Why are people losing trust in UNESCO?

JUN 22 2026 · 18:01

Why are people losing trust in UNESCO? It could be because of this… UNESCO says “we are convinced that engaging young people in decisions that affect them is not just a matter of right, it’s a matter of principle”. Yet for nearly two years our efforts to inform them of the risks facing one of their own World Heritage sites, has been met with silence. The most we’ve heard is this, an - accidental - email from @sif_seychelles (@unesco’s local partner in Seychelles) saying “UNESCO will not entertain them”. What does that say about UNESCO? What is the point of the institution if they don’t actually help to protect the places they claim to care about? Scientists, conservationists, local citizens and youth advocates have repeatedly called for stronger action to protect this irreplaceable World Heritage Site. We’ve written, campaigned, gathered evidence and asked questions. Still, no meaningful engagement. David Attenborough called Aldabra Atoll “one of the world’s greatest surviving natural treasures”. We agree. Aldabra deserves better. World Heritage deserves better. UNESCO, your silence speaks volumes. Join us in saving Aldabra, before it’s too late. TAKE ACTION: http://tinyurl.com/foanow Let’s keep the pressure on with @chilli.app. Click the link in our bio to put pressure on UNESCO or if you’re on IOS, screenshot the link above and just tap the link when it pops up. Illustrated map: @bethwalrond Photography: @evileyelander @celinaxchien #ProtectAldabra #UNESCO #ProtectAssomption #YouthVoices #Seychelles