World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development – May 21

Most of the world’s major conflicts have a cultural dimension. Cultural diversity is a driving force of development, not only with respect to economic growth but also as a means of leading a more fulfilling intellectual, emotional, moral and spiritual life. Cultural diversity is an asset that is indispensable for poverty reduction and the achievement of sustainable development.

Acceptance and recognition of cultural diversity – in particular through innovative use of media and Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs) – are conducive to dialogue among civilizations and cultures, respect and mutual understanding.

This Day provides everyone with an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the values of cultural diversity and to advance the four goals of the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions:

1. Support sustainable systems of governance for culture
2. Achieve a balanced flow of cultural goods and services and increase the mobility of artists and cultural professionals
3. Integrate culture in sustainable development frameworks
4. Promote human rights and fundamental freedoms