2nd aspect of the terms of reference of CR : examination of the communications relating to cases and questions concerning the exercise of human rights in UNESCO’s fields of competence
Under Article I, paragraph 1,of its Constitution, adopted on 16 November 1945, UNESCO’s purpose is to contribute to peace and security by promoting collaboration among the nations through education, science and culture in order to further universal respect for justice, for the rule of law and for the human rights and fundamental freedoms which are affirmed for the peoples of the world, without distinction of race, sex, language or religion, by the Charter of the United Nations.
Accordingly, in 1978 the Executive Board of UNESCO laid down a confidential procedure for the examination of complaints (called communications) received by the Organization concerning alleged violations of human rights in its fields of competence, namely education, science, culture and communication. This procedure is set out in 104 EX/Decision 3.3 of the Executive Board. It is implemented by a subsidiary organ of the Executive Board, the Committee on Conventions and Recommendations.
