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The Canadian Commission for UNESCO (CCUNESCO) was created by the Canada Council for the Arts in 1957. The CCUNESCO Secretary-General reports directly to the Council's Director and Chief Executive Officer. The permanent staff of the CCUNESCO Secretariat coordinates its networks and initiatives. Based on the recommendations it receives from various advisory committees, the Executive Committee defines CCUNESCO's strategic directions and oversees its activities. See Strategic Plan 2021-2026.

CCUNESCO supports the Permanent Delegation of Canada to UNESCO

CCUNESCO serves as a bridge between Canadians and the vital work of UNESCO. Canada is represented at UNESCO by the Permanent Delegation of Canada to UNESCO.

Global Affairs Canada is responsible for appointing the Ambassador and Permanent Delegate of Canada to UNESCO. The position is currently held by Natasha Power Cayer.

In accordance with the Canada-Quebec Agreement concerning UNESCO (signed in 2006) (PDF 24 KB), the Permanent Delegation of Canada includes a Quebec Permanent Representative who is appointed by the Government of Quebec. The position is currently held by Catherine Cano.

CCUNESCO's Executive Committee

The Executive Committee defines CCUNESCO's strategic directions and oversees its activities. It is composed of government representatives and representatives from civil society elected at the Annual General Meetings. The diversity of expertise within the Executive Committee helps increase CCUNESCO's visibility and impact.

To learn more about CCUNESCO's governance, see its Constitution and By-Laws.

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