Ιn November 2015, the UNESCO General Conference of States unanimously recognized Global Geoparks as the third program for the recognition of areas by the Organization (following the World Heritage Sites and Biosphere Reserves) through the International Geoscience and Geoparks Program (IGGP)

All European and Global Geoparks at that time were included in the program and were recognized as UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGp).

For an area to be recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark, it must contain sites of geological interest of international value, a status documented by the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS). Additionally, it must have a strong and effective management body, significant visibility, operate fully as a Global Geopark for at least one year, and collaborate and network with corresponding entities, organizations, and other Geoparks.

The basic operational rules and characteristics are defined through decisions and relevant documents of UNESCO, which are available on the organization’s website.

All the areas belonging to the World Network of Geoparks were included in the new Programme, including the Meteora – Pyli Geopark, which was included in September 2024.