One of the basic aims of UNESCO since its foundation was to promote the equal value and rights of all human beings. UNESCO has contributed immensely in the development and the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, which was directly recognized by the General Assembly of the member-states of the Organization. All UNESCO Programmes are aligned with Human Rights and aim to examine economic, social and political aspects of rights, recognizing at the same time that rights are interdependent and interrelated.
UNESCO undertakes the production and distribution of informational material, the design of human rights educational programmes and activities, the provision of consultancy services and capacity building to member-states and the investigation of obstacles posed against the implementation of human rights. It also attempts to develop valid and objective systems of evaluation of the implementation of human rights worldwide.
UNESCO has also established three Prizes, awarded to people or bodies who contribute to the promotion of a culture of Human Rights, to the promotion of Tolerance and non-Violence and to Peace Education. At the same time UNESCO is the sole institution of the UN responsible to promote the right of freedom of expression, as well as the freedoms of the press and information.
The Cyprus National Commission for UNESCO promotes and supports initiatives that promote human rights. Among other activities, it aims to raise awareness about human rights and promote respect among young people and students of the ASPnet schools in Cyprus. Moreover, it collaborates with the two UNESCO Chairs in Cyprus on issues relating to cultural rights and gender equality.