According to information from Arab News, the UN cultural agency has chosen Khaled El-Anani, who previously served as Egypt's Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, as the new director. The official confirmation of the selection will take place on November 6 at a UNESCO members' meeting.
The 54-year-old El-Anani became a candidate for the head of UNESCO, competing against 69-year-old Édouard Firmin Matoko from the Republic of Congo. His election campaign started in early April 2023, where he garnered significant support at the regional level and established international connections, making him a favorite in the secret ballot.
In the voting by the UNESCO Council, which includes representatives from 58 out of 194 countries, El-Anani received 55 votes, while his opponent Édouard Firmin Matoko was supported by only two votes. It is worth noting that the United States did not participate in this vote.
Although outgoing director Audrey Azoulay sought to improve the organization's funding, UNESCO still receives about 8% of its budget from the U.S., which has announced its intention to withdraw from the organization. This is expected to lead to a significant budget deficit by the end of 2026.
The U.S. administration stated that the organization supports "divisive cultural and social initiatives," pointing to bias against "pro-Palestinian and pro-Chinese" trends.
UNESCO, established after World War II to promote peace through international cooperation in education, science, and culture, is known for its work in protecting archaeological sites and cultural heritage around the world – from the Galapagos Islands to the tombs of Timbuktu.
Egypt's Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, speaking last week in Paris, emphasized: "Why can't a country like Egypt, with its rich history and layered civilization, lead this important organization? This is completely unacceptable."
However, in El-Anani's homeland, he faced criticism from environmental advocates who accused his ministry of insufficient protection of cultural heritage sites both in Cairo and on the Sinai Peninsula.
Source: islamosfera.ru
