Because of its specificity, the SHS sector contributes to UNESCO’s role as a think-tank, a standard-setter, and an information exchange center. Four key sectors can be identified:
- « The Ethics of Science and Technology »: this sector includes the ethics of science and technology program which seeks to support the definition of an ethics framework to apply on scientific and technological research activities. This approach is founded upon UNESCO’s ideal of “true dialogue, based upon respect for commonly shared values and the dignity of each civilization and culture.” ; the World Commission on the Ethics of Science and Technology COMEST, an advisory body and forum of reflection ; the Bioethics which deals with issues related to progress in the life sciences (stem cell research, genetic testing, cloning…); the Science and Technology programme (climate change, environmental ethics, science ethics…) ; The Global Ethics Observatory (GEObs) which is a system of databases with worldwide coverage in bioethics and other areas of applied ethics in science and technology such as environmental ethics, science ethics, and technology ethics ; the Ethics Education Programme which seeks to reinforce and increase the capacities of member states in the areas of ethics education Ethics around the World, a series of conferences in collaboration with National Commissions which allows the dissemination of information on the Organization’s programs related to science and technology ethics.
- « Human Rights », this field works to promote human rights, the fight against discrimination, gender equality, poverty eradication, theEducation of children in need, Philosophy and Democracy ;
- « Social transformations » this area is composed of programs focusing on a better understanding and management of social transformations. These programs particularly focus on the promotion and development of social science research such as in theMOST program, designed to disseminate the results in social science research and to produce relevant data for policy makers and other interested parties. Madagascar is a member of this program ; International migration which seeks to promote the respect for the human rights of migrants and their integration ; urban Development which aims to increase UNESCO’s contribution to urban public policies that respect, protect, and support integration, social cohesion, and local democracy ; the Youth Program for the empowerment of young people ; strengthening National Research systems, this platform seeks to reinforce the place of research and science in social and economic development, • Greater Horn Horizon an independent and autonomous forum of intellectuals for the Horn of Africa.
- « Sport » : the Physical Education and Sport, program allows member states, NGOs, and experts to benefit from UNESCO’s assistance, expertise and advice on the conception and implementation of development programs related to sport. This process also helps the concerned parties in tackling new issues in the area of physical education and sport. Moreover, in order to protect young people and elite athletes, UNESCO actively participates in the fight against doping. This is emphasized through the International Convention against Doping in Sport, the Conference of Parties in charge of the global implementation of the Convention, the Fund for the Elimination of Doping in sport, Education resources, Research and Policy papers anda Youth Space.
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In charge at REPERMAD
Mr. Tiana RAZAFIMAHEFA
contact : tiana.razafimahefa@madagascar-unesco.com
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