This book traces the history of UNESCO from its foundational idealism to its current stature as the preeminent international organization for science, education, and culture, building a well rounded understanding of this important organization.

The book:



provides an overview of the organization and its institutional architecture in the context of its humanistic idealism
details the subsequent challenges UNESCO faced through cold war and power politics, global dependence and interdependence, and the rise of identity and culture in global politics
analyses the functioning of UNESCO administration, finance, and its various constituencies including the secretariat, member-states, and civil society
explores the major controversies and issues underlying the initiatives in education, sciences, culture and communication
examines the current agenda and future challenges through three major issues in UNESCO: Education or All, digital divide issues, and norms on cultural diversity
assesses the role of UNESCO in making norms in complex world of multiple actors and intersecting issue-areas.

Reflecting on UNESCO’s vision, its everyday practices, and future challenges; this work is an essential resource for students and scholars of international relations and international organizations.