l’UNESCO, les États-Unis démontreraient leur véritable attachement à l’éducation, à la science et à la culture. Tel est l’argument qu’il conviendrait, selon l’orateur, de faire valoir lors des négociations.

6. The representative of Brazil said that the Members of the Board had been greatly shocked at the

news of the United States’ withdrawal, especially since it had arrived at a moment when the Organization was dealing with its most sensitive political issues in a constructive manner. Her Government regretted the decision: the United States was a very important partner for most countries, particularly her own and, in addition, it was a founding member of the Organization and had participated constructively in it for most of the 72 years of its existence. At the same time, the decision was perhaps understandable as part of the United States’ move towards unilateralism, as demonstrated by its withdrawal from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) with the European Union, and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change.

7.1 La representante de España suscribe las palabras de la Directora General acerca de la necesidad de analizar la nueva situación con detenimiento. A su entender, conviene distinguir entre una serie de decisiones que es preciso tomar rápidamente, en la 39ª reunión de la Conferencia General, y otras cuyo examen puede quedar para una de las dos reuniones que el Consejo Ejecutivo celebrará en 2018.

7.2 A este respecto, invocando la necesidad de pragmatismo, propone que antes de la 39ª reunión de la Conferencia General los miembros del Consejo puedan mantener un encuentro con la Secretaría para tratar una serie de aspectos financieros y presupuestarios que en principio ha dejado pendientes para que la Conferencia General los examine. Tras recordar que en la reunión conjunta de las comisiones FA y PX se comunicó al Consejo que no se le iban a presentar nuevas cifras, señala que semejante encuentro serviría para ir preparando una de las primeras decisiones que los Estados Miembros en su conjunto deberán tomar en la venidera reunión de la Conferencia General, a saber, la referida a los asuntos presupuestarios.

(7.1) La représentante de l’Espagne souscrit aux propos de la Directrice générale concernant la nécessité d’analyser attentivement la nouvelle situation. Selon elle, il conviendrait de faire la distinction entre les décisions qui doivent être prises rapidement, à la 39e session de la Conférence générale, et celles dont l’examen peut attendre l’une des deux sessions que le Conseil exécutif tiendra en 2018.

(7.2) À cet égard, invoquant la nécessité de faire preuve de pragmatisme, elle propose que les membres du Conseil exécutif aient la possibilité, avant la 39e session de la Conférence générale, de se réunir avec le Secrétariat afin d’aborder une série de questions d’ordre financier et budgétaire qui, en principe, ont été laissées en suspens pour examen par la Conférence générale. Rappelant qu’à l’occasion de leur réunion conjointe, les Commissions FA et PX ont indiqué au Conseil qu’il n’allait pas leur être présenté de nouveaux chiffres, elle déclare qu’une telle réunion permettrait de préparer l’une des premières décisions que les États membres, dans leur ensemble, auront à prendre à la prochaine session de la Conférence générale, à savoir la décision relative aux questions budgétaires.

8. The Chairperson asked the representative of Spain if she was requesting an information meeting, or an extraordinary meeting of the Executive Board.

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9. La representante de España aclara que su propuesta se refiere a una reunión de carácter informativo, centrada específicamente en las cuestiones de índole presupuestaria y financiera que el Consejo ha dejado de lado para que la Conferencia General se pronuncie al respecto. Ulteriormente podrían seguir otras reuniones del mismo tenor, toda vez que la situación, como queda dicho, plantea también interrogantes en otros muchos ámbitos. Pero lo más urgente, a su entender, son las cuestiones presupuestarias, que la Conferencia General va a tener que zanjar rápidamente.

(9) La représentante de l’Espagne précise que sa proposition fait référence à une réunion d’information portant spécifiquement sur les questions d’ordre budgétaire et financier qui ont été mises de côté par le Conseil afin que la Conférence générale se prononce à leur sujet. Par la suite, d’autres réunions du même type pourraient être organisées, étant donné que la situation, comme cela a été indiqué, soulève également des questions dans de nombreux autres domaines. Mais selon elle, l’urgence réside dans les questions budgétaires, que la Conférence générale devra rapidement trancher.

10.1 El representante de la República Dominicana, tras recordar que lleva apenas unos meses ejerciendo de representante en el Consejo y constatando la ímproba labor que en él se lleva a cabo, plasmada en los resultados concretos que obtienen sus órganos subsidiarios, suscribe lo manifestado por la Argentina y añade que desea compartir algunas reflexiones personales.

10.2 Desde su punto de vista, la particular coyuntura en que se encuentra la UNESCO le brinda una oportunidad de oro: con su trabajo y sus resultados, la Organización debe demostrar que no es ella la principal perjudicada, sino el país que la abandona sin aportar razones fundadas. Para ello los representantes de los Estados Miembros deben estar más unidos que nunca, entendiendo que todos, sea cual sea el tamaño de su país, se guarecen bajo un mismo techo; entendiendo que si llueve y hay una hendija, todos se mojan; y entendiendo sobre todo que el Consejo reúne a los mejores albañiles para reparar toda clase de hendijas.

(10.1) Le représentant de la République dominicaine, après avoir rappelé qu’il n’exerçait la fonction de représentant au Conseil exécutif que depuis quelques mois et constatant le travail considérable qui y est accompli et qui se reflète dans les résultats concrets obtenus par ses organes subsidiaires, souscrit aux propos de l’Argentine et ajoute qu’il souhaite faire part de quelques réflexions personnelles.

(10.2) Selon lui, la conjoncture particulière dans laquelle se trouve l’UNESCO lui offre une chance unique : par son action et ses résultats, l’Organisation doit montrer que ce n’est pas elle qui s’en trouvera la plus lésée, mais plutôt le pays qui l’abandonne sans raison valable. C’est pourquoi les représentants des États membres doivent être plus unis que jamais, étant donné que chacun d’entre eux, qu’il soit petit ou grand, s’abrite sous le même toit ; étant donné que s’il pleut et que le toit est fissuré, alors tous seront mouillés ; et surtout, étant donné que le Conseil rassemble les meilleurs maçons qui soient, capables de réparer toutes sortes de fissures.

11. The representative of the Netherlands said that the withdrawal of the United States was hardly a surprise. He would welcome information from the representative of the United States with regard to the plans his Government had in that regard.

12.1 The Director-General said that an information meeting was being planned so that the consequences of the United States’ withdrawal from the Organization could be examined in greater depth. The United States had notified the Organization of its desire to leave, but that did not mean that the relationship was ending. Rather, the two partners had to decide how to pursue their cooperation.

12.2 Albeit reluctantly, she wished to suggest that the new Director-General convene an extraordinary session of the Executive Board the following year. In cooperation with the Legal Adviser, the Bureau of Strategic Planning (BSP), the Bureau of Financial Management (BFM) and the Bureau of Human Resources Management (HRM), she was reviewing what had happened the first time the United States had withdrawn from the Organization. Nevertheless, the current situation was quite different, particularly its financial aspects.

13. The Deputy Director-General said that the Secretariat would need time to adjust all the figures affected by the United States’ withdrawal before an information meeting could be held. In respect of the budget for the next biennium, the withdrawal would not have any practical implications for the $518 million expenditure plan, as account had already been taken of non-payment of contributions by Member States. The main impact would be on the overall budget figure of $653 million, from which the United States’ contribution would be subtracted for the second year of the biennium.

14.1 La representante de El Salvador expresa la tristeza de su país por la decisión del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos de América de retirarse de la UNESCO. Se trata, huelga decirlo, de una decisión soberana, pero significa obviar el valor y las virtudes del multilateralismo, que a todos ofrece acomodo. A su juicio, los profundos y complejos efectos de dicha retirada se dejarán sentir en la preparación de la 39ª reunión de la Conferencia General, ya que la Secretaría, lejos de limitarse a presentar ajustes técnicos, deberá dar respuesta al sinfín de preguntas concretas que sin duda plantearán los Estados Miembros.

14.2 El peso de lidiar con la situación recae ahora en la señora Azoulay, propuesta para el cargo de Directora General, que de inmediato deberá empezar a trabajar para equilibrar la situación financiera de la Organización, así como en el Consejo Ejecutivo, cuyos miembros deberán colaborar estrechamente a partir de su 203ª reunión para mantener viva la institución y encontrar soluciones que permitan hacer frente a la nueva realidad.

(14.1) La représentante d’El Salvador fait part de la tristesse de son pays face à la décision du Gouvernement des États-Unis d’Amérique de se retirer de l’UNESCO. Il s’agit, bien entendu, d’une décision souveraine, mais elle implique un rejet des valeurs et des vertus du multilatéralisme, lequel profite à tous. Elle estime que les conséquences profondes et complexes de ce retrait se feront sentir lors de la préparation de la 39e session de la Conférence générale, car le Secrétariat, loin de se limiter à présenter des ajustements techniques, devra

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apporter des réponses à la myriade de questions concrètes que les États membres de manqueront pas de lui poser.

(14.2) C’est à Madame Azoulay, proposée au poste de directrice générale, qu’il incombe désormais de faire face à la situation. Elle devra commencer à travailler immédiatement au rééquilibrage de la situation financière de l’Organisation. Cela vaut également pour le Conseil exécutif, dont les membres devront étroitement collaborer, dès la 203e session, pour continuer de faire vivre l’Organisation et trouver des solutions face à la nouvelle situation.

عن أسفه لقرار الواليات املتحدة باالنسحاب، مصرأعرب ممثل ١٥ ا إذا كانتحدة عموفد الواليات املت مشريا إىل أنه قرار سيادي حيرتمه. وسأل

لة فة "دو دولتهم تعتزم االنسحاب كليا من املنظمة أم أ�ا ستحتفظ بصاملؤمتر عني علىإذا كان يت إذا كان األمر كذلك، عمافيما مراقبة". واستفسر،

ب سي نفذ االنسحا أم أن الشأن هذا العام أن يعتمد يف دورته املقبلة قرارا يف مبجرد أن تطلب الدولة املعنية ذلك. تلقائيا

(15) Le représentant de l’Égypte exprime son regret quant à la décision des États-Unis de se retirer, ajoutant qu’il s’agit là d’une décision souveraine qu’il respecte. Il demande à la délégation des États-Unis si ces derniers ont l’intention de se retirer complètement de l’Organisation, ou s’ils comptent y rester en tant qu’« État observateur ». Si tel est le cas, il se demande s’il incombe à la Conférence générale d’adopter une résolution sur la question à sa prochaine session, ou si le retrait prendra effet automatiquement du simple fait que l’État concerné en a fait la demande.

16.1 The representative of the United States of America said that the reason that the planned withdrawal had been announced so abruptly was not because the Organization had just nominated a new Director-General but rather because the press had heard of it. His Government planned to request observer status, as it had done following its notice of withdrawal in 1983. At the time, the question of whether to grant the United States observer status had been decided by the General Conference. Assuming the procedure would be the same, he wished to know whether the status of the United States after its 2018 withdrawal would be decided immediately, at the forthcoming session of the General Conference in November 2017, or in two years’ time. His Government saw the value of maintaining a status within the Organization since it would enable the United States to continue providing it with advice and expertise. It did, however, hope that the Organization would become more productive. Other Members of the Board shared, privately if not publically, his Government’s concerns about the Organization’s effectiveness, performance and future. American taxpayers would also like to be reassured that their tax dollars were being spent on worthy causes and, to that end, he recommended that UNESCO bolster its strategy for making its achievements visible.

16.2 The decision to withdraw had been under review by the United States for many months and was based on several factors. First, for legal reasons, his Government had ceased paying its assessed contributions in 2011 and currently owed UNESCO over $500 million. If the United States’ debt to UNESCO continued to grow at the rate of $80 million a year, repayment would become impossible. Second, his Government wished to see greater reform, not only at UNESCO but in the United

Nations system as a whole. Third, his Government had been extremely troubled by the decision taken by the General Conference in October 2011 (36 C/Resolution 76) to admit Palestine as a Member of UNESCO, thereby undermining the United States’ longstanding efforts to help Israel and Palestine reach a negotiated settlement. To make matters worse, the Executive Board had continued to approve non-consensual decisions that made it more difficult to reach such a settlement. The recent inscription of Hebron on the World Heritage List had further politicized the Organization, giving rise to the impression that some States regarded the inscription as more important than the Organization’s interests as a whole.

16.3 His Government wished to pursue its collaboration with UNESCO and contribute to its efforts. It had tried to compensate for not paying its dues by raising large sums of money to fund projects, in cooperation with the Organization. Notice of the planned withdrawal along with a request for comments had been sent to all Member States Many responses had already been received and he encouraged those who had not replied to study the notice carefully and communicate the tenor of the current debate to their governments.

17. The Legal Adviser said that when a State requested observer status, the Executive Board was the body that made the decision, with guidance from the General Conference.

TRIBUTES

Tribute to Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO

18.1 The Chairperson (in extenso): Madam Director-General, on 22 September 2009, at its 182nd session, the Executive Board decided to propose you as its candidate to succeed Mr Koïchiro Matsuura as UNESCO’s tenth Director-General and the first woman at the helm of this Organization. On 12 October 2009, you were appointed to this high office by the General Conference at its 35th session, and assumed your responsibilities one month later, on 15 November 2009. Since then, you have many great accomplishments to your credit. Now is the time for the Members of the Board to pay tribute to these successes, to salute you for these accomplishments and to thank you for the services you have rendered to this Organization, which we all hold close to our hearts.

18.2 Let me begin this tribute by mentioning just a few of these accomplishments, which, although memorable, do not do justice to the plethora of advances you have made. First and foremost, in the field of education, let me congratulate you for giving UNESCO such a central role in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Education has achieved prominence as a single sustainable development goal, SDG 4, thanks to your efforts. We all know that without education, there can be no development, and without sustainable development, there can be no long-lasting peace and understanding among the peoples of the world. In the natural sciences, through your leadership, UNESCO has become the go-to place in terms of science for sustainable development. Our function as a laboratory of ideas was reinforced thanks to you. Because of your advocacy, former Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon entrusted UNESCO with the Secretariat of the Scientific Advisory Board. This Board of eminent scientists helped the entire United Nations system to transition from the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),

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notably providing recommendations on the United Nations’ response to climate change and thus influencing the outcome of the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. The Scientific Advisory Board also helped to formulate opinions about and raise awareness of the ocean’s importance for our planet, especially its increasing acidification and rise in temperature, which are causing catastrophic climate events and which we witnessed as recently as this Sunday, when, for the first time, a category 3 hurricane moved to the western coast of Europe, affecting Ireland. In the field of social and human sciences, through your guidance, the Organization’s ability to affect conflict resolution and peacebuilding, especially from a humanistic perspective, was reinforced. Now, UNESCO’s expertise is being used to assist with the global fight against radicalization and to foster inclusion, especially regarding youth and marginalized groups. Organizations like the United Nations Counter-terrorism Implementation Taskforce (CTITF) readily use our input with a view to assisting Member States in formulating policies pertaining to these phenomena. It goes without saying that your determined efforts in preserving, protecting and promoting the world’s cultural heritage shall forever be remembered. In this regard, I would like to recall that you launched the #Unite4Heritage campaign in this very room. And I feel I speak on everyone’s behalf when I say that you should be applauded for the effort you made for the adoption by the United Nations Security Council of resolutions 2199 (2015) and 2347 (2017), which, in effect, make the destruction and trafficking of cultural heritage by terrorist groups, and in situations of armed conflict, war crimes. Last but not least, in the field of communication and information, it would be remiss of me not to mention the efforts deployed under your leadership to promote the safety of journalists and combat the impunity of those who attack them, which are central elements of UNESCO’s support for freedom of the press.

18.3 Throughout your term of office, Madam Director-General, the Executive Board has steadfastly supported you. We have been demanding, but our collective objective was always the same: to ensure that UNESCO maintained its rightful place within the United Nations system, despite the financial challenges we faced, and through the efficient implementation of the programme, as adopted by the General Conference, which is our constitutional role as the Board.

18.4 Dear colleagues, you have before you a red paper with the number 202 EX/PLEN/DR.1. It is entitled ‘Tribute to Ms Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO’. I would like to propose that we adopt this draft decision by acclamation.

(Applause)


20. Lithuania (Vice-Chairperson for Group II) in extenso:

Your Excellency, Madam Director-General, the members of Group II, who highly appreciate your eight-year service to UNESCO, are just some of the many you have inspired by your commitment to safeguarding the Organization’s mission and spirit. Whether the topic was UNESCO’s multilateral objectives or its concerns over cultural diversity, it benefitted from your attention and efforts. As the first ever woman to have been appointed to this office, you paved the way for energetic and professional female leadership. We can only hope that your experience and unique capabilities will remain at the

disposal of the United Nations for its further development and prosperity. Thank you very much.

21. El representante de la República Dominicana (Vicepresidente por el Grupo III) dice que desea ceder el uso de la palabra al Embajador y Delegado Permanente de Honduras, que es el autor del discurso de homenaje a la Directora General.

(21) Le représentant de la République dominicaine (Vice-Président pour le Groupe III) déclare qu’il souhaite céder la parole à l’Ambassadeur et Délégué permanent du Honduras, qui est l’auteur de l’hommage à la Directrice générale.

22.1 Honduras (Presidente del GRULAC) in extenso: Señor Embajador de la República Dominicana, señora Irina Bokova, Directora General de la UNESCO, su excelencia Michael Worbs, Presidente del Consejo Ejecutivo, señor Presidente de la Conferencia General, excelencias, señores y señoras: me honra mucho que haya recaído en Honduras, en su calidad de Presidente del Grupo de América Latina y el Caribe, el cometido de dirigir unas palabras a la Directora General en esta su última reunión del Consejo Ejecutivo de la UNESCO, organización a la que dedicó ocho años de su vida. Durante ese tiempo usted, a la cabeza de esta gran casa de la diversidad y los entendimientos, tuvo que enfrentar muchos retos de primer orden, tanto dentro como fuera de la Organización.

22.2 Sabemos que a partir de 2011 la crisis financiera debilitó la capacidad operativa de la UNESCO, pero también fue un desafío que nos obligó, a usted y a nosotros, a replantear un esquema administrativo que nos permitiera responder con austeridad y fortaleza, sin dejar de cumplir nuestro papel. Desde luego la crisis, como siempre, ha golpeado sobre todo a los más débiles, a los que más necesitan reforzar la educación, la ciencia y la cultura y a los que más esperan de la libertad de expresión y de información. Por eso, cualquier golpe a la UNESCO es un golpe a la humanidad entera.

22.3 En el ámbito externo a la Organización, en los últimos años a usted le tocó asumir la dirección en un mundo que pone en evidencia el retroceso de los valores de paz y humanismo que pregona la UNESCO, de los cuales la región de América Latina y el Caribe quiere ser y sigue siendo ejemplo. El ambiente ha estado amenazado por guerras, extremismos violentos, atentados terroristas, cambio climático agravado, crisis de miles de refugiados, el asesinato reiterado, muy común, de periodistas, la destrucción de bienes culturales emblemáticos y amenazas, ahora, de guerra nuclear. Comprendo que no ha sido fácil para usted hacer frente a estos retos, pero he de reconocer que la UNESCO siempre ha tenido una respuesta firme y ha enarbolado la bandera de la paz en cada momento de crisis.

22.4 La región de América Latina y el Caribe, a pesar de ser socialmente una de las más desiguales del mundo, es ahora una zona libre de guerras, como ha demostrado el tratado de paz firmado en Colombia entre los líderes de la guerrilla de ese país y el Presidente Juan Manuel Santos, nuestro premio Nobel de la Paz, a quien esta casa también dio la bienvenida.

22.5 Señora Directora General: el GRULAC, que es uno de los grupos más beligerantes, activos y prestos al consenso, desea agradecerle todo el apoyo brindado desde la Organización y durante todas y cada una de las visitas que ha realizado a cada uno de nuestros países. Usted ha tenido el don de ser una persona abierta, atenta

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y ponderada, que ha sabido escuchar nuestras propuestas. Nuestros presidentes, ministros, embajadores y demás funcionarios se han sentido satisfechos de sus intercambios con usted y de haber abordado ampliamente en ellos los temas que competen a la Organización en nuestra región. En nombre de América Latina y el Caribe, muchas gracias. Le deseamos muchos éxitos y paz en su vida profesional y familiar. Gracias.

(22.1) Honduras (Président du GRULAC) in extenso (traduit de l’espagnol) :

Monsieur l’Ambassadeur de la République dominicaine, Madame Irina Bokova, Directrice générale de l’UNESCO, S. E. Michael Worbs, Président du Conseil exécutif, Monsieur le Président de la Conférence générale, Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs, je suis très honoré que le Honduras, en sa qualité de Président du Groupe de l’Amérique latine et des Caraïbes (GRULAC), ait été chargé d’adresser quelques mots à la Directrice générale, à l’occasion de sa dernière réunion du Conseil exécutif de l’UNESCO. Durant les huit années qu’elle a consacrées à diriger cette grande maison de la diversité et des compréhensions, Madame Bokova a dû faire face à de nombreux et importants obstacles, tant au sein de l’Organisation qu’à l’extérieur de celle-ci.

(22.2) Comme nous le savons tous, à partir de 2011, la crise financière a affaibli les capacités opérationnelles de l’UNESCO. Mais cette crise fut également un défi qui nous obligea – vous comme nous – à redéfinir un modèle administratif nous permettant de faire face avec force et austérité, sans cesser de remplir notre mission. Bien sûr, la crise a, comme toujours, surtout frappé les plus faibles, ceux qui ont le plus besoin de renforcer l’éducation, la science et la culture, et ceux qui attendent le plus de la liberté d’expression et d’information. C’est pourquoi un coup porté à l’UNESCO est porté à l’humanité entière.

(22.3) Ces dernières années, vous avez dû jouer, hors de l’Organisation, un rôle de chef de file dans un monde qui témoigne du recul des valeurs de paix et d’humanisme défendues par l’UNESCO, valeurs pour lesquelles la région Amérique latine et Caraïbes souhaite être un exemple et continue de l’être. L’environnement a été menacé par les guerres, les extrémismes violents, les attentats terroristes, l’aggravation du changement climatique, la crise des milliers de réfugiés, les assassinats répétés, très courants, de journalistes, la destruction de biens culturels emblématiques et, maintenant, les menaces de guerre nucléaire. Je comprends qu’il ne vous a pas été facile de faire face à ces obstacles, mais je dois reconnaître que l’UNESCO a toujours répondu fermement, en brandissant le drapeau de la paix à chaque crise.

(22.4) La région Amérique latine et Caraïbes, bien qu’elle soit l’une des régions des plus inégales au monde, est désormais une zone sans guerres, comme l’a montré le traité de paix signé en Colombie entre les dirigeants de la guérilla et le Président Juan Manuel Santos, notre lauréat du prix Nobel de la paix, qui a été accueilli chaleureusement par l’UNESCO.

(22.5) Madame la Directrice générale, le GRULAC, qui est l’un des groupes les plus combatifs, actifs et prompts au consensus, souhaite vous remercier pour

l’appui que vous lui avez apporté depuis l’Organisation, ainsi qu’à l’occasion de toutes les visites que vous avez effectuées dans chacun de nos pays. Vous avez été ouverte, attentive et mesurée et vous avez su entendre nos propositions. Nos présidents, nos ministres, nos ambassadeurs et nos fonctionnaires sont ressortis satisfaits de leurs échanges avec vous et se sont félicités d’avoir pu largement aborder les questions qui relèvent de la compétence de l’Organisation dans notre région. L’Amérique latine et les Caraïbes vous adressent un grand merci. Nous vous souhaitons beaucoup de succès et de paix dans votre vie professionnelle et familiale. Je vous remercie.

23.1 Malaysia (Vice-Chairperson for Group IV) in extenso:

Mr Chairperson, Madam Director-General, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, I am deeply honoured, as a Vice-Chairperson of this Board, as well as the Chairperson of the Asia and the Pacific group (ASPAC), to be here and to join the previous speaker in paying tribute to our beloved Director-General, who, through her eight years of devoted and loyal services, has endeared herself to so many of us that we now address her as “dear Irina” rather than by her surname.

23.2 At the 31st session of the General Conference, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Najib Razak, had been invited by UNESCO to deliver his annual address. At the same session, the Director-General approved the Executive Board’s proposal to appoint Ms Bokova as the first woman to hold the prestigious position of Director-General of UNESCO. Whether it was, or not, a coincidence, the Prime Minister of Malaysia’s proposal was, inter alia, for enhanced technical cooperation between UNESCO and least developed countries (LDCs) and small island developing States (SIDS). In the short time she spent with my Government, Ms Bokova was able to conclude the Malaysia-UNESCO cooperation programme, which will remain operational until June 2019. Similarly, Ms Bokova was able to champion the creation of a category 1 Institute in the ASPAC region. She was responsible for encouraging the creation of category 2 institutes and centres in the four corners of the globe. At this session, she has proposed the creation of 15 category 2 institutes and centres, six of which are to be in the region of Asia and the Pacific. Suffice it to say, in no uncertain terms, that a great number of our Member States are clamouring not only for a strong UNESCO presence, but also assistance in several of its fields of competence. In short, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, Ms Bokova has led this Organization in a truly exemplary way, and she will always be remembered as someone who endeavoured to have this Organization reach new heights, despite budgetary constraints, enabling it to remain the moral conscience of the entire United Nations system. On behalf of ASPAC, I wish her and her husband happiness, good health and a well-deserved retirement. Thank you.

24. The representative of South Africa (Vice-Chairperson for Group V(a)) said that the ambassador of Nigeria would make a statement on behalf of Group V(a).

25.1 Nigeria in extenso: Surprises! Well, this is a little bit strange, but, Mr Chairperson, Nigeria will rise to the occasion. I wonder if the Director-General remembers our first meeting, at the Ambassador of Thailand’s residence in September 2009. Then, she was campaigning to become the Director-

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General of the Organization, and I had just arrived as Nigeria’s Ambassador and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO. That was our very first meeting, and I think we have shared many good memories since then.

25.2 I look at the road that led Madam Director-General to UNESCO. It seems to reveal a series of experiences, and grooming, in preparation for the position of Director-General. That was some eight years ago, and those years marked the length of your stewardship as Director-General of UNESCO. There is no doubt whatsoever that that was a crucial period in the life of the Organization. They were challenging and sometimes trying times. However, those years witnessed the continual affirmation of UNESCO’s importance as the dominant instrument of the United Nations system, especially as far as the propagation of peace is concerned. Your training and experience in the service of your country, Bulgaria, were, indeed, a relevant preparation for the challenges that awaited you at UNESCO. We have been witnesses to the manner in which you have faced these challenges, as you worked to keep UNESCO and its work at the forefront of the activities of the United Nations system.

25.3 It is with appreciation that we have watched your stubborn – I’m putting it in between quote marks – and unyielding insistence on doing everything in your power to make UNESCO fit for purpose, as you quite rightly put it. As the Head of the Organization, you have developed the magic of directing a UNESCO faced with increasing responsibilities and ever-dwindling funds and staff. You have conferred with the governing bodies of the Organization, and especially with the Board. You have not shied away from the demands of a more sharpened Organization.

25.4 We in the Africa Group will always remember the various interventions and initiatives and the reform of the field network, which has brought the Organization closer to the people. We remember the efforts to align the Organization’s work with that of the African Union (AU). We greatly cherish UNESCO’s strategy on youth. We also cherish the attempts to increase the geographic representation within the Organization, and several Member States of the Africa region have benefited from the category 2 centres that have been established to help us, especially in the areas of capacity building and technical advice, UNESCO’s hallmarks. So as we bid you farewell, we look back with appreciation on your contributions to the work of UNESCO through a very important period in its history. We thank you for your commitment to the ideals of UNESCO and we wish you continuous success in your future endeavours. Thank you.

النص (نائبة الرئيس عن اجملموعة اخلامسة (ب)) المغرب ٢٦ الكامل: العربية لدى الدول موعةالسيدة املديرة العامة، أود باسم جم

يف إدارة املنظمة بتفان وبروح ك�اء مهامإعلى وشك وأنت ،اليونسكوأول امرأة فلقد كنت جبزيل الشكر واالمتنان. ك إليمسؤولية عالية، أن أتقدم

جهودا ملموسة من أجل تعزيز مكانة هذا املنصب الرفيع وبذلت شغلت تجماالخمتلف املستوى الدويل يف املنظمة وتأكيد دورها الريادي على

دفاع عن بالاختصاصها. وقد متيزت فرتة مهامك بالتزامك الثابت واملستمر سيتذكرها اليت بارزةال كعمالأمة و قي ال كوبإجنازات ،قيم املنظمة ومصاحلها

،اجلميع. كما ال ننسى روح التوافق اليت سادت بني خمتلف الدول األعضاء

فبكل احرتام وتقدير، أعرب لك، يف إدارة املنظمة. احلميدة بفضل جهودكالعربية وعن الدول السيدة املديرة العامة، عن شكري اخلاص وشكر جمموعة

.وشكرا ،متنيايت لك بالتوفيق والنجاح يف حياتك اجلديدة(26) Maroc (Vice-Présidente pour le Groupe

V (b)) in extenso (traduit de l’arabe) :

Madame la Directrice générale, je voudrais, au nom du groupe des États arabes à l’UNESCO, et alors que vous êtes sur le point de terminer votre mandat en tant que Directrice générale de l’Organisation avec dévouement et un esprit de très haute responsabilité, vous exprimer mes plus vifs remerciements et ma plus profonde gratitude. Vous avez été la première femme à occuper ce poste élevé et vous avez consenti des efforts considérables afin de renforcer la position de l’Organisation et d’affirmer son rôle pionnier au niveau international dans ses divers domaines de compétence. Votre mandat a été caractérisé par votre engagement ferme et constant en faveur de la défense des valeurs et des intérêts de l’Organisation, et par vos précieuses réalisations et actions, dont tout le monde se souviendra. Nous n’oublierons pas, non plus, l’esprit de consensus qui a prévalu entre les États membres grâce à vos louables efforts à la tête de l’Organisation. Avec tout notre respect et toute notre gratitude, je vous adresse, Madame la Directrice générale, mes remerciements personnels et ceux du groupe des États arabes, et vous souhaite plein succès dans votre nouvelle vie. Merci.

27.1 Sweden (Vice-Chairperson for Group I) in extenso:

In this challenging time of unprecedented unpredictability, the United Nations is more important than ever for sustainable development and a safer, more secure world. With its mandate, UNESCO has a key role to play in this endeavour. The world therefore needs a strong, smart UNESCO. That is in all our interests, and especially those of the most in need.

27.2 We appreciate the efforts that you have made, Madam Director-General, to shape UNESCO for our times, with a clear focus on the need to enhance the Organization’s impact, notwithstanding its critical financial situation. We would like to thank you, Madam Director-General, for your firm commitment to education, freedom of expression and the safety of journalists, as well as intercultural dialogue and the rapprochement of cultures. We appreciate your initiatives to mobilize countries against the destruction of cultural heritage and bring this issue to the Security Council and to the forefront of UNESCO’s work. This demonstrates the relevance of UNESCO and the important role it must play in shaping a better future for us all. We would also like to thank you for your efforts to improve gender parity at senior management level, now close to the 50% target.

27.3 The eight years of your term of office have indeed been turbulent. I have already mentioned the financial situation, and leading an Organization with a shortfall of over half a million dollars highlights leadership capacities. You have managed this well, and also promoted important reforms for the working of the Organization. Most organizations in that situation would slowly disappear from the world stage, but you have continued to relentlessly advocate and promote the values of UNESCO. You have made UNESCO more visible and more relevant. As I said from the outset, we live in a time of huge transformation,

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and the founding ideas and principles of UNESCO are as vibrantly urgent as ever. We deeply thank you, Madam Director-General, for never deviating from the path to creating sustainable, equal and peaceful development for all women and men.

27.4 Let me also take this opportunity to congratulate the newly nominated candidate for the post of Director-General, Audrey Azoulay, and I am sure you will share all your experience to ensure a smooth transition.

27.5 We from Group I wish you, Madam Director-General, all the best in your future endeavours, and let me just add a short personal note. Irina, you have often heard me describe the relationship between Sweden and UNESCO as a love affair, and I just wanted to thank you for helping us continue to work very closely on the issues that are of great importance to my country. We see our contributions to UNESCO as an investment, and you have been very helpful in this regard, so thank you very much.

28.1 Bulgarie (in extenso) : Votre Excellence Madame la Directrice générale, skapa Irina, j’ai énormément à dire, car la Bulgarie est émue, la Bulgarie est reconnaissante, et surtout la Bulgarie est fière. Au nom de notre pays, de son gouvernement, de ses hommes et de ses femmes, de toute la nation, je voudrais vous remercier de tout cœur pour ces huit ans de leadership, marqués par une déontologie professionnelle et personnelle qui a changé durablement et positivement « notre belle Organisation », pour reprendre votre formulation.

28.2 Chère Irina, vous nous avez tous fait croire en l’importance, dans un contexte turbulent, difficile, parfois même morose, de faire vivre un projet fondateur, une ambition intellectuelle capable de transcender les difficultés du temps présent, en ligne avec le nouvel humanisme que vous avez mis en avant. L’humanisme d’aujourd’hui, vous l’avez montré, c’est mobiliser, notamment mobiliser les ressources de la science pour mieux anticiper et renforcer la résilience des peuples. Vous étiez toujours là, chère Irina, pour défendre la culture vivante, la sécurité et l’intégrité, la dignité des journalistes et la libre pensée. L’UNESCO reste l’unique organisation vouée à la promotion de la sécurité et de l’intégrité des représentants des médias et à la lutte contre l’impunité de ceux qui les agressent.

28.3 Chère Directrice générale, vous avez placé cette action parmi les éléments centraux de notre Organisation et vous avez sans cesse attiré l’attention du monde entier sur ce problème de plus en plus pressant. Vous resterez pour toujours la première femme « Directeur général de l’UNESCO », et votre dignité a su inciter des millions de filles à poursuivre leurs études, à chercher à réaliser leurs rêves pour un monde meilleur offrant une place plus juste aux filles, sans pour autant négliger les garçons. Heureusement pour nous tous, heureusement pour tous les habitants de cette planète, cette première femme s’est avérée aussi et surtout une grande dame, qui incarnait à merveille la combinaison entre professionnalisme, sérieux, et cette classe et élégance d’esprit qui caractérise si bien le système de valeurs bulgare.


28.4 Now that we’ve stood with you, Madam Director-General, against cultural cleansing and the deliberate destruction of historical monuments and cultural heritage, together with you, Irina, we Member States pledge to respond to such attacks at international, regional and national levels, to protect cultural heritage and diversity

and to prevent the trafficking of cultural goods, which fuels further terrorism. Your commitment and UNESCO’s leadership in restoring the mausoleums of Timbuktu show the current importance of cultural heritage. Your efforts led to the first ruling to classify crimes against cultural heritage as war crimes. UNESCO has rallied the international community to protect cultural heritage in conflict zones and stop the pillaging and trafficking of cultural goods. At the same time, your belief in education pushed us to work together on preventing extremism through education and to spread the values of literacy.

28.5 Madam Director-General, with your firm determination, you showed us that protecting the wonders of nature and ecosystems means ensuring long-term, lasting sustainable development that benefits people and natural systems, a way for humanity and nature to live in peace and harmony.

28.6 During times of crisis, you were able to navigate UNESCO through turbulent waters and keep it proud, with its mission to build peace in the minds of women and men. Despite the various challenges, you managed to apply your new humanistic approach to tackle a horizon of pressing issues and demands. You showed how the new multilateralism for the twenty-first century should be inclusive, effective and efficient, based on shared values and norms. You invested in diplomacy and not in hard power, you engaged in tolerance and dialogue, and not in confrontation. You valued peace, and not conflicts.

28.7 For all that, dear Irina, grateful Bulgaria is proud of you, its highest-ranking international decision-maker ever. Thank you.

29.1 The Director-General in extenso: Mr Chairperson, Mr President of the General Conference, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, thank you very much. First and foremost, thank you for your very kind words. I am grateful to each and every one of you, to my country and to Ambassador Tcholakov. I am deeply touched and honoured by the spirit that these words express. I believe this is exactly the spirit of commitment to this Organization, the “conscience of humanity,” the intellectual laboratory of the United Nations, the soft power that we bring to the multilateral order. I believe that this is also the spirit of responsibility to UNESCO’s mission, at a time when this has never been so important - and many of you emphasized precisely this - to empower individual women and men, to give them respect for their human rights and their dignity, to strengthen the resilience of societies in the face of change and, sometimes, turbulence and conflict.

29.2 These have, indeed, been challenging times for the world, the Organization, and, naturally, for me personally. I am often reminded of the opening lines of A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair…” I took office in 2009, when the world was reeling from a deep economic crisis, with governments literally against the wall, with budgets slashed, with the poorest carrying the heaviest burdens. I will leave office next month, at a time when the planet faces rising pressure from the consequences of climate change, when conflicts remain aflame, when humanity is on the move like never before, when culture and heritage are under attack.

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29.3 Then again, since 2009, we have seen so many vast new openings and opportunities for dialogue exchange, empowerment, human rights and dignity. We have also seen new forms of partnerships and cooperation between States and within societies. Over this period, the world has set out the most ambitious new global agenda ever seen, to leave no one behind, to eradicate poverty, to deepen peace, to protect the planet, with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. I feel so honoured and so blessed to have had the opportunity to participate with you in this effort. Over this period, and despite all the challenges, together, we have ensured that UNESCO remained active and dynamic continuing to lead positive change, shaping this new global agenda and taking it forward.


29.4 Mesdames et Messieurs, tout au long de mon mandat, j’ai voulu recentrer l’UNESCO sur ses fonctions principales, sur son rôle spécifique au sein du système des Nations Unies. Ce que nous avons réussi, nous l’avons réussi ensemble et de manière durable. Nous avons transformé le cadre politique de la protection du patrimoine, en montrant son importance pour la paix et la sécurité dans le monde. Jamais auparavant cet enjeu n’avait occupé une telle place dans les résolutions du Conseil de sécurité. Je crois que c’est le fruit de notre travail commun. Nous avons transformé le cadre politique des efforts mondiaux pour l’éducation, en insistant non plus seulement sur l’accès, mais aussi sur la qualité des apprentissages, sur la formation des professeurs, sur les compétences et sur l’inclusion des filles.

29.5 Au-delà des turbulences du court terme, nous pouvons mesurer le chemin parcouru : nous avons couvert l’ensemble des mers du globe par des systèmes d’alerte rapide aux tsunamis, et j’en suis très fière ; nous avons renforcé les politiques de protection des journalistes grâce à un plan d’action commun à l’ensemble des Nations Unies, et j’en suis très fière ; nous avons montré le rôle de la culture pour le développement durable, pour l’inclusion, et nous avons intégré cette question dans le Programme 2030, et j’en suis très fière ; nous avons montré combien la protection et la préservation du patrimoine étaient essentielles pour la paix, la réconciliation et la sécurité, et j’en suis très fière ; nous avons noué des partenariats beaucoup plus solides et l’UNESCO est aujourd’hui plus proche du terrain, plus proche des Nations Unies, et j’en suis très fière.

29.6 Durant tout ce temps, ma conviction est restée intacte : pour que la voix et l’autorité morales de l’UNESCO puissent s’exercer, il faut les ancrer dans des programmes tangibles qui changent concrètement la vie des peuples. Pour que la voix et l’autorité morales de l’UNESCO puissent porter, il faut aspirer au consensus, au dialogue, à la compréhension mutuelle. Cette vision est aussi notre réponse à différentes crises, notamment la crise financière que nous avons traversée, et permet de recentrer l’Organisation sur ses valeurs principales.

29.7 Madame l’Ambassadrice du Nigéria, je me souviens de chaque intervention. J’ai beaucoup de souvenirs : des souvenirs qui m’enrichissent, des souvenirs qui me donnent de l’espoir, des souvenirs qui me ramènent à l’idée d’un nouvel humanisme pour le XXIᵉ siècle, idée qui était au cœur de ma campagne en 2009. Je reste convaincue qu’il faut continuer de chercher ce nouvel humanisme qui, je crois, est la base de l’ambitieux Programme 2030, mais aussi de nos programmes et de

notre mandat. D’ailleurs, les propos si aimables que vous avez tenus à l’appui de cette vision d’un nouvel humanisme m’honorent et me responsabilisent davantage. Je vais poursuivre mon combat pour ancrer ce nouvel humanisme dans la mentalité des décideurs politiques à travers le monde et au sein du système des Nations Unies.

29.8 Encore une fois, je veux remercier chacune et chacun d’entre vous parce que votre soutien et vos paroles si aimables m’honorent profondément. Je dirai un mot pour mes collaborateurs, parce que je n’aurais pas fait tout cela sans eux, sans le personnel ni le Secrétariat. Ce sont des gens formidables, d’excellents professionnels dévoués à l’Organisation. Je les remercierai aussi lors de la Conférence générale mais je tiens à témoigner, en votre présence, ma profonde reconnaissance à l’ensemble du personnel de l’Organisation, à tous ces experts, ces hommes et ces femmes qui vont continuer de travailler avec le même dévouement pour le mandat de notre Organisation. Je vous remercie du fond du cœur, vous m’avez beaucoup touchée.

(Applaudissements)

Tribute to Michael Worbs, Chairperson of the Executive Board

30.1 The representative of Sweden (Vice Chairperson for Group I) said that on behalf of her group, she would like to take the opportunity to pay tribute to Ambassador Worbs. Before taking office as Chairperson of the Executive Board, he had had over 30 years diplomatic experience which his champions at the time had pointed to as excellent training for a chairperson, who must ensure harmony and equality among Member States. Two years later, those words had proven accurate. Mr Worbs had been able to remain calm, friendly and clear-minded when the going had become tough, as it certainly had during his tenure. His spirit of compromise had enabled Members to reach a common ground of understanding, and to find solutions to many difficult questions. Often, he had found ways of building bridges and achieving consensus. One of his most commendable efforts was to enhance the Board’s transparency, the most striking example of which was his leadership during the nominations for the new Director-General, the most transparent nomination process in UNESCO’s history.

30.2 Sweden’s membership on the Executive Board was coming to an end, so she also wished to take the opportunity to thank her colleagues for four years of excellent collaboration during which they had worked together to strengthen UNESCO and make it more relevant.

31. The representative of Lithuania (Vice-Chairperson for Group II) said that Group II appreciated the Chairperson’s efforts to develop and promote a multilateral work model for UNESCO. They also appreciated his transparency, honesty, flexibility and human warmth, all of which had been so essential during his tenure. She wished him all the best in his future endeavours.

32.1 República Dominicana (Vicepresidente por el Grupo III) in extenso:

En nombre de las delegaciones permanentes que integran el Grupo de América Latina y el Caribe, quisiera expresar nuestra gratitud por la oportunidad de dirigirme al auditorio a fin de compartir con ustedes algunas reflexiones sobre la gestión del señor Michael

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Worbs al concluir su mandato como Presidente del Consejo Ejecutivo de la UNESCO.

32.2 En términos personales, señor Presidente, para mí ha sido un verdadero privilegio haber iniciado mi misión como representante de mi país en el Consejo Ejecutivo de la UNESCO bajo el liderazgo de un profesional de su estatura y vasta experiencia. Recuerdo, a modo de anécdota, que nos conocimos en la que fue mi primera salida e invitación a una mesa, y ese día, al advertir que casi no podía oírlo, pensé un poco preocupado que hablar muy quedo era una condición necesaria para ser embajador. Después, gracias a Dios, entendí que no era así.

32.3 Consideramos oportuno resaltar la maestría con la que el señor Presidente del Consejo Ejecutivo ha manejado los distintos temas que integran el orden del día de la Organización, algunos muy complejos y otros notablemente sensibles, desplegando en cada ocasión gran delicadeza, tacto y sensatez. Igualmente, valoramos su sensibilidad y prudencia, cualidades que le han permitido mantener un ambiente de armonía y equilibrio aún en momentos de evidente tensión. Asimismo, a lo largo de las deliberaciones de los diferentes grupos de trabajo y comisiones, hemos sido testigos de su apego a las normas y su compromiso con los ideales primigenios de la UNESCO, así como el palpable impulso que ha querido brindar a los esfuerzos mundiales para promover la paz, erradicar la pobreza y motivar el diálogo intercultural con miras a alcanzar los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible para 2030.

32.4 Me tomo la libertad de citar un segmento del discurso pronunciado por el señor Worbs el pasado 9 de octubre, durante su alocución de apertura de esta reunión del Consejo Ejecutivo: “Lamentablemente, nos reunimos a sabiendas de que el mantra de la Constitución y la misión de nuestra Organización son más relevantes que nunca. Aunque no podemos dominar las fuerzas destructivas de la naturaleza, podemos y debemos ser capaces de aplicar políticas que ayuden a mitigar los efectos negativos que la humanidad está teniendo en nuestro medio ambiente. Se debe hacer todo lo posible por lograr que se erijan los baluartes de la paz. Esta es la razón por la que se creó la UNESCO y por la que hoy estamos aquí”.

32.5 El GRULAC y la Delegación Permanente de la República Dominicana refrendan sin reservas esa clara y determinada visión y renuevan su compromiso de continuar marchando de la mano con todas las demás naciones que se identifican con esta noble causa, pues sobran evidencias de que nuestras sociedades, sin importar su nivel de desarrollo, comparten los mismos retos y preocupaciones, y lo único que garantizará el éxito en la elevada misión de la UNESCO es que unamos nuestras fuerzas y, de una vez por todas, comencemos a trabajar juntos y, por qué no, a cantar juntos para construir ese mundo nuevo en donde reine la paz. Gracias, señor Presidente, por habernos servido de inspiración.

(32.1) République dominicaine (Vice-Président pour le Groupe III) in extenso (traduit de l’espagnol) :

Au nom des délégations permanentes qui composent le Groupe de l’Amérique latine et des Caraïbes (GRULAC), je souhaite exprimer notre gratitude pour la possibilité qui m’est faite de m’adresser à l’auditoire afin de partager avec vous, alors que s’achève son mandat en tant que Président

du Conseil exécutif de l’UNESCO, quelques réflexions concernant la gestion de Monsieur Michael Worbs.

(32.2) Monsieur le Président, d’un point de vue personnel, ce fut pour moi un vrai privilège que d’avoir pris mes fonctions de représentant de mon pays au sein du Conseil exécutif de l’UNESCO sous la direction d’un professionnel expérimenté de votre calibre. Je me souviens, sur le ton de l’anecdote, que nous nous sommes rencontrés à l’occasion de ma première invitation à une réunion, et ce jour-là, en constatant que je ne pouvais quasiment pas vous entendre, j’ai pensé avec une certaine inquiétude que le fait de parler très bas était une condition nécessaire pour être ambassadeur. Plus tard, Dieu merci, j’ai compris qu’il n’en était rien.

(32.3) Nous souhaitons souligner la maîtrise avec laquelle le Président du Conseil exécutif a su aborder les différents thèmes inscrits à l’ordre du jour de l’Organisation, dont certains étaient très complexes ou particulièrement sensibles, en faisant toujours preuve d’une grande délicatesse, de tact et de bon sens. Nous avons également apprécié sa sensibilité et sa prudence, qualités qui lui ont permis de maintenir une ambiance harmonieuse et équilibrée, même lorsque la tension était palpable. De même, tout au long des délibérations des différents groupes de travail et des commissions, nous avons été témoins de son respect des règles et de son engagement au service des idéaux constitutifs de l’UNESCO, ainsi que de l’élan manifeste qu’il a voulu apporter aux efforts mondiaux pour promouvoir la paix, éliminer la pauvreté et encourager le dialogue interculturel en vue de la réalisation des Objectifs de développement durable à l’horizon 2030.

(32.4) Je prends la liberté de citer un extrait du discours prononcé par Monsieur Worbs, le 9 octobre dernier, lors de son allocution d’ouverture de la présente session du Conseil exécutif : « Malheureusement, nous nous réunissons en sachant que le mantra de notre Acte constitutif et que l’énoncé de mission de notre Organisation sont plus que jamais d’actualité. Si nous ne pouvons pas maîtriser les forces destructives de la nature, nous pouvons et nous devons être capables de mettre en œuvre des politiques qui contribuent à atténuer les effets néfastes de l’humanité sur notre environnement. Nous devons faire tout ce qui est en notre pouvoir pour parvenir à élever les défenses de la paix. C’est la raison pour laquelle a été créée l’UNESCO. C’est la raison de notre présence ici. »

(32.5) Le GRULAC et la délégation permanente de la République dominicaine appuient sans réserve cette vision claire et déterminée, et renouvellent leur engagement à avancer main dans la main avec tous les pays qui s’associent à cette noble cause, car nombreux sont les exemples qui prouvent que nos sociétés, quel que soit leur niveau de développement, partagent les mêmes objectifs et les mêmes inquiétudes. La seule chose qui garantira la réussite de la noble mission de l’UNESCO est que nous unissions nos forces et qu’une fois pour toutes, nous commencions à travailler ensemble et, pourquoi pas, à chanter ensemble pour construire ce monde nouveau, sur lequel règne la paix. Merci, Monsieur le Président, d’avoir été pour nous une inspiration.

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33. The representative of Malaysia (Vice-Chairperson for Group IV) said that he wished to convey the heartfelt thanks and gratitude of the members of Group IV to the Chairperson for guiding the work of the Executive Board so successfully and to their entire satisfaction. Ambassador Worbs was a man of consensus. His excellent manners and rapport with his colleagues made him a true democrat in every sense of the word. He had, moreover, set an exemplary standard for both academic and diplomatic excellence in chairing the Board with so much humility. The members of Group IV would miss his towering presence at the meetings of the Bureau and the Executive Board and hoped that his skills and vast experience would not disappear from the Organization’s radar and that his services and advice would be sought, in one capacity or another, for its benefit. They wished him every success in his future endeavours.

34. The representative of South Africa (Vice-Chairperson for Group V(a)) said that Group V(a) wished to thank the Chairperson for his able leadership and guidance over the past two years. He had maintained a calm demeanour and a consistent approach throughout, regardless of what had been occurring in the meeting. That, and his amiable personality and willingness to engage with all Members, were the hallmarks of a chairperson. On behalf of Group V(a), she thanked him for his contribution to UNESCO and wished him well in his future endeavours.

النص (نائبة الرئيس عن اجملموعة اخلامسة (ب)) المغرب ممثلة ١-٣٥ الكامل:

العربية لدى الدول السيد رئيس اجمللس التنفيذي، أود باسم جمموعة لس لمجلكرئيس ك�اء مهامإنت على وشك أو ،اليونسكو، أن أعرب لك

ل رة أعماواالمتنان على دورك احلكيم يف إداعن جزيل الشكر ،التنفيذيساهم ،يسالرئ السيد ،به إن كل ما قمت ف اجمللس التنفيذي طيلة هذه الفرتة.

يسعين إال وال ،ةللمنظم ةرئيسي كهيئة هيف إبراز فعالية اجمللس التنفيذي ودور وتقديري. يأن أعرب لك عن فائق شكر

نواب الرئيس ورؤساء إىل يضا أن أتقدم بالشكرأكما يسرين ٢-٣٥توافق من ال يف إطار روح ،مسامهتهم مجيعا على اللجان وكل أعضاء اجمللس

دا إىل استنا وميزانية اليونسكإعداد يف وضع الربامج واألنشطة و ،والتضامنعة باسم جممو ف لسنوات القادمة.يف ااملنظمة عملعملية ستنري رؤية واضحة و

النجاح يف توفيق و وألسرتك الكرمية ال ،سيدي الرئيس م،العربية أمتىن لكالدول حياتكم اجلديدة وشكرا.

(35.1) La représentante du Maroc (Vice-Présidente pour le Groupe V (b)) in extenso (traduit de l’arabe) :

Monsieur le Président du Conseil exécutif, je voudrais, au nom du groupe des États arabes à l’UNESCO, et alors que vous êtes sur le point de terminer votre mandat en tant que Président du Conseil exécutif, vous exprimer mes plus vifs remerciements et ma plus profonde gratitude pour la sagesse avec laquelle vous avez dirigé les travaux du Conseil tout au long de votre mandat. Votre action, Monsieur le Président, a contribué à renforcer l’efficacité du Conseil exécutif et son rôle d’organe directeur de l’Organisation. Il ne me reste qu’à vous exprimer tous mes remerciements et toute mon appréciation.

(35.2) Je voudrais également remercier les vice-présidents, les présidents des commissions et tous les membres du Conseil pour leur contribution, dans un esprit de consensus et de solidarité, au processus d’élaboration des programmes et des activités ainsi qu’à la préparation du budget de l’UNESCO sur la base d’une vision claire et pratique qui guidera l’action de l’Organisation dans les années à venir. Au nom du groupe des États arabes, je vous souhaite à vous, Monsieur le Président, ainsi qu’à votre famille, plein succès dans votre nouvelle vie. Merci.

36. The Chairperson said that he was looking forward to working under the guidance of the representative of Morocco, who would be serving as President of the forthcoming General Conference.

37.1 The Director-General in extenso: Thank you very much, Mr Chairperson. I would like to take this opportunity, first and foremost, to thank you for your leadership of UNESCO’s Executive Board and for all the cooperation that we have had. Naturally, I will also take the opportunity to thank all the Bureau members. These two years have been critical for the Organization, with the advancement of the reform, the preparation for the General Conference and the nomination of my successor, especially in light of what is happening in the world, with the rising challenges of violent extremism, the destruction of heritage and the adoption of important documents such as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change at the end of 2015. The way in which we implement this important Agenda has been critical during these last two years. I would like to thank you, because you were the one who led the important debate on UNESCO’s place in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the way in which we should continue to adapt the Organization and make it relevant. That debate also encompassed the Organization’s soft power, which fosters peaceful societies and supports them as they transform and build resilience. These have also been years, Mr Chairperson, in which UNESCO’s action was vital in terms of intercultural dialogue, giving dignity to millions of women and men, supporting the freedom of expression and quality education, strengthening science for sustainable development and bolstering UNESCO’s contribution to preventing violent extremism. I would like to commend you, Mr Chairperson, because you have always presided over the Executive Board in a spirit of reform, seeking the best ways to mobilize Member States. You were a good listener, you have always sought our opinion, you never took decisions lightly, and I think the fact that you showed respect for the Secretariat and the opinions we put forward encouraged all of us to give our best and be true to the mandate of this Organization. I think you have always been inspired by consensus in your work, and I think that is ultimately what diplomacy is all about. It is naturally about defending the national interest, but multilateralism is about finding the common good. Multilateralism is ultimately about giving up something from your own agenda for the common good of humanity, and I think, Mr Chairperson, you embody this multilateral ambition to always seek consensus and the common good. I would like to commend you for that, because that is precisely why, under your guidance, the Executive Board has been able to take decisions to reform the Organization.


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37.2 Monsieur le Président, vous avez fait bénéficier l’Organisation de l’expérience de votre longue carrière diplomatique au service de la coopération internationale, mais aussi de votre expérience littéraire. J’évoque cet aspect de vos talents parce que certains l’ignorent peut-être. Je connais depuis longtemps votre passion pour Freud et l’influence qu’il a exercée sur la littérature allemande et mondiale, un sujet auquel vous avez consacré votre thèse de doctorat, et aujourd’hui précisément se tenait un débat très intéressant sur Freud. Je crois qu’il faut l’évoquer parce que l’UNESCO est aussi un lieu de culture, de littérature et de débat intellectuel. Je suis très heureuse qu’en plus de vos talents diplomatiques, vous ayez apporté à cette Maison votre contribution littéraire et intellectuelle. Dans cet esprit, je vous remercie encore une fois, en tant que Directrice générale de l’UNESCO, je vous félicite et je vous souhaite le meilleur.

(La Directrice générale poursuit en anglais)

37.3 You know, ladies and gentlemen, we have a tradition in this House. I would like to give the Chairperson of the Executive Board, Ambassador Worbs, our gavel, with which we on the Executive Board were disciplined. This ceremonial gavel is a little bit more sophisticated, I think, than the one that is here – not very much used – but in any case, I want to give it to you in the spirit of gratitude.

(Applause)

38. The Chairperson thanked the Director-General for her kind words and for what she had said about multilateralism. That was what he had experienced in his nearly ten years at UNESCO. Naturally, decision-making was not easy, and it took time, but with common sense and a little good will, it was possible, even with 58 Members around the table taking decisions consensually. They had proven that many, many times, especially during the last session. He also thanked her for the gift. It would remind him of the two years during which it had been his honour to be Chairperson.

39. The representative of Oman said that although a representative of her country had already expressed her appreciation for the Chairperson’s work, she still wished to thank him since she had heard that the Chairperson would be retiring in Oman. She commended his wisdom as a chairperson, despite the difficulties inherent to the task; his commitment to inclusiveness, to reconciling views and to promoting consensus among Members and regional encouraged collaboration among Board Members in an informal setting; and his handling of the intersessional meetings, despite a lack of clear guidance in the form of terms of reference. She wished him all the best in his future endeavours.

CLOSURE OF THE 202ND SESSION

40.1 The Chairperson in extenso: Mr President of the General Conference, Madam Director-General, dear colleagues, ladies and gentlemen, we have come to the end of our business during this session. Before closing, allow me to say a few words to reflect on the past two years we have shared together. As I said during my opening remarks, this biennium has been one in which the Board has met more regularly and more often than in the past. We have benefitted from almost constant contact with our colleagues, the non-Board Member States, and the Secretariat approximately once per month since we began our work after the Board’s

189th session, in November 2015. Four regular Board sessions, ten intersessional meetings, several information meetings, not to mention the many informal and ad hoc meetings that have been organized throughout the past 24 months. Amid all these meetings, we also celebrated the symbolic 200th session of the Board. Now we are about to close this session of the Executive Board and to embark on the 39th session of the General Conference. While paying tribute to the Director-General, I recalled our constitutional responsibility for the execution of the programme. It is also our constitutional duty to organize the work of the General Conference to the best of our ability. Despite the challenges we have faced, I believe we have successfully accomplished these tasks.

40.2 Let me say that that has not been the responsibility of any one individual. In the exercise of my responsibilities as your Chairperson, I relied on each and every one of you. Collectively as a Board, we interacted in a very constructive and collegial manner. In all our names, I wish to thank each of the regional Vice-Chairpersons, and the Chairpersons of the Finance and Administrative Commission (FA), the Programme and External Relations Commission (PX), the Special Committee (SP), the Committee on Conventions and Recommendations (CR) and the Committee on Non-Governmental Partners (NGP), for their steady leadership and helpful wisdom throughout the biennium.

40.3 I would also like to say a special word of thanks to the President of the General Conference, Mr Stanley Mutumba Simataa. You have been present at each session of the Board throughout the entire biennium. Your statements at each of these meetings were topical and constructive. They helped to frame our discussions and provided a constant reminder of the Board’s link to the General Conference.

40.4 Now, dear colleagues, at the beginning of this session, I said we would undoubtedly reach our destination safe and sound. I think I can now safely say that we did. During the biennium, we helped to craft the next quadrennial programme and biennial budget. We also nominated a candidate for the post of Director-General, who will be entrusted with the task of implementing the programme and budget as of 1 January 2018. I am confident that the next Executive Board will be just as diligent with Madam Audrey Azoulay as we have been with you, Madam Director-General. This session saw great changes in the nomination process, from the interviews that took place in public meetings to the announcement of the results after each round of voting in a private meeting. We have succeeded in our quest for transparency and this change did not go unnoticed – thank you, Ambassador Oswin.

40.5 Coming to an agreement on the next programme and budget document, however, was difficult, especially considering the financial challenges we continue to face at UNESCO, as noted in our recommendations in the C/6 document. The Organization’s budget remains chronically underfunded. The advances made towards an integrated budget framework will continue to highlight where funding comes from, and more importantly, where it is needed, so that Member States and other stakeholders will be able to contribute to the achievement of our expected results. As I mentioned earlier, while it is regrettable that the United States has chosen to withdraw from UNESCO, the act must not further hinder the universal role we must continue to play to foster high quality and inclusive lifelong learning for all; to promote

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scientific cooperation for sustainable development, including a healthy ocean ecosystem; to support inclusive social development, fostering intercultural dialogue for the rapprochement of cultures and promoting ethical principles; to protect cultural heritage and to foster creativity and diversity and, last but not least, to promote freedom of expression and access to information and knowledge. In this regard, I would hope that the words “credibility” and “competitiveness” would remain at the forefront of our thinking. Despite the continuing financial crisis the Organization faces, we must maintain our place within the United Nations family as a specialized agency of reference for education, the sciences, culture, and communication and information.

40.6 Before expressing my thanks to some special colleagues, let me say a few words to those of us – including myself – who will be leaving the Board in 2017. Personally, I am grateful to my Government and especially to my Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which allowed me to stay on as Germany’s representative to the Executive Board so that I could complete my term of office as Chairperson. While many of us will probably remain over the coming weeks to participate in the General Conference, let me just say to you that I know how dedicated each and every one of you is when we take on the job of acting as our country’s representative to the Board. These past four years have been more than enriching. It will be challenging to leave after having been so involved in UNESCO’s work over the years. Some of you will go on to new responsibilities; others may be finally taking your well-earned retirement. However, I recall the words of one of my predecessors, Ambassador Mitrofanova of the Russian Federation, who said that we will always be ambassadors of UNESCO wherever we are. Today more than ever, each and every one of us must continue to act as advocates for the success of UNESCO.

40.7 Finally, ladies and gentlemen, as we have been so thankful after the delivery of each report in the last two days, let me not break with this tradition! I would like to take this opportunity to thank my own Secretariat, a small team of incredibly professional colleagues who have shown the highest level of dedication throughout my time as Chairperson. In this regard, let me thank the Secretary of the Executive Board, Karima Bekri-Lisner, for her careful management of the Secretariat of the Governing Bodies (GBS), which greatly helped me in fulfilling my own mandate. Karima, your institutional memory has been very helpful to me. I should also like to thank Susana Sam-Vargas, the Deputy Secretary of the Board, for the support she provided throughout all of our meetings; Inés Mens, who has diligently ensured the accuracy of our numerous documents – this is no mean feat!; Sandra Gallet, who, in addition to updating the website, played an important role in the voting process by distributing the ballot papers; Sandrine Garcia, Assistant to the Secretary of the Board, who, among other tasks, facilitated Member States’ interventions during our plenary meetings; Bakary Konate, already praised by my German colleague, who, apart from his duties as principal room clerk, was well known to you all for his dynamic role in the election process; Jennifer Brunner, who has been detached from HRM to assist during the past two sessions and who has assisted greatly in the day-to-day work. I would be remiss in my duties if I didn’t say a very special word of thanks to my Executive Assistant, Victoria Moorhead, whom many of us call Vicky – these are the same persons, Victoria Moorhead and Vicky – and whom all of you know for the

careful management of my office. She was also instrumental in crafting my scenarios for all Board meetings, formal and informal. And last but not least, Frederick Russell-Rivoallan, whom I requested to act as my Special Assistant during my tenure, a job he has done expertly for the third time now. He was Assistant for the Chinese Chairperson, Mr Zhang, and then, later, of my immediate predecessor, Mohamed Amr. I also relied heavily on his institutional knowledge. He knew what was required at specific moments, and his previous work in the Bureau of Strategic Planning (BSP) and later in the Sector for External Relations and Public Information (ERI) has helped him to acquire very good knowledge of the overall functioning of this Organization. That was absolutely necessary in the position he filled in the last two years with me. Finally, let me also thank those whom we do not always see, but who have ensured the smooth functioning of all the sessions of our Board: the interpreters, who ensure we are understood; the translators and document control colleagues; the technicians, who made sure everything works like clockwork; the clerks inside and outside of this room, who make sure we have the documents we need for our work; my driver, Rathna Matarage, who ensured my timely arrival in the office each day; the typists, who helped when we were collectively drafting our decisions in the commissions and committees; and the coffee ladies, who ensured that we had the sustenance we needed to continue until the very end. And this is the key word, is it not? Above all, Madam Director-General, please convey to the entire Secretariat our thanks and satisfaction for everyone’s continued support to furthering our collective work. I know what a challenge it is to prepare for and attend Board meetings. I think they all deserve a round of applause. Thank you.

(Applause)

41. El representante de la República Dominicana dice que convendría terminar tan convulsa reunión de la mejor manera posible: transmitiendo al mundo un mensaje de paz y unidad. El cantautor argentino Facundo Cabral decía que hay que temer a la gente que no canta, porque algo malo esconde. Por ello, para dar fe de la bondad de las personas, y a modo de colofón, invita a la sala a cantar a coro una canción que resume las aspiraciones de paz de la UNESCO.

(El orador canta)

Para niños más escuelas; como armas, el pincel. Contra lágrimas, la risa; como escudo, nuestra piel. Para amenazar, abrazos; como guerra, educación. Más amor para la tierra; más valor para el perdón. Para la guerra…

(La sala canta a coro) ¡Nada!

Para muros, muchas puertas; más silencio al escu-char. Más soldados en la ciencia; más coraje para amar. Como maestra está el planeta; para el hoy buscamos paz. Para jóvenes, espacios; que el refugio sea un hogar. Para la guerra…


Más promesas; más acciones; pa’ enseñar, más vo-luntad. Para el ahora, más futuro; para el mañana, seriedad. Menos heridas a la tierra; para un líder, la bondad. Que la guerra sea un recuerdo; a la mujer, más igual-dad.

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Para la guerra…


Para el terror, la voz en alto; para el mal, siempre el perdón. A las bombas, flores verdes; pa’l dolor, va esta can-ción. Para la ciencia, más recursos y momentos pa’ brillar. Pa’l analfabeto, letras; entre nosotros, solo paz. Para la guerra…

(La sala canta a coro) ¡Nada! / Para la guerra, ¡nada! / Para la guerra, ¡nada!

(41) Le représentant de la République domini-caine déclare qu’il conviendrait d’achever une ses-sion aussi mouvementée de la meilleure façon pos-sible, en transmettant au monde un message de paix et d’unité. Rappelant les propos de l’auteur-interprète argentin Facundo Cabral selon lesquels il faut craindre les gens qui ne chantent pas car cela cache quelque chose, il invite la salle, pour témoigner de la bonté des personnes et en guise de conclusion, à en-tonner en chœur une chanson qui résume les aspira-tions à la paix de l’UNESCO.

(L’orateur chante)

« Pour les enfants, toujours plus d’écoles ; et pour armes, des pinceaux. Contre les larmes, le rire ; et pour bouclier, notre peau. En guise de menaces, des embrassades ; et pour combat, l’éducation. Un plus grand amour pour la Terre ; une plus grande valeur au pardon. Pour la guerre…

(La salle chante en chœur) Rien du tout !

Face aux murs, ouvrons de nombreuses portes ; fai-sons silence lorsqu’on écoute. Toujours plus de soldats au service de la science ; et un plus grand courage pour aimer. Notre maîtresse est la planète ; pour le présent, re-cherchons la paix.

À la jeunesse, faisons de la place ; que le refuge soit un foyer. Pour la guerre…


Encore plus de promesses et d’action ; pour ensei-gner, toujours plus de volonté. Pour le présent, davantage d’avenir ; prenons demain au sérieux. Moins de blessures pour la Terre ; aux dirigeants, de la bienveillance. Que la guerre devienne un souvenir ; pour les femmes, toujours plus d’égalité. Pour la guerre…


Face à la terreur, donnons de la voix ; face au mal, toujours pardonnons. Contre les bombes, des fleurs vertes ; contre la dou-leur, il y a cette chanson. Pour la science, il y a des ressources et des moments pour briller. Contre l’illettrisme, les lettres ; entre nous, rien que la paix. Pour la guerre…

(La salle chante en chœur) Rien du tout ! /Pour la guerre, rien du tout ! /Pour la guerre, rien du tout !

42. The representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran said that he had written a poem, but because of the wonderful song, he would skip most of it, only reciting the last stanza, as it was in the same spirit as the song:

Inside us There is another unity. Behind each eye here, One glowing water. Every forest branch moves differently In the breeze, but as they sway, They connect at the roots.


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ANNEX

Plenary debate at the 202nd session of the Executive Board Unedited statements submitted in writing by Member States

Allemagne / Germany

Mr President of the General Conference, Mr President of the Executive Board, Madam Director-General, Distinguished Delegates,

Germany is grateful for the opportunity to transmit the written version of its national statement for the Plenary Session, for inclusion in the documentation of the 202nd Executive Board. We hope that, by choosing to dispense with reading out our national statement in the Plenary Session, we will contribute to a more efficient Board meeting.

The 202nd Executive Board has given itself a very ambitious agenda. The Board will finalize the Programme and Budget for the upcoming four years, as defined in document 39 C/5. It will also nominate a new Director-General to be elected by the General Conference for a four-year period. Both decisions will be of utmost importance to UNESCO because they will determine the future of the Organization for the upcoming years.

Germany welcomes the Integrated Budget Framework. This new approach represents a great challenge for UNESCO, and it will only function well if the Organization succeeds in mobilizing the extrabudgetary funds required to cover the costs. The Structured Financing Dialogue – which has gotten off to a promising start during the process of elaborating the 39 C/5 – will therefore have to be intensified in the coming months.

The need to develop an effective fund-raising strategy that comprises and harmonizes the fund-raising activities of the different programme sectors has to be reiterated. The already broad mandate of UNESCO can only be implemented in a satisfactory way by concentrating on UNESCO’s core competencies within the framework of the five programme sectors.

By introducing an ever-increasing number of politically controversial topics to the agenda of UNESCO, the Organization risks not only internal division and tedious debates, but also losing further credibility, both among Member States and in the international arena.

For a long time UNESCO has been suffering from considerable budgetary constraints due to unpaid assessed contributions by a number of Member States. The recent letters of the Director-General concerning the grave financial problems of UNESCO have reminded us that the already tense financial situation has worsened in recent months.

Germany, as one of UNESCO’s largest contributors, meets its financial commitments. We have paid our entire assessed contribution at the beginning of 2017 in order to help stabilize UNESCO’s financial situation, and we call on other Member States to meet their financial obligations as well.

The incoming Director-General will face the challenge of continuing and intensifying the reform process within UNESCO.

If UNESCO fails to reform, it will not only jeopardize the implementation of its important programmes, but will also weaken its position vis-à-vis other international organizations. This could be especially harmful in areas where UNESCO rightfully strives to play a leading role within the framework of international organizations, e.g. in implementing SDG 4.

The open-ended Working Group on Governance has presented a series of recommendations to further improve the functioning and interaction of the General Conference, the Executive Board, the Secretariat and the intergovernmental bodies of UNESCO. These proposals have to be carefully studied by the Executive Board.

Successful performance of well-functioning UNESCO bodies should be encouraged and respected. Germany therefore strongly maintains that the true functional autonomy of the education-related category 1 UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning (UIL) as well as of the UNESCO International Institute for Educational Planning (IIEP) should be preserved.


Germany believes that our country can continue to make constructive and valuable contributions to UNESCO’s further development as a member of the Executive Board. We therefore would be grateful for your support for Germany’s candidature for election to the Executive Board for a second, consecutive term.


Maroc / Morocco

Monsieur le Président du Conseil Exécutif, Madame la Directrice Générale, Mesdames et Messieurs les Ambassadeurs et délégués Permanents, Mesdames et Messieurs,

C’est avec une vive conscience de l’importance de cette 202ème Session que je m’adresse, aujourd’hui à vous car, comme vous le savez nous sommes à une étape décisive de l’histoire de notre Organisation. Les défis sont nombreux et considérables.

Plus que jamais, à l’heure où l’UNESCO fait face à des ultimatums majeurs et éminents, nous devons, nous Etats membres, démontrer notre solidarité, faire preuve de sagesse et avoir à cœur d’illustrer l’excellence de cette Organisation aux fins de surmonter les obstacles et répondre mieux aux attentes de nos peuples.

Chers Collègues,

Pour ce qui est du Budget, un consensus est en train de se dégager, la corrélation entre la réalité des finances et les aspirations et objectifs des Etats membres a été évaluée, faisons preuve de courage et de responsabilité, permettons au Secrétariat d’assumer ses actions, ses capacités d’innovation, d’une manière optimale, efficace et adaptée aux réalités.

A cet effet, le Projet de programme et de Budget pour 2018-2021, 39 C5 doit refonder l’action de l’UNESCO sur l’essentiel, mieux affecter les ressources, améliorer la gestion et le contrôle et remettre les programmes au centre du système et ce, conformément aux recommandations du Groupe de travail à composition non limitée.

Ayant à l’esprit le rôle essentiel de l’UNESCO, ses deux objectifs primordiaux et ses priorités globales, nous accueillons avec satisfaction le cadre budgétaire intégré qui facilitera le dialogue structuré sur le financement et permettra, non seulement une grande transparence et une adéquation des ressources du budget global de l’Organisation mais également une meilleure mobilisation des ressources extrabudgétaires et la mise en œuvre du Programme et du Budget.

A cet égard, nous saluons les efforts déployés par le Secrétariat pour améliorer son action de mobilisation de ressources par l’intégration du dialogue structuré sur le financement et nous l’encourageons dans ses efforts pour rédiger une version définitive de la Stratégie de mobilisation de ressources pour 2018-2019.

Concernant la Stratégie de gestion des ressources humaines, certes, depuis 2011, plusieurs améliorations ont été observées dans la procédure de recrutement. Néanmoins, certains disfonctionnements persistent, notamment le manque de transparence et l’opacité dans la dernière phase du processus de recrutement. Nous déplorons la pratique des pressions pour la favorisation de certains candidats au détriment de ceux qui sont les mieux classés à l’issue des entretiens. Nous suivrons avec attention l’application de la Stratégie 2018-2019 car nous estimons que la transparence, l’équité et la justice dans la gestion des ressources humaines sont les clés de l’efficacité et le professionnalisme des membres du Secrétariat.

Le Maroc a appuyé fortement la Décision 200 EX/7 sur la lutte contre les violences liées au genre et a proposé la Décision 201 EX/35 sur l’importance de combattre la violence et le harcèlement en milieu scolaire. Nous avons également soutenu l’adoption de la Décision 197 EX/46 relative à l’action de l’UNESCO dans la lutte contre l’extrémisme violent.

Notre implication dans l’adoption des trois décisions est due à notre conviction que ces thématiques représentent le cœur de l’engagement de l’UNESCO. Nous saluons tous les efforts qui ont été déployés par le Secrétariat à ce sujet, notamment sa contribution dans les orientations mondiales en matière de lutte contre la violence de genre en milieu scolaire ainsi que la contribution de l’Organisation aux efforts globaux du système des Nations Unies pour maintenir la paix et prévenir les conflits.

Inclure les catastrophes naturelles dans le champ d’application de la Stratégie de renforcement de l’action de l’UNESCO en matière de la protection de la culture et de promotion du pluralisme en cas de conflit armé est un acte primordial et urgent. Les récentes catastrophes naturelles qu’a connu les caraïbes, les Etats Unies et d’autres pays


démontrent la vulnérabilité de la culture, des sites du patrimoine et du patrimoine immatériel face au changement climatique.

Aussi, il est indispensable que le prochain ou la prochaine Directrice Générale poursuive ses efforts pour appliquer la Stratégie et mobiliser les fonds nécessaires afin de sauvegarder et protéger la culture et le Patrimoine de l’Humanité.

Le changement climatique est une réalité dont les conséquences et les risques impactent sur tous les continents, l’UNESCO s’est engagée à travers plus de 30 programmes dans tous ses domaines de compétence à aider les Etats membres à s’adapter au changement climatique, à en atténuer les effets et à comprendre les implications éthiques pour les générations présentes et futures. C’est à ce titre, notamment que la Conférence Générale a invité la Directrice Générale à élaborer un projet final de Déclaration de principes éthiques en rapport avec le changement climatique.

A cet effet, nous exhortons les Etats membres de faire preuve de solidarité et de sagesse afin d’adopter le texte proposé sans débat et sans changement.

La sécurité des journalistes et la question de l’impunité est l’une des priorités de mon pays et de ma Délégation. Nous saluons l’engagement de l’UNESCO dans ce domaine, par la mise en œuvre du Plan d’action des Nations Unies, par le renforcement des capacités des institutions judiciaires et par l’information, la sensibilisation afin de promouvoir la sécurité des journalistes. Il est important de signaler, à cet égard le rôle important de l’IFAP et du PIDC.

Nous sommes conscients des difficultés de transposer le plan d’action des Nations Unies dans les pratiques et les politiques nationales. Aussi, nous encourageons l’Organisation à poursuivre ses efforts dans ce domaine, en collaboration avec les Etats membres et tous les partenaires, notamment le « Groupe d’Amis pour la sécurité des journalistes », dont le Maroc est membre.

Le 39 C/5 reflète clairement les modalités de mise en œuvre de l’ODD 4- Education 2030 au niveau national, ainsi que la conduite de la coordination et l’examen et suivi de l’ODD 4 au niveaux mondial et régional. Nous nous félicitons, à cet égard, du rôle de principal mécanisme mondial de consultation et de coordination multipartite pour l’ODD 4.

En outre, le soutien politique et le renforcement des capacités n’ont pas encore eu les résultats attendus. Certes, l’aide à l’éducation a baissé considérablement et l’éducation privée connait un succès important dans les pays en développent, néanmoins, l’Organisation est appelée à fournir plus d’efforts dans ce domaine.

Les Etats membres ont tenu à revoir la gouvernance de notre Organisation à travers les travaux d’un Groupe de travail sur la gouvernance, les procédures et les méthodes de travail des Organes Directeurs. Ce fut un travail de longue haleine qui a connu des débats parfois houleux mais grâce à la sagesse, à la clairvoyance ainsi qu’à l’efficacité du Président de la Conférence Générale, de ses vice-présidents et des présidents des sous-groupes, nous avons pu accomplir un travail remarquable qui sera certainement enrichi durant son examen à la Commission APX de la Conférence Générale.

Chers Collègues,

Je tiens à remercier et saluer, au nom de mon pays les Gouvernements jordanien et palestinien pour avoir accepté l’initiative du Président du Conseil Exécutif de reporter la Décision sur « la Palestine occupée » à la prochaine Session du Conseil. Nous nous félicitons de cet esprit de consensus.

Je vous remercie de votre attention.


Suède / Sweden

Sweden aligns itself to the EU statement.

Sweden’s four year mandate in UNESCO’s Executive Board is coming to an end: four years during which we have made an effort to combine initiatives with concrete action and to work in an inclusive manner together with colleagues from all regions.

We have seen a remarkable change and reform over the last four years at policy level here in UNESCO. Key policies are in place, which will lead to increased transparency and a more developed culture of evaluation and learning and ultimately to more results on country level. Now we need a strong effort to implement and consolidate these policy decisions so that we see real change. In our eyes an ambitious reform of UNESCO’s presence on country and regional level is the piece of the puzzle still missing.

Our joint reform efforts over these four years have resulted in important decisions such as the integrated budget, the structured financing dialogue and a strengthened results framework with an improved gender equality mainstreaming. To us the decision at this Executive Board session on the new Human Resources Strategy is a further important element for the broader reform package.

Sweden is a strong supporter of the United Nations system. The broad support for the UN Secretary-General's reform agenda illustrates the importance we attach to an effective United Nations, its role at the center of multilateralism, and as a platform for the delivery of our common commitments. This is also why Sweden engaged actively in the Working Group on Governance here in UNESCO and we welcome its results. We want to see a robust implementation model to ensure that the proposals from the Working Group on Governance are implemented, since that would signify a changed working culture in UNESCO.

UNESCO should connect to the overall ongoing reform efforts in the United Nations reform agenda, especially in the light of Agenda 2030, where UNESCO has an important normative role to play. Sweden fully subscribes to the principles for reform articulated by the UN Secretary-General: a country-level and people centered perspective, gender-parity, decentralized responsibility and decision making, and reformed budget procedures.

Therefore we are deeply worried about how Member States view their multilateral commitments today, including how they honor our joint system of funding through assessed contributions. In Agenda 2030 Member States commit to a well-resourced UN and we must not fail to do so. In addition to uphold the principle of assessed contributions this also means that the budget level in UNESCO must be safeguarded for increases in inflation and statutory costs. Since the integrated budget consists of two sorts of funding it is furthermore important to be able to distinguish between “regular budget” and “extrabudgetary resources”.

The Swedish extra budgetary framework with UNESCO has evolved over the years. Today it is a multiannual agreement amounting to 54 million USD over four years focusing on UNESCO’s unique added value as a normative actor with a rights based approach and in direct dialogue with Member States around the world.

Ensuring the safety of journalists is a priority for the Swedish Government. A safe environment for journalists, media workers and social media producers is a corner stone in democratic societies. Here UNESCO has a unique mandate within the UN, which includes the lead coordinating role of the implementation of the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity. A clear gender focus is essential since women media workers are facing double vulnerabilities and frequently are victims of intimidation, threats and violence. The 2030 Agenda and in particular SDG 16.10 provides an important platform for the continued work.

Despite a strong political commitment to enhance journalists’ safety – as manifested by an increasing number of resolutions in different UN fora – we see a negative trend with violence, hate, threats and intimidation towards journalists. Therefore, it is not enough with the focus on the killings of journalists. UNESCO must work with all the elements as listed in SDG 16.10.1.

The Swedish Government recently presented a National Action Plan to protect journalists, media workers, artists and authors as well as elected officials. All these actors use freedom of expression as their most important work tool. The Plan presents a number of actions by the Government to tackle the negative development and to ensure a continued democratic debate. Our cooperation with UNESCO in this matter has benefitted our domestic work and we encourage other Member States to develop national initiatives for comprehensive action in this field. The 2030 Agenda provides the pathways to achieve the peaceful, sustainable and equitable societies we want. All countries – rich and poor – share the responsibility of turning this promise into a reality for millions of people around the world. It will not be done by governments alone. All stakeholders from across society have a part to play. That is why we need a stronger dialogue with the NGO community in UNESCO’s governing bodies. Measuring our progress against the Sustainable Development Goals will be essential both for decision making and accountability.


Sweden has therefore developed a set of national goals, linked to the SDGs and our national budget. On the global level Sweden will continue to work with the High Level Group in support of implementation of the 2030 Agenda in order to create a platform for Member States and UNESCO to share experiences and discuss challenges ahead. In this area, UNESCO has a decisive role in supporting and coordinating the implementation of the SDG 4 on Education, and Sweden fully supports the efforts of UNESCO to reinforce the framework of global, regional and national educational stakeholders. The programme Capacity Development for Education has been specifically designed to promote development through education, and serve as an important example of UNESCO’s role in empowering ministries and public agencies with the capacities to improve their national education systems. Resolution 2347, adopted on 24 March 2017, was an important step for the international community in order to protect cultural goods from destruction looting and trafficking. As a member of the Security Council, Sweden was proud to be a part of this important decision. We welcome UNESCO’s actions for the preservation of cultural heritage and to fight illicit trafficking of cultural goods. Nationally, to counteract illicit trafficking Sweden has established a national coordination task force. In June 2017 Sweden was pleased to co-host, together with Fiji, “The Ocean Conference” on the implementation of SDG 14 on Healthy Oceans and Seas. The deteriorating condition of our oceans must ring alarm bells for us all. The multi-stakeholder participation, and commitments made during the conference, highlighted the fact that saving the oceans will require all sectors of society to play their part – and the conference also showed that they are ready to do so. The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission in UNESCO plays an important role in the implementation of SDG 14 and we appreciate its active participation in the conference.

The oceans are also affected by, and in return affect, our climate and UNESCO has an important role to play in all parts of its mandate as regards climate change.

The Nordic countries are strong, but critical friends of the UN system. It is important with the Nordic voice in UNESCO’s Executive Board. Therefore, we hope for Members States’ strong support to ensure that Finland is elected to the Executive Board after Sweden.

Finally, let me take the opportunity to thank the Director-General Irina Bokova and her team for all efforts during her mandate. Lastly, let me say thank you to our colleagues in the Executive Board and also to the President of the Executive Board Michael Worbs for these years. We wish the new Executive Board members good luck in the continuation of our important work!

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Documents

执 行 局 يﺬﻴﻔﻨﺘﻟا ﺲﻠﻟﻤﺠاunesdoc.unesco.org/images/0026/002609/260921m.pdf · Mr Nassim MOHAND AMER . Argentina . Representative . Mr Rodolfo Héctor TERRAGNO

执行局 يﺬﻴﻔﻨﺘﻟا ﺲﻠﻟﻤﺠاunesdoc.unesco.org/images/0026/002609/260921m.pdf · Mr Nassim MOHAND AMER . Argentina . Representative . Mr Rodolfo Héctor TERRAGNO