Egypt bids for UNESCO leadership: Gabon endorses Khaled El-Enany

Khaled El-Enany, Egypt's candidate for the position of Director-General of UNESCO, has secured the backing of Gabon following a diplomatic visit to Libreville alongside Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty.

This endorsement strengthens El-Enany’s campaign as he vies for the leadership of the global cultural and educational organization.

Supported by key international players, including France, Brazil, the African Union, and the Arab League, El-Enany’s candidacy underscores Egypt’s ambition to play a pivotal role in shaping UNESCO’s future. The upcoming elections, slated for late 2025, are expected to be highly competitive, with candidates from diverse nations seeking to lead the organization.

Egypt’s historical ties with UNESCO form a cornerstone of its campaign. As a founding member of the organization, Egypt is home to some of the world’s most iconic cultural heritage sites, such as the Pyramids of Giza and the temples of Luxor and Abu Simbel. This rich legacy positions Cairo as a natural advocate for cultural preservation and global educational collaboration.

El-Enany, a former Minister of Antiquities and a prominent figure in the field of cultural heritage, has been at the forefront of Egypt’s efforts to protect and promote its ancient treasures. His nomination reflects a commitment to leveraging Egypt’s storied past to influence UNESCO’s mission and priorities in the years ahead.

With growing support from African and Arab nations, as well as key international allies, El-Enany’s candidacy is poised to resonate on the global stage. However, the 2025 elections promise a challenging race, as UNESCO continues to navigate its role in addressing pressing global issues, including cultural preservation, education for all, and international cooperation in an era of rapid change.