A new era begins — one led from the heart of cultural heritage.

On October 6, 2025, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) elected Khaled El-Enany, Egypt’s former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, as its new Director-General. El-Enany won decisively with 55 votes against 2 for his opponent, Firmin Edouard Matoko. He will officially assume office following approval by member states at the upcoming General Conference in Uzbekistan this November.

“Culture is not only about preserving the past, but about building the future.”

— Khaled El-Enany, in his post-election address

One of Egypt’s most prominent archaeologists, El-Enany has served as a professor of archaeology at Cairo University and spearheaded several landmark heritage projects that elevated Egypt’s cultural legacy on the global stage. As minister, he led the restoration of Luxor’s “Avenue of the Sphinxes” and the international promotion of the Grand Egyptian Museum, symbolizing a new vision that connects heritage preservation with tourism-driven economic growth.

A New Chapter for UNESCO: From Crisis to Renewal

Following the U.S. withdrawal of its membership, UNESCO has been facing one of the largest budget deficits in its history. El-Enany, however, sees this not as a crisis but as “an opportunity for solidarity.”

His leadership goals include strengthening partnerships with the private sector, expanding digital education and cultural programs, and redefining cultural diplomacy among member states.

UNESCO officials note that El-Enany’s appointment marks a turning point for greater representation of African and Middle Eastern countries, whose voices are expected to become more visible under his leadership.

Cultural Heritage as a Universal Responsibility

El-Enany’s vision extends beyond the mere preservation of monuments. He emphasizes the need to rethink cultural heritage in the context of climate change, conflict, and digital transformation.

He has articulated his mission clearly: “We must protect not only stone monuments, but also languages, beliefs, rituals, and ideas — all that make up the heritage of humanity.”

Sectoral Insight

As the first Arab leader to head UNESCO, Khaled El-Enany’s appointment represents a historic milestone in equitable geographic representation within the organization.

From a cultural diplomacy standpoint, his leadership symbolizes a shift toward greater inclusion of developing nations in global decision-making — a significant step in diversifying the voices shaping the world’s shared heritage.