UNESCO Obiang Prize suspended
The 58 members of UNESCO’s Executive Board have agreed to suspend the implementation of the UNESCO-Obiang Nguema Mbasogo International Prize for Research in the Life Sciences and continue consultations among all parties concerned, in a spirit of mutual respect and until a consensus is reached.
“I take note of this decision by our Member States, which has been reached by consensus and with respect and dignity towards all concerned parties,” said UNESCO Director-General Irina Bokova.
The UNESCO-Obiang prize was established by UNESCO’s Executive Board in September 2008 to reward projects and activities of individuals, institutions, other entities or non-governmental organizations for scientific research in the life sciences leading to improving the quality of human life. Its proposed annual award consisted of a medal, a diploma and a sum of $300,000 which may be divided equally between three laureates.
At its June 2010 meeting the awarding of the prize was delayed by the Executive Board in order to allow ongoing consultations with all concerned parties regarding the future of the prize.
UNESCO’s Executive Board meets twice a year to oversee the implementation of the programme adopted by the General Conference. The Board is responsible for the establishment and management of all UNESCO prizes.
The 185th session of the Board opened on 5 October and closed on 21 October.
Written: 22/10/2010 , last modified: 22/10/2010
UNESCO's Executive Board