The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that was established in 1945. The organization is headquartered in Paris, France, and has 195 member states. UNESCO’s mission is to promote international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication. The organization works to advance access to education, support scientific research and innovation, safeguard cultural heritage, promote freedom of expression, and foster dialogue between cultures. UNESCO also works to protect the world’s natural and cultural heritage sites, including through its World Heritage program. UNESCO is known for its efforts to promote literacy and access to education, particularly for girls and women, and for its work to promote intercultural dialogue and cooperation to build peace and understanding among people of different cultures and backgrounds.