One of 17 inter-governmental organisations of the United Nations, UNESCO was established by inter-governmental agreement in 1946. In the cultural field it aims to encourage governments to acknowledge the cultural dimension of development, to affirm and enrich cultural identities, to broaden participation in cultural life and to promote international co-operation. In October 2003 it had 190 Member States. UNESCO’s its programmes revolve around a wide range of themes, including world heritage, tangible heritage, intangible heritage, cultural diversity, normative action, intercultural dialogue, culture and development, cultural industries, arts and creativity, copyright, museums and cultural tourism. UNESCO’s principal functions are prospective studies, advancement, transfer and sharing of knowledge, standard-setting actions, expertise and exchange of specialised information implemented within five action areas: education, natural sciences, social and human sciences, communication and information. UNESCO plays an integral role in the UN system and works closely with a wide range of regional and national organisations. UNESCO is the only UN agency to have a system of National Commissions in all Member and Associate States. The NACs of UNESCO are composed of eminent members of the intellectual and scientific communities in each country and form the essential link between those communities and UNESCO, helping Member States to take maximum advantage of their adhesion to the organisation. The NACs form a vital link between civil society and the Organisation. They provide valuable insight concerning the organisation’s programme and help implement many initiatives, including training programmes, studies, public awareness campaigns and media outreach. The Commissions also develop new partnerships with the private sector, which can provide valuable technical expertise and financial resources. Some 330 non-governmental organisations (NGOs) maintain official relations with UNESCO and hundreds more work with the organisation on specific projects.