UNESCO’s Activity in the Second Half of the 1940s – 1950s of the XX Century

Abstract

UNESCO’s activity (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) in the second half of the 1940s - 1950s of the XX century are researched. It was the first period of the activities of the international organization, when UNESCO had to take into account the mistakes of previous times, to determine plans for the future, to find its place in the system of international relations. UNESCO’s Constitution was adopted in London in 1945, it entered into force in 1946. Special attention was given to Governance: The General Conference, The Executive Board, The Secretariat, which consists of the Director-General and the Staff appointed by him or her.

The author analyses the UNESCO’s policy in educational sphere: free primary education, campaign for universal compulsory schooling, supporting Member States in their efforts, encouraging their educational activities to incorporate the Organization’s own objectives, equal access to education. Special attention was given to one of the world’s first international journals “UNESCO Courier”. The first issue of rolled off the presses in Paris in 1948. Also United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization undertakes a major program designed to combat racism.

During this period of UNESCO’s activity The Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict is adopted. It is the first international treaty with a world, wide vocation focusing exclusively on the protection of cultural heritage in the event of armed conflict.

This article focuses on the inauguration of UNESCO Headquarters in Paris in 1958. It was designed by three architects from different countries.

Author outlines the results of UNESCO’s activity from the time of its creation to the end of the 50s of the XX century and plans for future active policy of the Organization.