Division of Relations with Organizations and New Partnerships

Programme

PROGRAMME 2008-2009 (34 C/5)

Part III. Support for Programme Execution

B. External relations and cooperation

Cooperation with international organizations and new partnerships

UNESCO will continue to realize its priorities and goals by building efficient relations with its Member States, Associate Members, observers and territories; through partnership and engagement with the United Nations, its specialized agencies, programmes, funds and organs; and through collaboration with other international, intergovernmental and non-governmental agencies and organizations. UNESCO will develop and expand these relations to secure the universal membership of the Organization and to realize effective international cooperation in all its fields of competence. UNESCO will work to develop a genuine “culture of partnership”, involving civil society actors, to enhance the impact of its programme activities at the country level.

Extrabudgetary contributions will be important to reach the strategic programme objectives and biennial sectoral priorities. UNESCO will improve the management of these contributions by developing and implementing an extrabudgetary resources mobilization strategic plan.

Throughout the biennium, UNESCO will make a proactive contribution to United Nations system activities and mechanisms as well as interagency cooperation, especially as the United Nations reform efforts gather momentum.

The Sector for External Relations and Cooperation, headed by the Assistant Director-General, is responsible for these efforts. The ADG is assisted by an Executive Offi ce responsible for the Sector’s coordination, liaison, evaluation, administration, communication and information.

Following are the biennial priorities and strategic objectives of the ERC Sector:

1. Strengthening relations with Member States
2. Enhancing the role and capacity of National Commissions
3. Reaffirming the profile, presence and impact of UNESCO in the United Nations family, in cooperation with intergovernmental organizations
4. Developing a culture of partnership with civil society
5. Improving the visibility and image of UNESCO through efficient administration of UNESCO Prizes
6. Strengthening and diversifying extrabudgetary resources in support of programme priorities and in further pursuance of the related Action Plan

Please consult Approved programme and budget, 2008-2009 (34C/5)