The United Arab Emirates announced that the country won a seat on the Executive 
Board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization 
for the tenure 2019-2023. This marks the fourth time that the UAE has won a 
seat at one of UNESCO's three constitutional bodies and will use the 
opportunity to further drive the organization's mission and goals. 

Her Excellency Noura Al Kaabi, the Minister of Culture and Knowledge 
Development, headed the UAE delegation participating at the 40th session of 
UNESCO's General Conference, where she met with a number of officials, 
Ministers of Culture, Ministers of Education and heads of member states 
delegations.

Securing 107 votes, the win reflects the international community's confidence 
in the UAE's role in championing the founding principles of UNESCO across the 
scientific, educational, and cultural sectors. 

HE Noura Al Kaabi said: "The UAE's appointment to the UNESCO's Executive Board 
reflects the wide acknowledgement of the country's prominent efforts in 
advancing initiatives in the fields of culture, science and education. This 
significant milestone is a recognition of our firm belief in the power of 
UNESCO to bring about peace and prosperity to nations worldwide. The UAE 
reiterates its commitment to the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable 
Development and to working with all member states to ensure its realization 
through programs and initiatives. We are open for dialogue, exchange, and 
collaboration with all member states to find the best solutions that meet the 
needs of the people we serve."

Over the next four years, the UAE will work alongside the other members states 
of the Executive Board towards a more efficient and effective UNESCO. 

The UAE was founded in December 1971, and on 20 April 1972, it became a member 
of UNESCO. Over the years, the UAE has significantly participated in many of 
UNESCO's programmes, donated funds, as well as developed home-grown initiatives 
for the benefit of people from around the world. In 2018, the UAE was ranked as 
the 6th top voluntary donor to UNESCO and currently holds membership on six 
UNESCO committees. Additionally, the country has one site inscribed on UNESCO's 
World Heritage List, eight national and multinational Intangible Heritage 
inscribed, two cities designated as Creative Cities by UNESCO, established over 
120 UNESCO associated schools, and hosts the Regional Centre for Education 
Planning (RCEP) under the auspices of UNESCO, amongst many other initiatives. 

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1033666/UAE_UNESCO_Board.jpg

Source: UAE Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development