Weihnachtsgrußwort

Grußwort der UNESCO-Generaldirektorin, Irina Bokova

 

15 December 2011

 

Cultural diversity is a reality for many societies today. Making the most of cultural diversity must also be a policy, one that unfolds within a framework of democracy and pluralism to lay the foundations for greater tolerance, dialogue and cooperation. UNESCO works with societies to address these tasks. We set standards and support policies to safeguard cultural heritage and the diversity of cultural expressions across the world. Cultural diversity can be a powerful force for peace and development – but this requires work and commitment.

 

Cultural literacy is a lifeline in our increasingly complex societies. This is why the volunteer programme, »kulturweit«, is so important. This programme of the National Commission of Germany to UNESCO and the Federal Foreign Office provides intercultural experiences to young people from Germany in over 50 countries. Some 400 volunteers benefit from this opportunity every year. This experience gives each of them a chance to tackle the tough questions posed today by a globalizing world. It teaches them new skills of dialogue and exchange. More than anything, it opens up a new world of discovery that empowers each of them.

 

A more peaceful and sustainable future will be built on precisely such experiences. I wish to thank the National Commission of Germany to UNESCO and the Federal Foreign Office for this initiative. I thank especially each of the volunteers for their spirit, commitment and courage. I am convinced these are the foundations for a better world.

 

 

Irina Bokova

Director-General of UNESCO