Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.
INTERVIEW Egypt’s candidate for UNESCO director-general pledges renewal through unity and innovation
Khaled El-Enany, Egypt’s former minister of Tourism and Antiquities and candidate for UNESCO director-general for the 2025–29 term, speaks during an interview with The Korea Times at the Embassy of Egypt in Seoul, Friday. Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk
By Kim Hyun-bin
Khaled El-Enany, Egypt’s former minister of Tourism and Antiquities and a leading contender for UNESCO director-general for the 2025–2029 term, has unveiled an ambitious agenda to reinvigorate the global cultural and scientific organization.
His campaign pivots on fostering international unity, aggressively advancing cultural diplomacy and integrating innovative approaches into the agency's core mission.
In an interview with The Korea Times during his visit to Seoul on Friday, El-Enany underscored his career in education, culture and heritage — areas central to UNESCO’s mandate.
“I’ve dedicated my entire career to UNESCO’s fields of competence,” he said. “Since 1993, I’ve taught at the university level, conducted research, managed museums and led cultural institutions. Working across cultures, especially in tourism, has given me first-hand experience in international collaboration.”
If elected, El-Enany said his first priority would be to rebuild consensus among UNESCO’s member states and reduce political polarization.
“UNESCO must remain a neutral platform,” he said. “Every member state should feel ownership of this organization — where impartiality, inclusion and mutual respect prevail.”
Another pillar of his vision is strengthening UNESCO’s financial foundations.
El-Enany emphasized the need to expand and diversify funding streams by building partnerships with multilateral donors, philanthropic organizations, the private sector and national governments. He also pointed to innovative financing tools such as social impact bonds and debt-for-development swaps.
His next priority is reinforcing UNESCO’s soft power by enhancing its global role in education, science, culture and media.
“These are tools of diplomacy that help advance peace and foster intercultural understanding,” he said, adding that the organization must also expand its role in crisis response and post-conflict recovery.
“Whether facing wars, natural disasters or pandemics, UNESCO must be proactive — rebuilding schools, restoring cultural institutions and preserving heritage.”
Suncheonman Bay is one of the sites featured in "Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats," a serial natural heritage area listed on UNESCO’s Natural World Heritage list. Courtesy of Cultural Heritage Administration
Regarding the critical issue of heritage protection, El-Enany advocated for a holistic approach that gives equal importance to both tangible and intangible cultural assets.
Drawing on UNESCO’s foundational 1972 Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage and the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, he called for expanded cross-border nominations. Additionally, he proposed streamlining existing procedures to better assist underrepresented nations in preserving their unique heritage.
“Culture isn’t just about conservation — it’s a driver of sustainable development,” he said.
El-Enany also commended Korea’s active engagement with UNESCO, noting its 16 World Heritage Sites and 20 elements of intangible cultural heritage.
“Korea is one of UNESCO’s strongest contributors,” he said. “Your leadership in education, science and culture is globally recognized.”
Regarding equitable representation, particularly for countries in the Global South, El-Enany pledged inclusive and transparent leadership.
“I will maintain an open-door policy,” he said. “All member states are equal and leadership positions will reflect geographic, gender and generational diversity while upholding merit.”
Rebuilding trust among member states, he stressed, would be foundational to his approach. “In my first 100 days, I ill meet with every member state to listen and learn. My campaign was inclusive, and my leadership will follow the same principle. UNESCO must transcend borders, divisions and ideologies.”
In addressing heritage protection in conflict zones, El-Enany outlined a three-phase strategy: prevention, intervention and reconstruction. He emphasized, “UNESCO must be present during crises — supporting education, cultural institutions and independent media — and assist in rebuilding efforts afterward.”
He also emphasized adapting to the digital age, urging UNESCO to help bridge the digital divide and guide global policies in emerging technologies like AI, quantum computing and synthetic biology.
“Technology must serve humanity. UNESCO should provide ethical frameworks and promote the digital transformation of education, as well as use AI to protect heritage and fight disinformation.”
Climate change, he noted, is another pressing concern. “We must empower vulnerable communities, incorporate indigenous knowledge and enhance global cooperation on disaster preparedness,” he said, warning of the growing risks to both cultural and natural heritage.
El-Enany also reaffirmed his belief in the power of cultural diplomacy.
“It is one of UNESCO’s founding principles. Culture — through literature, music, museums and education — unites people. We must teach the next generation to learn from history, not repeat it.”