In a strategic move that underscores Egypt’s global cultural ambitions, Khaled El-Enany has emerged as the nation’s latest candidate for the prestigious UNESCO Director-General position, positioning himself as a formidable contender in the 2025-2029 leadership race.
“Khaled El Enany” by Reem Akef, Wikimedia Commons is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
El-Enany brings a wealth of experience to his candidacy, having served as Minister of Tourism and Antiquities and garnering significant diplomatic support. His nomination represents Egypt’s continued commitment to international cultural representation, following previous unsuccessful attempts by notable figures like Farouk Hosni and Moushira Khattab.
But the race for the UNESCO presidency is not usually a smooth one. It was, in fact, at times so fierce that it narrowly avoided shocking revelations and diplomatic incidents. A prime example are the 2009 elections, when the competition raged between Algerian Mohamed Bedjaoui, former judge at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, and candidate Farouk Hosni, supported by Hosni Mubarak. Through his friendship with the king, Bedjaoui was nominated as Cambodia’s candidate rather than Algeria’s. This sparked considerable irritation in the Arab world struggling to unite behind a single candidacy and stealing the spotlight from Egypt.
“Farouk Hosni وزير الثقافة فاروق حسني” by Hossam el-Hamalawy, Flickr is licensed under CC BY 2.0
The nomination of Mohammed Bedjaoui as Cambodia’s candidate for an unspecified position sparked controversy and criticism across the Arab world, particularly in Algeria. Abdelaziz Belkhadem, who succeeded Bedjaoui as Algeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister in 2007, publicly criticized his decision to accept the candidacy, especially since Algeria was supporting Egypt’s Faruk Hosni for the same role. Belkhadem hinted at knowing Bedjaoui’s motivations for the move but refrained from revealing them to the media, hence leaving room for speculations. In response to the resulting tension, Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika and Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi made a swift diplomatic visit to Egypt to placate President Hosni Mubarak’s anger over Bedjaoui’s candidacy.
Today as much as back then, a candidacy is more than a personal achievement; it is also a national strategy to amplify a country’s soft power on the global stage – in El-Enany’s case, Egypt’s influence in the playfield. With a civilization spanning thousands of years and numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, Egypt presents a compelling narrative of cultural preservation and historical significance.
French diplomatic circles have already signaled support for El-Enany, with French Minister Jean-Noël Barrot publicly endorsing the Egyptian candidate. The Arab League has also rallied behind him, demonstrating regional solidarity in this international leadership contest.
However, the path forward is not lacking challenges. Recent controversies surrounding heritage preservation in Cairo, including contested demolitions in the historic City of the Dead, have raised questions about Egypt’s commitment to cultural conservation. These are some of the issues that could potentially complicate El-Enany’s bid, urging Egypt to consider a more careful diplomatic navigation.
“Egypt-13A-085 – City of the Dead” by Dennis Jarvis, Flickr is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Still, El-Enany’s academic and professional credentials provide a strong foundation for his campaign. His honorary doctorate from Paul Valery University and recognition as a UN World Tourism Organization Ambassador of Cultural Tourism strengthen his international profile.
The UNESCO leadership represents more than a bureaucratic position. It’s an opportunity to shape global cultural policy, protect world heritage, and promote intercultural dialogue. For Egypt, this is a chance to reassert its historical and cultural prominence on the world stage.
As the November 2025 election approaches, El-Enany and his supporters are working diligently to build a compelling case. The candidacy is a delicate balance of showcasing Egypt’s rich heritage while addressing contemporary challenges in cultural preservation.
The international community watches closely, with the outcome promising to be a significant moment in global cultural diplomacy.
Also published on Medium.
