Samarkand, Uzbekistan – Côte d'Ivoire consolidated its position on the international stage by being elected to two major intergovernmental bodies of UNESCO on Monday, November 10, 2025, during the 43rd session of the General Conference, which is being held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

These elections, for a four-year term (2025-2029), are a shining recognition of the country's continued commitment to culture, dialogue of civilizations and sustainable social development .

The Two Key Organs

Ivory Coast will now be a member of:

1. The Intergovernmental Committee for Promoting the Return of Cultural Property to its Countries of Origin or its Restitution in Cases of Illicit Appropriation (PRBC)
2. Mission: Established in 1978, the PRBC promotes dialogue and cooperation (bilateral and multilateral) between States to resolve disputes related to the illicit transfer of cultural property. It promotes mediation and raises awareness of the value of heritage as an essential element of identity, memory, and social cohesion.
3. The Intergovernmental Council of the Social Transformation Management Programme (MOST)
4. Mission: Launched in 1994, the MOST program aims to strengthen the link between social science research and public policy development. It helps states design inclusive, evidence-based policies, with a focus on reducing inequalities, participatory governance, environmental challenges, and digital transformations.

Ivorian Diplomacy Praised

The election to these two bodies attests to the growing preeminence of Ivorian diplomacy within UNESCO. This success is spearheaded by Her Excellency Ms. Ramata Bakayoko-Ly , Ambassador and Permanent Delegate of Côte d'Ivoire to the Organization.

This dual appointment is directly in line with the vision of the President of the Republic, His Excellency Mr. Alassane Ouattara , who advocates responsible cultural governance and active participation of Côte d'Ivoire in major international discussions on contemporary social transformations.