Race for UNESCO Leadership Amid Financial Turmoil

Khaled el-Enany, an Egyptian antiquities professor, and Firmin Édouard Matoko, a Congolese economist, vie to become director-general of UNESCO. The winner will face budget shortfalls due to the US withdrawal. Both candidates pledge reforms, with el-Enany focusing on cultural programs and Matoko on technical solutions.

Devdiscourse News Desk | Paris | Updated: 06-10-2025 11:20 IST | Created: 06-10-2025 11:20 IST

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An Egyptian antiquities professor and former tourism minister is competing against a Congolese economist, known for advocating education in refugee camps, in the race to lead UNESCO.

The successor will face significant challenges, including the aftermath of the US's recent withdrawal, which foreshadows a major budget deficit at an organization recognized for its World Heritage Sites.

UNESCO's executive board is set to vote soon, recommending either Khaled el-Enany or Firmin Édouard Matoko for director-general, with the decision finalized at the general assembly next month. Both candidates bring unique experiences and reform plans to address the agency's persistent issues.