Plekhanov Russian University of Economics Hosts Fifth All-Russian Congress of UNESCO Chairs

Plekhanov Russian University of Economics hosted the Fifth All-Russian Congress of UNESCO Chairs, bringing together representatives of leading universities from Russia and abroad. The event focused on exchanging experiences in solving global problems of humanity and implementing the UN Sustainable Development Goals through the combined efforts of domestic and foreign scientists.

Ivan Lobanov opened the Congress by noting that Plekhanov Russian University of Economics traditionally maintains close cooperation with the network of UNESCO Chairs as an important participant in international educational initiatives and scientific projects aimed at the sustainable development of society.

During his opening address, Dr. Lobanov acknowledged the enormous role of the Russian Foreign Ministry, the Russian Federation Commission for UNESCO, and the personal efforts of key officials in countering challenges facing Russia during turbulent times. He emphasized how systematic work allows for the neutralization of attempts by unfriendly countries to limit opportunities and weaken Russia’s position in humanitarian and social cooperation within UNESCO activities.

Dr. Lobanov explained that throughout the years of the UNITWIN program, UNESCO Chairs have accumulated best practices and expert knowledge, ensuring unique research of universal significance. The network provides opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships and joint project implementation, overcoming the borders of states and cultures while addressing global humanitarian problems.

Vice-Rector Dr. Svetlana Malkarova, who serves as Director of Plekhanov University in Dubai and Head of the UNESCO Department, presented the department’s activities. The work is carried out at the main university in Moscow and its branch campus in the United Arab Emirates, allowing for the involvement of experts from Canada, Great Britain, and Egypt in joint activities.

Since 2019, the UNESCO Chair “Societal, Legal and Ethical Frameworking of Knowledge Societies” has operated at Plekhanov Russian University of Economics. The department implements scientific and educational projects, participates in international conferences, and conducts analytical research on topics including socio-ethical challenges of digitalization, the introduction of artificial intelligence in education, and digital segregation in educational access.

In February 2025, UNESCO approved the creation of a second department at Plekhanov Russian University of Economics: “Socio-Economic Models of Biosphere Reserves.” This unique program will create and regulate bioeconomic reserves and serve as a model for biosphere reserves in other countries.

The establishment of two UNESCO Chairs and the successful hosting of this prestigious Congress reinforce Plekhanov Russian University of Economics’ commitment to international academic collaboration and sustainable development research. The international campus structure provides a strategic foundation for expanding global partnerships and implementing the ambitious research agenda outlined during the Congress, particularly in artificial intelligence education and biosphere conservation initiatives that will serve as models for international implementation.