What is JNCU？

 【National Commission for UNESCO】

 The UNESCO National Commissions are national cooperating bodies set up by the Member States for the purpose of associating their governmental and non-governmental bodies with the work of the Organization. Their basic information and rules are found in Article VII of UNESCO’s Constitution and in the Charter of National Commissions for UNESCO.

※　JNCU is not directly affiliated with UNESCO Headquarters.

【Activities of JNCU】

 JNCU acts as an advisory body to the related ministers, the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, by giving advice, conducting research, planning and proposing ideas/policies in the following UNESCO activities in line with Article VI of the “Law Concerning UNESCO Activities.”

• Selection of the representatives of the Japanese government for the General Conference of UNESCO and of the representatives of the Permanent Delegation for UNESCO in Paris.
• Submission of the agenda and proposals to General Conference
• Participation in international conferences related to UNESCO
• Conclusion of treaties and other international conventions related to UNESCO
• Planning and implementation of UNESCO activities in Japan
• Raising awareness and understanding of the objectives and activities of UNESCO among Japanese.
• Advice to and support for UNESCO activities initiated by the private sector.
• Planning basic policies about planning of law and budget about UNESCO activities.

JNCU also carries out the following operations to promote UNESCO activities in Japan.

• Formulation of basic policies for UNESCO activities in Japan
• Exchange of information and opinions and coordinate contacts with UNESCO-related institutions and groups
• Researching issues and drawing documents and materials related to UNESCO activities
• Holding meeting about UNESCO activities and distribute publications
• Dissemination of the objectives/sprit of UNESCO and its activities
• Advice to and cooperation with regional government bodies, the private sector and individuals engaged in UNESCO activities

【Organization】

 JNCU consists of 6 specialized committees, along with Steering committee and Nomination committee. The 6 specialized committees are responsible for analyzing and deliberation issues raised/proposed by or to UNESCO.

【General Assembly】

 The General Assembly of the Japanese National Commission for UNESCO is held biannually. The Steering Committee, Nomination Committee and specialized committees are called before the General Assembly. These committees report on and evaluate UNESCO activities in each specialized area, submit reports about UNESCO conferences, make proposals to UNESCO and plan UNESCO activities in Japan.

【Secretariat】

 The Secretariat of JNCU is attached to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science & Technology and is positioned under the Office of the Director-General for International Affairs. Therefore, the Director-General for International Affairs automatically serves as the Secretary-General of JNCU.