Communities

Non-governmental organizations and foundations

• © UNESCO/Niamh Burke
• Schoolchildren in class

Since its inception, UNESCO has recognized that non-governmental organizations and foundations which have concerns close to its own play an important role in international cooperation in the service of peoples.

For more than a half-century, UNESCO has woven a valuable tapestry of cooperative relations with a number of such organizations in its fields of competence, thereby enabling it to work with civil society in achieving its objectives and to disseminate through them its democratic and ethical ideals.

Currently, UNESCO is enjoying official relations with 319 international NGOs and 19 foundations and similar institutions which are working in the fields of competence of the Organization. In addition to this formal framework, the Organization has been carrying out a range of activities hand in hand with NGOs, not only at international and regional levels, but also at national level.

Cooperation with NGOs and foundations maintaining official relations with UNESCO

- Non-governmental organizations maintaining official relations
- Foundations maintaining official relations
- National organizations
- Collective Cooperation

Moreover, it should be stressed that UNESCO cooperates, on an informal basis, with many NGOs and foundations working in its fields of competence, before establishing “official relations”.

Useful contacts:
- Section of non-governmental organizations (ERC/RPO/NGO)
- List of UNESCO sectoral focal points for NGOs

Useful link:
The United Nations Non-Governmental Liaison Service (UN-NGLS) promotes dynamic partnerships between the United Nations and non-governmental organizations. By providing information, advice, expertise and support services, NGLS is part of the UN's effort to strengthen dialogue and win public support for economic and social development.