The 41st General Conference of UNESCO began in Paris on November 9 and will continue until November 24, 2021. Participant countries announced their national declarations during general policy debate sessions organized as a part of the conference between November 10 and 15.

Minister of National Education Mahmut Özer announced Turkey's national declaration with a video message during this morning's session.

Stressing that education was among the sectors that was affected most by the pandemic, Özer said, "We have prioritized using the most modern methods in an effort to prevent shortcomings in the education process of our students. We managed to provide distance education in all schools and grades. As of this term, we started full time face-to-face education and we are determined to keep schools open."

Özer asked the support of other countries for Turkey's membership candidacy to the UNESCO Execution Board during the declaration.