A historic step towards safeguarding the world’s cultural and educational heritage for future generations

Paris, May 21, 2025

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, witnessed the signing of an agreement at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in Paris to digitise UNESCO’s global archive in the presence of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, and HE Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO. The USD 6 million project is funded by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA).

The signing ceremony at UNESCO’s headquarters, featured Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the SBA, signing the agreement alongside Jennifer Linkins, Assistant Director-General for Administration and Management at UNESCO. The agreement will preserve human heritage, protect international records, and ensure permanent digital access to these invaluable resources, aligning with the directives of the Sharjah Ruler. The five-year project will digitise books, manuscripts, audio recordings, documentary films, and other materials.