London, UK — October 6, 2025
Dr. Khaled El-Enany’s Historic Triumph at UNESCO: A New Era for Global Heritage and Diplomacy
In a truly historic achievement for both Egypt and the wider Arab world, Dr. Khaled El-Enany has been overwhelmingly elected as the next Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Dr. El-Enany’s triumph marks the first time an Arab national has held the prestigious top post of the global organization since its founding in 1945, cementing a major diplomatic and cultural milestone.
Decisive Vote Confirms Global Confidence
The election, held during the 222nd session of UNESCO’s Executive Board in Paris, resulted in a record-breaking landslide victory for the Egyptian candidate. Dr. El-Enany secured an unprecedented 55 votes out of a possible 57 (in some reports 58), soundly defeating his rival, Firmin Edouard Matoko of the Republic of Congo, who received only two votes. The overwhelming result is being hailed as one of the most decisive wins in the organization’s history.
* Egyptologist and Cultural Diplomat: Dr. El-Enany, a renowned Egyptologist and former two-time Egyptian Minister (Minister of Antiquities and later Minister of Tourism and Antiquities), brings a wealth of on-the-ground experience to the role. His academic background and years of public service overseeing major heritage projects in Egypt, such as the restoration of the Pyramids Plateau and the development of the Grand Egyptian Museum, make him uniquely qualified to lead UNESCO’s core mission.
* Broad International Support: His candidacy enjoyed massive regional backing, having been officially endorsed by both the African Union and the Arab League. This united front was instrumental in his victory, demonstrating a strong consensus within the African and Arab blocs regarding his vision for the organization.
* Vision for the Future: Dr. El-Enany campaigned under the banner “UNESCO for the People,” promising an inclusive approach. In his acceptance speech, he pledged to work with all member states to modernize UNESCO and focus on strengthening its technical role in education, science, and cultural preservation, vowing to address challenges like funding gaps and the need for depoliticized programmatic work.
Dr. El-Enany will officially take office in early 2026 for a four-year term, succeeding France’s Audrey Azoulay.
A Historic Achievement for the Arab World
The significance of this election extends far beyond the borders of Egypt. For the Arab world, which has long sought representation at the helm of a major United Nations cultural body, Dr. El-Enany’s victory is a moment of profound diplomatic and symbolic celebration. It is viewed as an affirmation of the Arab region’s vast and ancient contributions to global civilization and a reflection of the international community’s confidence in the region’s ability to provide high-level leadership.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi was among the first to offer congratulations, calling the election a “historic achievement” for Egypt that “adds to the country’s diplomatic and cultural record.”
Dr. El-Enany now faces the challenge of navigating an organization dealing with complex issues, including threats to global heritage sites, educational disparities, and securing stable funding following the withdrawal of major contributors. However, his strong mandate and deep expertise in cultural affairs are seen as assets that will help him champion UNESCO’s mission of promoting peace through intercultural dialogue.
Headline Points
* New UNESCO Director-General: Dr. Khaled El-Enany (Egypt).
* Historic First: First Egyptian and first Arab to ever lead UNESCO.
* Election Result: Won a landslide with 55 out of 57/58 votes on the Executive Board.
* Expertise: Renowned Egyptologist and former Egyptian Minister of Tourism and Antiquities.
* Term Start: Expected to officially take office in early 2026.
* International Support: Supported by the African Union and the Arab League.
* Key Focus: Modernizing the organization and reinforcing its mission under the theme “UNESCO for the People.”
