OMEP admitted to UNESCO Associate Status
On 20 October 2026, UNESCO’s Executive Board, at its 225th session and on the recommendation of the Director-General, decided to admit the World Organization for Early Childhood Education (OMEP) to associate status. The partnership is established for a renewable period of eight years.
Associate status is the highest level of official partnership UNESCO offers non-governmental organizations. It is reserved for international organizations with proven expertise and a record of regular, major contributions to UNESCO’s work. Until now, OMEP held consultative status. In its letter to OMEP, UNESCO said the decision reflects a longstanding history of collaboration between the two organizations and a shared commitment to common goals.
What this means
Associate status brings OMEP closer to UNESCO’s work:
- OMEP can send observers to UNESCO’s General Conference as a right and speak there on issues concerning young children.
- OMEP and UNESCO can sign a long-term framework agreement setting joint priorities.
- OMEP can take part in the NGO-UNESCO Liaison Committee, where seats are reserved for organizations with associate status.
- OMEP will be more closely involved in planning UNESCO’s programmes.
The status also brings responsibilities: close and regular cooperation with UNESCO and coordination with the National Commissions for UNESCO in the countries where OMEP is active.
A shared achievement
“This is a historic moment for OMEP and for everyone who works for the rights of young children,” said OMEP World President Adrijana Višnjić-Jevtić.
“It was earned both at UNESCO, through the dedicated work of our representatives, our Past President and the Executive Committee, and in communities around the world, through the work of our National Committees. It shows what OMEP is: a global network whose strength comes from the contribution of each of its members.”
The decision announced at the Executive Board meeting can be watched here: