Egyptian scholar and former minister Khaled El-Enany has emerged as the sole candidate to lead UNESCO following a decisive vote by the organization's executive board in Paris. The 52-year-old Egyptology professor secured 55 out of 57 valid votes, surpassing Congolese candidate Firmin Edouard Matoko in Monday's election.
El-Enany's nomination now moves to final approval at the UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan this November. A confirmation would mark dual milestones: he would become both the first Arab leader and only the second African director-general in the organization's 80-year history.
The Helwan University professor brings three decades of academic experience and practical governance knowledge from his tenure as Egypt's Minister of Tourism and Antiquities (2017-2023). His potential leadership comes as UNESCO faces critical challenges in preserving global cultural heritage and bridging educational gaps.
Observers note El-Enany's nomination reflects growing recognition of Arab nations' contributions to global cultural diplomacy. The final decision in Uzbekistan could reshape international efforts to protect endangered historical sites and promote intercultural dialogue.
