Historical studies and UNESCO: from local to transnational

Abstract

The discipline of history is never static. With the passage of time, it progresses. The earlier emphasis on study of localities, regions and national states has been replaced by study of global history. Study of history sans boundary is appropriate in the age of globalization. The present paper would delineate and analyze the role of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in bringing out history of humankind as a whole. The 'History of Humanity' project, Journal of World History, international conferences, conservation of world heritage sites and research support to academics are means by which the UNESCO has been promoting transnational history. Study of history is meaningful if it takes humankind away from conflict and moves toward cooperation. In its history of more than six decades, the UNESCO had strived for international cooperation and in the process had done commendable work. Is mega Projects pertaining to history and culture had transcended the national barriers and humankind had been benefited immensely. Writing history from global perspective and perceiving cultural sites dotted round the globe as heritage of humankind have been lasting contribution of the UNESCO. The Organization has been criticized on various issues, but the fact remains that without the UNESCO, historical and cultural heritage of humankind would have witnessed great loss.