• The advancement, transfer and sharing of knowledge: relying primarily on research, training and teaching activities.
• Prospective Studies: what forms of education, science, culture and communication for tomorrow's world?
• Standard-setting action: the preparation and adoption of international instruments and statutory recommendations.
• Expertise: provided to Member States for their development policies and projects in the form of "technical co-operation".
• Exchange of specialized information.

188 nations

In practice, decisions are taken by consensus.

According to the UNESCO website, "The Medium-Term Strategy for 2002-2007 (31 C/4), along with the Programme and Budget for 2004-2005 (32 C5), presents the programme base for UNESCO activities as approved by UNESCO's General Conference at its 32nd session, held in October-November 2003."

Aspects of its "Strategic objective 10" include:

• Promoting the free flow of ideas and universal access to information
• Promoting freedom of expression, freedom of the press, pluralism and independence of the media
• Fostering the application of human rights and fundamental freedoms in cyberspace
• Promoting and extending the public domain of information
• Setting up a UNESCO knowledge portal

Aspects of its "Strategic objective 11" include:

• Promoting the expression of pluralism and cultural diversity in the media and world information networks
• Encouraging the production and dissemination of audiovisual programmes
• Promoting the diversity of content in information networks

Aspects of its "Strategic objective 12" include:

• Access for all to information and communication technologies, especially in the public domain
• Formulating integrated regional and national policies and strategies for communication, information and informatics
• Promoting access to information and means of communication