Mexico, a founder member of UNESCO, has always shared and defended its values
An Important Milestone in My Candidacy for Director-General of UNESCO. The Mexican government, represented by five ministries responsible for education, diplomacy, environment, culture, and science, formally presented my candidacy for Director-General of UNESCO. The event brought together the diplomatic corps accredited in Mexico, as well as intellectuals, business leaders, university deans, and members of civil society.
Mexico, as a founding member of UNESCO, has consistently shared and defended the organization’s core values. Today, as the world faces profound cultural, social, climate, demographic, and technological transformations, it is more important than ever to reaffirm UNESCO’s role as the most humanist organization and the moral compass that we urgently need. As President Sheinbaum’s candidate, my vision is closely aligned with her priorities:
Providing quality education and promoting critical thinking for all;
Advancing culture as a driver of development and protecting indigenous languages;
Safeguarding the environment and natural heritage;
Promoting gender equality and fostering strong international cooperation; and
Ensuring that science and innovation guide public decision-making.
My commitment to UNESCO is built on three core pillars: Inclusion — to ensure that no child is left without access to education and that cultural diversity continues to thrive. Innovation — by investing in science and technology, defending freedom of knowledge, and promoting ethical standards for artificial intelligence. Impact — by delivering tangible results that improve lives, reduce inequalities, and advance social justice.
This is not a time for transactional approaches. It is a time to choose leadership and merit that can strengthen UNESCO, making it a more agile institution capable of addressing today’s challenges and inspiring hope for the future.
I am honoured to represent Mexico and for the unwavering support of an extraordinary team, as well as the member states and communities committed to building a better future together. I would also like to extend my deepest appreciation to the government leaders who participated in the presentation of my candidacy:
Mario Delgado, Secretary of Public Education
Enrique Ochoa, Undersecretary for Multilateral Affairs and Human Rights
Dr. Marina Robles García, Undersecretary for Environmental Policy and Natural Resources
Dr. Lucina Jiménez López, Director General of Cultural Management and Training
Dr. Rosaura Ruiz Gutiérrez, Secretary of Science, Humanities, Technology, and Innovation
Together, we reaffirm our shared commitment to advancing UNESCO’s mission and the values that unite us all.
