Functions and responsibilities

As defined by the Constitution, the purpose of the Organization is: "to contribute to peace and security by promoting collaboration among nations through education, science and culture in order to further universal respect for justice, for the rule of law and for the human rights and fundamental freedoms which are affirmed for the peoples of the world, without distinction of race, sex, language or religion, by the Charter of the United Nations’ (Article I.1 of the UNESCO Constitution).

UNESCO probably has the widest range of programmes among all specialised UN organisations. It acts as a global forum for intellectual cooperation in the following fields:

Major programme I: Education for all – lifelong learning
Major programme II: Sciences at the service of development
Major programme III: Cultural development: heritage and diversity
Major programme IV: Development of knowledge societies

UNESCO develops a new programme in biannual intervals (currently 2012–2013), in which it defines its main fields of action. A medium-term strategy (currently 2008–2013) guides UNESCO in its longer-range outlook.
UNESCO is a platform for international cooperation, offering an exchange of information, experience and ideas. In line with its five fields of action, it perceives itself as a forum to solve global problems, create international standards and develop capacities, acting as a clearing house and catalyst for international cooperation. It is not, however, a development aid agency or a body set up for project financing.

The UNESCO programme is being implemented at a global scale by the governments of its member states, the national commissions for UNESCO as well as more than 9000 educational institutions which make up the international network of UNESCO associated schools and the more than 700 UNESCO chairs at universities. Added to this are small-scale projects organised by some 5000 UNESCO clubs, associations and centres, all of which work towards achieving the mission of UNESCO.