The United Nations (UN’s) World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, or World Day for Cultural Diversity, is annually observed on May 21 worldwide to highlight the importance of cultural diversity, intercultural dialogue, and sustainable development.
- The day of celebration is annually led by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), which is based in Paris (France).
Background:
i.In November 2001, UNESCO adopted the Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity, recognizing cultural diversity as the “common heritage of humanity” and highlighting its role in development.
ii.On December 20, 2002, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) passed Resolution A/RES/57/249, proclaiming May 21 as the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development.
iii.The first World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development observance took place on May 21, 2003.
Culture and Sustainable Development:
i.In 2015, the UNGA’s Second Committee adopted resolution A/C.2/70/L.59, formally acknowledging culture’s critical role in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
ii.On October 20, 2005, UNESCO adopted the Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, aiming to:
- Building sustainable governance systems for culture.
- Ensuring balanced global exchange of cultural goods and services.
- Enhancing mobility for artists and cultural professionals.
- Integrating culture into development frameworks.
- Protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Global Impact and Economic Contributions
i.89% of global conflicts occur in countries with low intercultural dialogue, underscoring the urgency to prioritize cultural cooperation.
ii.The cultural and creative sector supports 48 million jobs worldwide (6.2% of global employment), contributing 3.1% to global Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
iii.Women hold nearly half (50%) of these jobs, and the sector is the largest employer of youth under 30 years.
MONDIACULT 2022 and the Declaration for Culture:
In September 2022, representatives from 150 nations convened in Mexico City (Mexico) for MONDIACULT 2022, the largest global cultural conference in 40 years. The outcome was the historic Declaration for Culture, which:
- Declared culture a “global public good”.
- Called for its inclusion as a standalone goal in the post-2030 development agenda.
- Highlighted cultural rights as essential for equitable progress.
Keyfacts:
i.According to UNESCO, 89% of current global conflicts occur in countries with low capacities for intercultural dialogue.
ii.The cultural and creative sector is a significant engine of global development. This sector accounts for over 48 million jobs worldwide, representing 6.2% of all employment and contributing 3.1% to the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
iii.Nearly 50% of these jobs are held by women, and the sector provides substantial employment opportunities for young people under the age of 30, making it a vital area for youth engagement and gender equality.
Upcoming Events:
i.MONDIACULT 2025:
The World Conference on Cultural Policies and Sustainable Development – MONDIACULT 2025 is scheduled from September 29 to October 1, 2025, in Barcelona, Spain.
ii.20th Anniversary of the 2005 Convention:
The 10th session of the Conference of Parties to the 2005 Convention will be held in Paris (France) from June 18 to 20, 2025, marking its 20th anniversary. Key agendas include:
- Electing 12 new members to the Intergovernmental Committee.
- Hosting a Civil Society Forum on June 17, 2025, to strengthen collaboration with civil society stakeholders.
About United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO):
Director-General (DG) – Audrey Azoulay
Headquarters – Paris, France
Established – 1945
Member Nations – 194
