These experts use their knowledge to help to shape the policy advice that the UKNC provides to the UK government and UNESCO. Anyone wishing to become an Advisor must be able to demonstrate expertise and experience in the relevant UNESCO fields and what they would be able to contribute to the work of the UK National Commission.
Become part of the UK UNESCO Expert Network
The UK UNESCO Expert Network is composed of high-calibre experts from higher education and specialised organisations who support the work of the UK National Commission. Alongside UNESCO Chairs and UNITWIN Networks, the Expert Network is structured into three pillars: Advisors, Accredited Experts and Non-Executive Directors.
Advisors form the bedrock of the work of the UK National Commission, reviewing applications for UNESCO Prizes or prospective UNESCO Designations.
Accredited Experts have an official role, representing the UK in UNESCO Committees, Commissions and Programmes. They work with the UKNC and the UK Permanent Delegation to UNESCO (UKPD) to advise the UK and/or devolved governments on UNESCO related matters.
Non-Executive Directors oversee the UK’s contribution to UNESCO’s global mission. They play an active role in representing the Commission at strategic meetings, events and conferences both in the UK and UNESCO Paris.
The Accreditation Process
Using their international reputation and knowledge in their chosen field, Accredited Experts provide specialist advice to, and can represent, the UK at UNESCO Commissions, Programmes, Committees and Meetings, including:
- UNESCO Intergovernmental Bioethics Committee
- UNESCO Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission
- UNESCO International Geoscience Programme Council
- UNESCO International Hydrological Programme
- UNESCO International Programme for the Development of Communication
- UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme
- UNESCO World Heritage Committee
The relevant UK Government Department approves UKNC Accredited Experts.
Each (pro-bono) Non-Executive Director is responsible for overseeing a particular field of UNESCO’s work in the UK: Education, Science, Culture, and Communication & Information. A maximum of nine Non-Executive Directors are active members of our Board at any one time. Their appointment is approved by the UK Government.
Make contact with the UK National Commission for UNESCO. We will answer any initial queries you have and explain the application process in more detail.
