UNESCO: Who Owns History and Knowledge?

What happens when countries disagree over how history should be remembered and who should have access to the knowledge that shapes the future? This question sits at the center of UNESCO’s debate, where delegates are addressing two connected challenges: preserving contested historical narratives in post-conflict and post-colonial societies and restructuring the global intellectual property regime to promote equitable access to scientific knowledge and research.

Whose History Gets Remembered?

Delegates emphasized that historical preservation is especially complicated in societies affected by conflict and colonialism. China highlighted cultural treasures taken from the country during historical conflicts, arguing that nations should be able to reclaim their cultural heritage. Afghanistan similarly discussed the loss and deterioration of historical sites and artifacts following decades of conflict, calling for stronger implementation of the 1970 UNESCO Convention and increased digital preservation. Meanwhile, Vietnam stressed that preserving history can promote peace and understanding, while Mexico emphasized the importance of including different perspectives when teaching historical narratives. The debate therefore goes beyond simply preserving artifacts. It asks how societies can protect historical memory while ensuring that marginalized and previously excluded perspectives are not forgotten.

Who Gets Access to Scientific Knowledge?

The second major issue focuses on the global intellectual property system and whether scientific knowledge is equally accessible to countries at different levels of development. The United States supported open archives, scholarships, and education while also emphasizing intellectual property protections that encourage innovation. Germany similarly supported broader access to scientific knowledge alongside intellectual property rights. Rwanda called for greater technology transfer and scientific knowledge to function as a global public good, while Nigeria advocated for open science and equitable access for developing and emerging nations. These positions raise a difficult question: How can the international community protect innovation while preventing intellectual property rules from becoming barriers to scientific progress in developing countries?

One Debate, Two Connected Challenges

Although the two issues may seem different, they share a common theme: who controls knowledge. Whether it is a country’s historical narrative or access to scientific research, UNESCO delegates are debating how to protect knowledge without making it inaccessible. As committee debate continues, delegates will need to balance historical accuracy, cultural sovereignty, intellectual property, innovation, and equitable access. UNESCO's challenge is not simply preserving the past or advancing the future; it is finding a way to ensure both are accessible to the people left out of the conversation.