This unique collection is being published on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the human rights procedure adopted in 1978 by the UNESCO Executive Board and also on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It provides an overview of the UNESCO procedure for the examination of communications alleging violations of human rights in UNESCO’s fields of competence - education, science, culture, communication and information. For the first time since the establishment of this procedure, all cases submitted to the Committee on Conventions and Recommendations from 1978 to 1988 which have been considered by the Committee, a total of more 350 cases concerning 60 States altogether, are being made public. The Committee operates under a procedure that stipulates confidentiality for 20 years. The cases are presented in chronological order and each includes a summary of facts as well as the Committee's discussion and decision. Tables of cases and statistics are included.
This book is designed for all those who are concerned about and interested in human rights primarily. It will be a useful and practical tool for students, law professors, academics, human rights experts and human rights activists, and will be accessible to the general public involved in human rights and humanitarian affairs. It aims to provide the reader with a better understanding of UNESCO’s role in the protection of human rights through discreet action and consultation.