A visionary leader for UNESCO: Dr Khaled El-Enany and Egypt's global promise
Egyptologist and Egypt’s former minister of tourism and antiquities Dr Khaled El-Enany has been nominated as Egypt's candidate for the position of head of UNESCO and his candidacy is being backed by Bangladesh
Dr Khaled El-Enany has been nominated as Egypt's candidate for the position of head of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). A university professor, famed Egyptologist and Egypt's former minister of tourism and antiquities, it is safe to say his interest and expertise align with the position. So, the Bangladesh government has promised to support his candidacy.
At a time when the world is yearning for unity and cultural exchange, Egypt has put forward a visionary leader, Dr Khaled El-Enany, as its candidate for the position of Director-General of UNESCO. With a career spanning over three decades, Dr El-Enany embodies the qualities needed to lead the organisation into a new era—one that prioritises inclusivity, peace, and cooperation.
His ambitious vision is reflected in his campaign slogan: 'UNESCO for the People.' This is not just a tagline—it is a call to action to ensure that UNESCO remains a beacon of hope for all nations, transcending political divides to serve humanity as a whole.
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Dr El-Enany's career began in academia and public service, where his dedication to preserving heritage, advancing education, and fostering international cooperation became evident. Known for his strategic leadership during his tenure as Egypt's Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, he spearheaded initiatives that not only preserved Egypt's rich cultural heritage but also made it accessible to the world.
However, Dr El-Enany is not solely defined by his work in heritage. His professional journey spans a diverse range of fields, including sustainable development, scientific research, and tourism. This multifaceted expertise places him in a unique position to address the wide-ranging challenges UNESCO faces today, from climate change to cultural preservation.
While Dr El-Enany's candidacy enjoys strong support from the Arab League and the African Union, his mission transcends regional interests. He envisions a UNESCO that truly represents the aspirations of all cultures and nations, ensuring that no voice is left unheard.
His campaign emphasises three core goals:
Depoliticising UNESCO to ensure it functions as a neutral platform for global dialogue, promoting peace by fostering understanding and rapprochement among cultures and serving all peoples, ensuring that UNESCO's initiatives reach every corner of the globe.
"UNESCO should be a meeting point for diverse cultures, not a battleground for political interests," Dr El-Enany has often said, underscoring his commitment to neutrality and inclusivity.
Dr El-Enany's campaign has received widespread international support, reflecting trust in his ability to lead UNESCO effectively. Countries like France, Brazil, and Turkey have publicly endorsed his candidacy, alongside Egypt's regional allies.
Supporting Dr El-Enany would not just be a diplomatic gesture but also a shared commitment to the values of education and cultural preservation, especially given that Bangladesh's rich heritage and dedication to peace align seamlessly with Dr El-Enany's vision for UNESCO.
As the campaign builds momentum, Dr El-Enany is preparing to present his detailed vision to UNESCO on 15 March 2025. His team is working tirelessly to engage communities worldwide, ensuring that his message reaches beyond political circles to resonate with ordinary people who believe in UNESCO's mission.
From local newspapers to social media platforms, the campaign is driven by transparency and outreach. The candidate's tours and engagements are documented and shared, offering a glimpse into his dedication to creating a UNESCO that works for all.
