Who We Are
UAN-ESCO, the United Ancient Indigenous Enlightened Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, is a sacred trust dedicated to preserving our shared planetary wisdom through the revitalization of ancestral knowledge systems, Earth-honoring sciences, cultural continuity, and intercultural dialogue.
We codify Original Instructions, develop regenerative tools, and transmit intergenerational knowledge to address humanity's existential crises, nurturing a world of balance and sacred reciprocity.
Protecting biocultural diversity, guiding ethical technology through Indigenous wisdom, advancing land-based learning, safeguarding living heritage, and ensuring the transmission of traditional ecological knowledge are central to UAN-ESCO's work with its 160+ sovereign Indigenous nations and aligned partners worldwide.
UAN-ESCO Constitution
"Innovation without wisdom becomes destruction. Wisdom without innovation becomes stagnation. Together, they create transformation."
Our Expertise
Transforming lives through education
We promote quality education and lifelong learning for all to build a better future
Furthering science for sustainability
We support scientific cooperation to enhance sustainability and support public policies.
Building fairer and inclusive societies
We strengthen social policies and advocate for emerging technologies to benefit all.
Protecting our heritage and fostering creativity
We promote and safeguard culture to build resilient communities.
Promoting freedom of expression and access to quality information
We support information literacy, protection of journalists and stronger digital governance.
Protecting the health of our shared ocean for future generations
We foster international cooperation in marine sciences to improve ocean management.
Supporting Africa's development
Through Priority Africa, we emphasize education, culture, and innovation to empower African societies and foster resilience.
Empowering through equality
Through Priority Gender Equality, we aim to empower both women and men through education, inclusion, and equal opportunities.
Our values
Enriching Humanity
Our traditional knowledge systems represent millennia of accumulated wisdom about sustainable living, ecological balance, and community harmony. These systems provide the foundation for holistic education that honors both Earth and humanity.
Our Actions Worldwide
Explore all the projects we carry out around the world through our interactive map.
UAN-ESCO Governance
UAN-ESCO is led by three key bodies: the General Conference, the Secretariat and the Executive Board.
The General Conference, with representatives from all Indigenous Member Nations, determines UANESCO's main lines of work. The Secretariat executes the Organization's programme under the authority of the Director-General. The Executive Board monitors the implementation of the Organization's programme.
Together, these bodies drive UNESCO’s efforts in education, science, culture, and communication.