About UNESCO Santiago
The UNESCO Regional Office in Santiago, established in 1963, has been a key player in regional cooperation, supporting Member States in improving their education systems and promoting education as a driver of development. Over time, it has expanded its scope to include science, culture, communication, and information, aligning with UNESCO’s global objectives. Additionally, as the national representation in Chile, it participates in the Regional Collaborative Platform for Latin America and the Caribbean, contributing to the building of fairer and more sustainable societies.

Last update:20 February 2025
Our mission
The mission of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is to contribute to peace and security in the world by promoting international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication. It seeks to foster mutual respect among nations, promote human rights, cultural diversity, universal access to education, and the exchange of scientific knowledge, with the aim of building a fairer, more inclusive, and sustainable world for all.
Strategic functions
- Promoting quality education for all – providing technical support and driving educational policies that ensure universal and equitable access to quality education at all levels, particularly in vulnerable contexts.
- Encouraging science, technology, and innovation – promoting scientific research and international cooperation in science and technology to support sustainable development, as well as the ethical use of new technologies for the benefit of all humanity.
- Protecting and promoting culture – defending and safeguarding tangible, intangible, and underwater cultural heritage while promoting cultural diversity and creativity in all fields.
- Fostering communication and information – advocating for free and equitable access to information and freedom of expression, while supporting the development of media and information technologies.
- Protecting our planet – promoting education for sustainable development, fostering ocean literacy, and protecting biodiversity through biosphere reserves and geoparks.
Representation

Ms. Esther Kuisch Laroche
Director, UNESCO Regional Office in Santiago and Office for UN Coordination in Latin America and the Caribbean
+56 (2) 2472 46 32
Comunications & Knowledge management
mic
Public information and press inquiries
Tel: +56 (2) 2472 46 07
Mobiles:
+56 9 4407 49 66
+56 9 9289 01 75
Social media & Multimedia