The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was founded with the aim of fostering international collaboration in education, science, and culture. This mission was largely shaped by its first Director-General, Sir Julian Sorell Huxley.Huxley played a critical role in defining the humanist philosophy of UNESCO, which focuses on human well-being and freedom, and aims for happiness and self-fulfilment. He proposed a holistic vision for the organization, which he coined as its 'scientific humanism'.At the core of UNESCO's humanist ideology is the belief in the dignity and autonomy of all humans, and the importance of improving humanity's social conditions. This ideology is reflected in UNESCO's three primary areas of focus:Education: UNESCO has worked to foster global educational collaboration and enhance learning opportunities worldwide. Its efforts have been particularly notable in post-World War II social sciences and in the reformation of education systems in former colonial regions as European empires collapsed.Science: UNESCO has contributed significantly to global scientific collaboration and innovation. It has placed an emphasis on involving young scientists and technicians in world-class research.Culture: Humanism, with its respect for cultural diversity and autonomy, underpins UNESCO's work in promoting intercultural understanding and protecting cultural heritage.One of UNESCO's landmark contributions was the 1951 Statement on Race, which opposed any form of racial segregation or discrimination. This statement, endorsed by many leading scientists of the time, established that all humans belong to the same species and that 'race' has no scientific basis.
See Also:UNESCO Courier article for July-August 1950C.D. Darlington’s copy of the 1951 UNESCO statement on racePhotograph of Humayun KabirJawaharlal Nehru profile in section 'Peace Begins in the Minds of Men' from UNESCO’s The Courier journal
See Also:UNESCO Courier article for July-August 1950C.D. Darlington’s copy of the 1951 UNESCO statement on racePhotograph of Humayun KabirJawaharlal Nehru profile in section 'Peace Begins in the Minds of Men' from UNESCO’s The Courier journal