In a world changing quickly, in times of limited resources, we must focus on the most critical drivers for sustainable development, poverty eradication and lasting peace.

I believe that cooperation in education, culture, the sciences, communication and information is a powerful force for transformative change. Over recent years, UNESCO has strengthened its global leadership, within the UN System, spearheading major initiatives like the UN Plan of Action for the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity, as well as safeguarding world heritage in Libya, Mali and Syria and elsewhere.  UNESCO has been entrusted to steer forward major UN Secretary General initiatives, including the Global Education First initiative and the UN Scientific Advisory Board.

I am determined to focus ever more on these leadership priorities, to craft stronger, more effective action to reach internationally-agreed development goals by 2015 and set a new global development agenda.