The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization took a historic step on Monday, as its executive board voted overwhelmingly to appoint Khaled El-Enany, a former Egyptian antiquities and tourism minister, as its next director-general.
The decision, if ratified, will place Mr. El-Enany at the helm of the prestigious agency, making him the first leader from an Arab nation and only the second from Africa to hold the position. He is poised to succeed Audrey Azoulay of France, who is concluding her second four-year term.
The final appointment is expected to be a formality when it comes before UNESCO’s 194-member General Assembly for approval at a meeting in Uzbekistan this November.
Khaled El-Enany Wins Strong Support in UNESCO Vote
Mr. El-Enany, a 54-year-old Egyptologist, secured a commanding 55 votes from the executive board, with just two ballots cast for his rival, Édouard Firmin Matoko of the Republic of Congo.
His ascent to the organization’s leadership comes at a time of significant diplomatic strain. The United States, a key financial contributor, abstained from the vote. The American delegation has long accused UNESCO of an anti-Israel bias and, in a move that echoes a previous withdrawal during the Obama administration, announced plans in June to leave the organization by the end of 2026.
In remarks following the vote, Mr. El-Enany identified the restoration of U.S. participation as a primary objective. The American departure carries a substantial financial impact, as Washington provides approximately 8 percent of the agency’s budget through its dues.
From Egypt’s Antiquities to UNESCO Leadership: El-Enany’s Path
Khaled El-Enany brings with him a wealth of experience that aligns closely with UNESCO’s core objectives. From 2016 to 2022, he served in the Egyptian cabinet under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, first as Minister of Antiquities and later as Minister of Tourism and Antiquities following the merger of both portfolios.
During his time in office, El-Enany oversaw Egypt’s vast cultural heritage and played a key role in managing the tourism sector, a cornerstone of the country’s economy. His direct involvement in heritage preservation and cultural promotion is seen as a strong foundation for leading an organization devoted to similar global missions.
Supporters say his combination of administrative expertise and diplomatic reach across Africa and the Arab world positions him well to handle the complex political dynamics surrounding the Paris-based agency. His selection is also viewed as a move to enhance UNESCO’s engagement with the Global South.
If confirmed in November, El-Enany’s appointment would mark a significant milestone — not only symbolizing broader representation in UNESCO’s leadership but also highlighting the agency’s ongoing challenges in global diplomacy and funding.
