Mr. Tim Curtis

Mr. Tim Curtis is the Director of UNESCO Regional Office for South Asia, New Delhi & UNESCO Representative to Bhutan, India, the Maldives and Sri Lanka. In this position (since 2023), he oversees UNESCO’s work across Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka.

For over 23 years, Dr Curtis has served UNESCO in the Culture Sector in various capacities. He has held the post of Chief of Section of the Living Heritage Entity and Secretary of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Before this, he held the position of Programme Specialist in the Culture sector, coordinating the implementation of Culture Sector programs and as a consultant in the intangible cultural heritage division.

His tenure contributed significantly to strengthening international cooperation and safeguarding intangible cultural heritage worldwide.

Dr. Curtis holds a PhD in Cultural Anthropology from the Research School of Pacific and Asian Studies at the Australian National University. His doctoral research explored the connection between oral history and place among the Na’hai speakers of Malakula in the Republic of Vanuatu. His academic and advocacy background continues to inform his leadership in cultural policy and heritage preservation.