Historic UNESCO General Conference Convenes in Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Samarkand Hosts Landmark UNESCO General Conference

The ancient city of Samarkand, Uzbekistan, is currently hosting the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference, a significant event taking place from October 30 to November 13, 2025. This gathering is particularly historic as it is the first time in 40 years that the biennial conference is being held outside of UNESCO's headquarters in Paris, a decision that underscores the international community's growing trust in Uzbekistan's contributions to global cultural and educational development.

The choice of Samarkand, a city inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List as 'Samarkand – Crossroad of Cultures' since 2001, reflects its enduring legacy as a pivotal hub along the historic Great Silk Road. Over 5,000 participants from 193 countries, including heads of state, government officials, scholars, and cultural figures, have converged at the Silk Road Samarkand Conference Centre to deliberate on critical global issues.

Key Agendas and Uzbekistan's Initiatives

The conference agenda is comprehensive, focusing on setting UNESCO's strategic direction, adopting its work program and budget for 2026–2029, and electing a new Director-General. Khaled al-Anani, former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities of Egypt, is expected to be confirmed as the new Director-General, succeeding Audrey Azoulay.

Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev delivered the opening address, highlighting the country's commitment to UNESCO's goals and proposing several key initiatives. These include:

• Establishing a UNESCO Platform for Inclusive Education and a World Summit on Vocational Education.
• Launching the pilot project 'Artificial Intelligence – School' and an International Forum on AI Ethics.
• Strengthening the Memory of the World Program and proposing November 19 as International Documentary Heritage Day.
• Creating an International Institute of Digital Heritage.
• Hosting an International Congress on Crafts and Folk Arts in Bukhara in 2027.
• Establishing a UNESCO Academy for Women's Leadership and a Global Forum on Women in Education, Culture, and Science.
• Launching the 'UNESCO Eco-Capital' initiative and an international symposium on climate change and cultural heritage in Khiva.

Global Challenges and Cultural Diplomacy

Discussions at the conference are addressing pressing global challenges such as safeguarding cultural heritage in conflict zones, the role of digital technologies and open science, and the ethics of emerging fields. The event also features a variety of side events, including cultural exhibitions, round tables, and a Youth Forum focused on climate action. A notable cultural highlight will be a concert by UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Jean-Michel Jarre at Registan Square on November 1, 2025.

Uzbekistan's rich cultural heritage is further emphasized by its numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which include the Historic Centre of Bukhara, the Historic Centre of Shakhrisyabz, Itchan Kala, and the recently inscribed Silk Roads: Zarafshan-Karakum Corridor. The hosting of this conference in Samarkand is seen as a testament to Uzbekistan's active engagement with UNESCO and its role as a bridge between regions, fostering cultural dialogue and mutual understanding.