The UNESCO General Conference re-elected Italy for the sixth consecutive 4-year term (2019-2023) to the Organization’s 58-member Executive Board.
With 162 votes, Italy came out second-best, after Switzerland, in the number of votes received from the General Conference.
“This excellent result confirms the widespread recognition for Italy’s commitment to the issues of the protection and promotion of cultural heritage, inclusive education and international scientific cooperation,” said the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Luigi Di Maio. He continued: “Italy, which holds the largest number of World Heritage Sites, is a player of reference for the International Community in promoting the value of inter-cultural dialogue and mutual tolerance. The very important number of votes received constitutes a stimulus to act consistently and resolutely within UNESCO, aware of the responsibility we have with respect to all those who have confided in us.”
During its mandate, Italy will engage in strengthening UNESCO’s capacity to respond to the challenges posed by sustainable development, starting with the impact of climate change on the World Heritage Sites and the local communities. Other fields of action will include scientific diplomacy, especially through the Trieste-based UNESCO Research Centres, water resource management, promoting equal access to education, supporting the freedom of expression and the security of journalists.