Indonesia vows to boost UNESCO influence and champion Global South voices
Indonesia's UNESCO representative pledged a more active role, emphasizing innovative financing and stronger representation for the Global South.
At the 225th session of UNESCO's Executive Board in Paris, Indonesia's UNESCO delegate announced plans to contribute more proactively, offering ideas and best practices to elevate Global South perspectives in education, science and culture. In talks with Executive Board Chair Nasser bin Hamad Al Hinzab, both sides explored ways to improve governance, transparency and to create sustainable financing beyond member dues, involving development partners and the Qatar Fund.
Al Hinzab welcomed Indonesia's initiative, noting that active member-state engagement is vital for strategic projects and heritage evaluation. The Indonesian representative pointed to a recently created Board of Trustees within the Ministry of Culture, aimed at mobilising private sector and philanthropic resources for cultural restoration. He called for innovative funding models and faster nomination processes for Intangible Cultural Heritage, stressing that governments cannot act alone. The statement reaffirmed Indonesia's readiness to serve as a constructive partner to keep UNESCO inclusive and relevant amid global challenges.
Why it matters
Indonesia's push for a larger UNESCO role could reshape funding and representation for developing nations in global cultural and educational policies.
How the sides frame it
LOW AGREEMENTCenter coverage highlights Indonesia’s pledge to increase UNESCO influence and amplify Global South perspectives, while right-leaning coverage emphasizes Oman’s promotion of education, culture, AI and sustainable peace at UNESCO.
CENTER
Centrist coverage frames the story as Indonesia committing to a more proactive role in UNESCO, stressing the push for Global South voices, better governance, transparency and new financing mechanisms.
RIGHT
Right-leaning coverage frames the story as Oman championing education, culture and artificial-intelligence initiatives as the foundation for durable peace, highlighting new prizes and programmes.
The right emphasises
- Oman views investment in education, culture and knowledge as the cornerstone of durable peace.
- Announcement of the UNESCO-Sultan Haitham Prize for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.
- Adoption of AI tools in education and involvement in the SDG 4 Education 2030 High-Level Steering Committee.
In this story
