United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)

Since its creation in 1945 following World War II, UNESCO, a specialized United Nations agency, has been concerned with providing internationally coordinated support for communities directly faced with some of the world's most pressing contemporary issues. Within its broader programs of education, science, culture, communication and information, UNESCO focuses on a variety of narrower themes, including climate change, HIV and AIDS, Indigenous peoples, and gender equality. Its programs are designed to support and achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which was adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations in 2015. Originally founded by 37 countries, UNESCO now claims 195 members.