Social and Human Sciences - Fit for Life Photo Contest - photo by Billy James Dega

Social & Human Sciences

Building inclusive and sustainable economies and societies

In a complex world confronted with major societal transitions (climate, digital, demographics, inequalities), UNESCO’s Social and Human Sciences Sector leverages the contributions that these sciences can make to build inclusive and sustainable economies and societies.

This is done through the management of social transformations and strengthening the science-policy nexus, the ethical governance of emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, neurotechnology and climate engineering, and by fostering trust in science and the safety of scientists. The Sector also addresses racism and discrimination, forges intercultural dialogue, empowers youth and women, and deploys the ethical and social impact of sports. 

Policy Dialogue on AI Governance, 28 June 2024, UNESCO Paris

For the very first time, UNESCO brings together a newly established platform of top international AI experts for the Policy Dialogue on AI Governance to discuss real-world solutions for a more ethical AI ecosystem. Join us on 28 June 2024 at UNESCO in Paris, Room IX, and online.  

Our priorities

Ethics of Artificial Intelligence
Fight against Racism & Discrimination

Fostering Inclusion, Rights and Dialogue

Discover

New Programme on the Freedom and Safety of Scientists

Science thrives in an open and safe ecosystem that encourages the generation and free flow of ideas.

#WeNeedToTalk

Measuring intercultural dialogue to support peacefulness, conflict prevention and human rights

The Policy Nerd Podcast Channel

Inclusive Policy Lab podcasts on data & policy solutions resetting us along a more equitable and smarter path

The Silk Roads Programme

seeks to better understand the rich history and shared legacy of the historic Silk Roads

Youth_community

Relevant Publications

Empowering women for the good of society: gender-based resilience
Squicciarini, Mariagrazia
UNESCO
Sarlat , Garance
Manca, Anna Rita
2023
UNESCO
0000387885
The risks and challenges of neurotechnologies for human rights
UNESCO
University of Milan-Bicocca (Italy)
State University of New York. Downstate Health Sciences University
2023
UNESCO
0000384185
The safety of scientific researchers: data, trends and a typology of threats
Gerards, Janneke
UNESCO
Schattevoet, Niels
2024
0000389907
Silk Roads Youth Research Grant. Silk Roads Papers, 1st Edition
UNESCO
2024
0000389776
Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence
UNESCO
2022
UNESCO
0000381137