2024 marked 75 years of Monaco’s engagement with UNESCO, the United Nations agency that promotes peace and development through international education, science, culture, and communication projects. After a year of events and celebrations, the Principality recently co-published a commemorative book paying tribute to the achievements and landmark moments of the past three-quarters of a century.

On 11th December, Monaco’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, Anne-Marie Boisbouvier, hosted a reception at her official residence to conclude the Principality’s year-long celebrations of its 75th anniversary as a member and supporter of UNESCO. The event also served as the platform for the presentation of a new commemorative book that honours Monaco’s historic milestones and cultural achievements over the past 75 years.

The publication, a collaborative effort between Monaco and UNESCO, was published by La Martinière. Following its initial unveiling to Prince Albert II of Monaco in November, it has now been made available to the public.

During the December showcase, Boisbouvier expressed gratitude to UNESCO’s Archives Service for their contributions and acknowledged photographer Cyril Bailleul, whose work enriches the book, and artist Damien Mac Donald, who provided its educational illustrations.

The event also featured remarks from the book’s authors, Jean-Philippe Vinci, Director of Monaco’s National Education, Youth, and Sports Department, and historian Stéphane Lamotte. The project was overseen by Princess Caroline of Hanover, who presided over the editorial committee.

The reception brought together more than 70 attendees, including high-ranking Monaco officials and UNESCO representatives.

Monaco and UNESCO: a 75-year relationship

Monaco officially joined UNESCO on 6th July 1949 after signing the organisation’s accession convention.

Throughout 2024, Monaco’s Permanent Delegation to UNESCO organised a series of events both within the Principality and beyond, focusing on UNESCO’s core themes of education, culture, and science.

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Anne-Marie Boisbouvier is pictured centre

Photo credit: Cyril Bailleul