Brazil
100th anniversary of the birth of Dorival Caymmi, composer and singer (1914-2008) (2014)Dorival Caymi is an exponential artist in Brazilian music and has contributed positively to projecting his region’s image and the working men and women of the north-eastern coast, through a sophisticated music style but of great popular appeal.
50th anniversary of the death of Brazilian modernist artists Anita Malfatti, painter (1889-1964) and Cecília Meireles, poet (1901-1964) (2014)
Anita Malfatti and Cecilia Meirelles each played in her own way a major role in twentieth-century modernism, projecting Brazil abroad by means of visual arts and literature. They placed themselves in the forefront of artistic movements and simultaneously broke taboos in the affirmation of the role of women in this context.
100th anniversary of the death of Augusto dos Anjos, poet (1884-1914) (2014)
Augusto dos Anjos is considered one of the greatest names in Brazilian poetry. Although he is recognized by major critics, researchers and specialists in literature, he has not yet acquired the deserved visibility, namely an articulation towards initiatives that aim to promote the poet in regional and national scales by implementing a museum and other lasting actions.
Brunei Darussalam
100th anniversary of Formal Education in Brunei Darussalam (2014-2015) (2014)The celebration of 100 years of formal education in Brunei Darussalam is relevant to UNESCO’s objectives of promoting the institutionalization of formal education systems in Member States. The celebration of this event will encourage efforts made by the country to continue their efforts towards UNESCO's programmatic objectives and will raise UNESCO’s visibility in the country.
Bulgaria
100th anniversary of the birth of Boris Christoff, opera singer (1914-1993) (2014)The request concerns the centenary of the birth of Boris Christoff, one of the greatest opera singers (bass) of the twentieth century. His exceptional voice, his subtle interpretation of opera roles and music, together with his stage presence, have made his performances the stuff of musical legend in Europe. For the younger generations, the audio and video recordings that have been preserved are testament to the significance of this great performer, who appeared on the major opera stages of the world.
100th anniversary of the death of Peyo Yavorov, poet and playwright (1878-1914) (2014)
This proposal calls on UNESCO to be associated with the 100th anniversary of the death of the poet Peyo Yavorov, a major Bulgarian author. His role in the development of Bulgarian poetry is undeniable. His many poems have been translated all over the world, thus proving their universality.
100th anniversary of the birth of Professor Tzvetana Romanska, ethnographer (1914-1969) (2014)
The Bulgarian ethnologist Tzvetana Romanska (1914-1969), made her mark through her studies and teaching at the Bulgarian School of Anthropology. She enabled a better understanding and interpretation of the traditions of the Bulgarian people and, more generally, the Slavs. Indeed, her innovative research methods led her to study the traditions of other Slavic peoples.
Cook Islands
50th anniversary of Cook Islands Library and Museum Society (1964) (2014)
The Cook Islands Library and Museum Society (CILAMS) has managed to collect an impressive set of items in its 50 year history, including the “E Tuatua Akakite” (a declaration in the Rarotonga Maori language, signed by Sir William Hillier Onslow, Earl of Onslow, Governor of New Zealand (1889-92) in 1891, on foolscap paper) that is proposed for inscription on the Memory of the World register as one of its most significant items.
Côte d'Ivoire
| 50th anniversary of the intellectual career of Professor Zadi Zaourou, politician and writer (1938-2012) (2014)
The extraordinary Bernard Zadi Zaourou was a university teacher, politician and writer. His research in the field of African literature and his many books have helped to promote African culture and tolerance between communities. His writings on the status of women in society show him to be a defender of the feminist cause. An author of poetry, plays and critical studies, he was also the theorist behind Didiga, an artistic and philosophical aesthetics.
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Croatia
| 100th anniversary of the death of Antun Gustav Matoš, poet and writer (1873-1914) (2014) One of the most important Croatian writers of the nineteenth century, Antun Gustav Matoš significantly modernized the prose, poetry and literary criticism of his country. His texts are peopled by local characters but their psychological and philosophical dimension gives them a universal dimension.
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| 200th anniversary of the birth of Ivan Mažuranić, poet (1814-1890) (2014) Mažuranić is one of the most important literary figures of Croatia. He developed the first modern Croatian dictionary and his reputation as a poet was well established in the region. He established the first South Slav University in Zagreb in 1874. He played a very active role in the administrative and cultural development of Croatia. In view of his contribution to the study and development of the Croatian language, and to the modernization of the education system, UNESCO could be associated with this anniversary.
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Cuba
500th anniversary of the foundation of the first towns in Central and Eastern Cuba (2014-2015) (2014)The proposed anniversary refers to the foundation of four of the first 7 townships founded by Spain in Cuba in the early years of the sixteenth century. While the four towns are national monuments, three of them are totally (Camagüey, Trinidad) or partially (the fortifications of Santiago de Cuba) World Heritage sites, and thus have Outstanding Universal Value. The celebration of the anniversary will also be the occasion to promote cultural diversity and identity today, publish pedagogical material, organize seminars, carry out conservation works, and establish the relation with other UNESCO conventions, such as the 2001 Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage.
| 100th anniversary of the death of Carlos J. Finlay, scientist (1833-1915) (2014)
Carlos J. Finlay is very well known scientist by his methxenic theory of biological vectors for transmissions of diseases, which was the scientific ground to eradicate yellow fever in America. His major contribution was not only identifying the transmitting agent of yellow fever, but also to determinate that certain diseases were transmitted not so much through person-to-person contagion as through a biological vector.
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| 200th anniversary of the birth of Gertrudis Gómez de Avellaneda, writer (1814-1873) (2014)
Cuban Gertrudis Gómez de Avellaneda is one of the most important female authors in Spanish, who did not only excel in the quality of her writings, but who advocated for the abolition of slavery, as early as in 1841, and actively criticized the discrimination of women, for which she should be considered as a pioneer in promoting gender equality.
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| 100th anniversary of the birth of Samuel Feijóo Rodríguez, writer (1914-1992) (2014)
Feijóo was a poet and writer interested in the diversity of Cuba’s popular culture, as opposed to other forms of art. The work of this multi-faceted artist is a fundamental source for studying Cuba's intangible heritage, and its relation to Europe, Africa, and Latin America, though it is not, by itself, a work of intangible cultural heritage. Through his work, he promoted intercultural exchange and dialogue, and contributed to make Cuban culture known worldwide, thanks to his visit to many countries in which his work was presented.
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Cyprus
100th anniversary of the birth of Costas Montis, poet (1914-2004) (2014)Costas Montis was one of his country’s greatest poets. His work evokes the rich culture and history of Cyprus. His award-winning poetry is strong on imagery and contains universal humanitarian values. His poems have been translated into Albanian, Bulgarian, Dutch, English, French, German, Portuguese, Spanish and Swedish (according to UNESCO’s Index Translationum) – thus providing evidence of his universalism.
Czech Republic
100th anniversary of the birth of Bohumil Hrabal, writer (1914-1997) (2014)
Bohumil Hrabal (1914–1997) is considered as one of the best Czech writers. He started as a poet, and was highly appreciated for an expressive, highly visual style. His most common theme was Political quandaries and their concomitant moral ambiguities. His capacity to juxtapose beauty and cruelty, foolishness and wisdom with humour and imagination gained him recognition for his original style. Two of his best-known novels Closely Observed Trains (1965) and I Served the King of England, were made into movies in 1966 and 2006, respectively. His works have been translated into 27 languages.
France
100th anniversary of the birth of Romain Gary, writer (1914-1980) (2014)
Romain Gary, whose real name was Roman Kacew, was a French novelist. Uniquely in the history of the Prix Goncourt, he won it twice, the first time under his usual pen name and the second time under the assumed identity of Emile Ajar in 1975. He was a French career diplomat. Several of his books have been adapted for the cinema. He also made two films, for which he was both director and screenwriter.
100th anniversary of the birth of Marguerite Duras, writer (1914-1996) (2014)
Marguerite Duras was a French writer, playwright, screenwriter and director. Her creative significance lies in the diversity and the modernity of her work, which renewed the novel as a genre and challenged convention in theatre and cinema. Marguerite Duras is still one of the most studied authors in high schools today. Some of her work has been translated into more than 35 languages.
Germany
| 100th anniversary of the death of August Macke, painter (1887-1914) (2014)
August Macke was a German expressionist painter. In 1907, he discovered Impressionism in France. This discovery changed his perception of life and painting, enabling him to portray the ephemeral nature of appearance and the precise fixation of a spontaneous impression. While living in the countryside in 1909, the living conditions and the peacefulness of his natural surroundings enabled Macke to produce over 200 paintings. Macke was called up in 1914 and killed on the battlefield at the age of 27.
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| 250th anniversary of the birth of Johann Gottfried Schadow, sculptor (1764-1850) (2014)
Johann Gottfried Schadow (1764-1850) was a German sculptor. He was the most significant representative of the German classicism and is considered as the founder of the Berliner Bildhauerschule. Over half a century he produced upwards of two hundred works, varied in style as in subjects. Schadow, as director of the Berlin Academy, had great influence, he wrote on the proportions of the human figure, on national physiognomy.
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| 150th anniversary of the birth of Max Weber, sociologist and philosopher (1864-1920) (2014)
Max Weber is one of the most important historical figures in the social sciences and is a central reference for researchers in a wide range of areas.
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Greece
400th anniversary of the death of Doménikos Theotokopoulos (known as El Greco – “the Greek”), painter, sculptor and architect (1541-1614) (Greece and Spain) (2014)El Greco was a painter, sculptor, and architect of the Spanish Renaissance. Born in Crete, which was at that time part of the Republic of Venice, he lived in Italy, where he mastered the style of Mannerism, and then he moved to Spain where he spent the rest of his life. For his elongated figures, dramatic and expressionistic settings he is considered by many as a precursor of twentieth century art (expressionism and cubism). He created an innovative visual language, blending Byzantine heritage with Italian and Spanish styles. His original style, derived from the mixing of diverse cultures, stands as an example of cultural diversity as a path towards enrichment and evolution.
Hungary
200th anniversary of the birth of Miklós Ybl, architect (1814-1891) (2014)Ybl was one of nineteenth century Europe’s leading architects as well as Hungary’s most influential architect. His most well-known work is the Hungarian State Opera House in Budapest (1875-1884). Taking into account that most of the buildings he designed, built or reconstructed are situated within the boundaries of the World Heritage Site “Budapest, including the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue”, it is important to provide support for this anniversary, which contributes to the promotion and sharing with the international community of Hungarian rich and diverse heritage.
100th anniversary of the death of Ödön Lechner, architect (1845-1914) (2014)
Lechner was one of the early representatives of the Hungarian Secession movement, called szecesszió in Hungarian, and he is usually admired as the father of the Hungarian Art Nouveau style architecture. Lechner aimed to form a national style, using motifs from old Magyar and Turkic folk art, in the decoration of his buildings as well as incorporating architectural elements from eastern cultures like Persia. The most famous work of the architect is the Hungarian Museum of Applied Arts. The Museum is considered to be an experimental piece in the history of Hungarian architecture. The outer ornaments of the building with its glazed ceramic tiles and flower patterns are traces of Indian, Persian, Moor and Hungarian folklore influence. In trying to create a distinct and unique architecture, Lechner revaluated vernacular motifs bridging Eastern and Western artistic styles. “Ödön Lechner’s independent pre-modern architecture” is inscribed on the World Heritage Tentative List of Hungary (2008).
Iran (Islamic Republic of)
800th anniversary of the compilation of Fawā’ih al-Jamāl wa Fawatih al-Jalāl, work of philosophy and mysticism (c. 1214) (2014)The influence of the compilation remains recognized in contemporary scholarship as a significant component of a Sufi tradition that has cultural and historical significance. In this respect, it appears that the proposal is consistent with the ideals and missions of UNESCO and does concern a work of worldwide significance.
600th anniversary of the compilation of Maqāsed al-Alhān, work in the field of musicology (c. 1414) (with the support of Azerbaijan and Turkey) (2014)
The Maqāsed al-Alhān is a prominent work in musicology which is a reference book to the Iranian traditional music of its era. It covers not only the Islamic Republic of Iran but also some of the surrounding region in Central Asia.
800th anniversary of the birth of Fakr-al-Dīn Ebrāhīm Erāqī, poet and sufi (c. 1214-1289) (2014)
Eraqi’s movements to different regions in view of seeking knowledge and also expanding Sufism (from Iran to Arabia, India and Anatolia) would be an outstanding model for what is called nowadays Intercultural Dialogue. His encounters and exchanges with different savants like Jalal al-din Rumi, resulted in the development of his great works such as his “Divan” which is known as love mysteries. Regarding his place in both Persian and Sufi literatures, his anniversary would contribute certainly to the promotion and reinforcement of Intercultural-Dialogue.
700th anniversary of the birth of Mirseyed Ali Hamedani (1314-1385), mystic and poet (Islamic Republic of Iran and Tajikistan, with the support of India and Pakistan) (2014)
Mirseyed Ali Hamedani was a Persian Sufi, a poet and a prominent Muslim scholar. Born in a noble family in Hamadan (Islamic Republic of Iran), he travelled far and wide throughout the Muslim world and beyond. Hamedani was one of the principal historical figures who shaped the culture of Kashmir, both architecturally (fusion of Central Asian and Kashmiri architecture), and also through the flourishing of arts, crafts and hence the economy in the valley. The skills and know-how he brought to Kashmir gave rise to an entire industry. A mystic and a social reformer, Hamedani was also a man of letters; he wrote about a hundred pamphlets in Arabic and Persian on subjects related to Sufism, ethics, etc.; the book Zakhirat-ul-Maluk has been published in several languages. He ended his life in the city of Kulob in the Khatlan region of Tajikistan, where people still today gather in a large numbers to pay homage to him. The proposed event “Mir Saeed Ali Hamadani and Civilization of Peace” is well conceived; the anniversary proposal is jointly submitted by two Member States (Islamic Republic of Iran and Tajikistan) with the support of India and Pakistan.
Jordan
1350th anniversary of the death of al-Khansa, poetess (575-664) (2014)The poetess is famous in the Arab world. She is the best known female poet in Arabic literature for her elegies.
Kazakhstan
| 100th anniversary of the birth of Shaken Aimanov, film-director and actor (1914-1970) (2014)
Regarding the impact of Mr Aimanov’s works on the Kazakh cinema and important role that the film maker played in introducing the Kazakh Cinema outside Kazakhstan and throughout the world, this anniversary deserves to be co-celebrated by UNESCO.
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Latvia
200th anniversary of the birth of Janis Cimze, composer (1814-1881) (2014)The proposal calls for UNESCO to be associated with the 200th anniversary of the birth of one of the most important composers, music teachers and collectors of folk songs in Latvia. For many years Cimze conducted choirs and trained choir leaders in Latvia and Estonia. With his passion for folk songs, he saved huge swathes of the Latvian and Estonian national musical tradition. He and his students created the festivals of song and dance in Latvia and Estonia that are inscribed as “Baltic song and dance celebrations” on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. His parallel work with Latvians, Estonians and Baltic Germans ties in perfectly with the idea of intercultural dialogue and promoting the diversity of cultural expressions.
300th anniversary of the birth of Gothards Frïdrihs Stenders, writer (1714-1796) (2014)
The request concerns the 300th anniversary of the birth of the Latvian writer, linguist and thinker, Gothards Frïdrihs Stenders. He authored the first non-religious texts in Latvian, created the basis for Latvian linguistics, launched a debate on education in his country and wrote school textbooks. These writings helped to disseminate progressive thought in Latvia in various fields – in philosophy, the arts, science and technology. His work is an excellent example of interaction between Latvian and German culture. His activities extended beyond the borders of his homeland, as he also worked in Germany and Denmark.
Lithuania
| 300th anniversary of the birth of Kristijonas Donelaitis, writer (1714-1780) (2014)
The proposal requests UNESCO to be associated with the celebration of the 300th anniversary of the birth of a writer who is considered to be the father of Lithuanian literature. This Lutheran pastor, parish schools inspector and choirmaster also wrote the first Lithuanian language poem, “Metai” (The Seasons). It describes the daily lives of serfs over the four seasons of the year – their labours and their festivities. The poem has already been translated into 20 European languages, which proves its universal dimension.
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Madagascar
| 700th anniversary of the introduction of the “Sorabe” alphabet, used by the Malagasy population (2014)
Sorabe is a collection of ancient manuscripts; it conserves various pieces of written knowledge and science in Arabic characters, as well as recording the history of the Antemoro people, and several other subjects. It also contains prayers and magic formulas for healing the sick, casting and warding off spells and calling the spirits. It is a common heritage of the Malagasy and other island States. It helps to preserve mutual respect among the peoples and cultures of the region.
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Mexico
100th anniversary of the birth of Octavio Paz, writer (1914-1998) (2014)Octavio Paz was born in Mexico City. At an early age he published his first poems and also directed various literary magazines. His wide work includes numerous books of poetry and essays. In 1981 he received the Cervantes Prize and in 1990 the Nobel Prize of Literature.
Montenegro
| 100th anniversary of the birth of Mihailo Lalić, writer (1914-1992) (Montenegro with the support of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia) (2014)
Mihailo Lalić, author of 12 novels, is one of the most recognized novelists of the region. Although he also wrote poetry, criticism, reportage, travelogues, screenplays, and plays, he acquired his reputation from his novels and short stories. His novels, four of which – Lelejska gora (1957, translated as The Wailing Mountain, 1965), Ratna sreca (War Fortune, 1973), Hajka (Chase, 1960), and Zlo proljece (Evil Spring, 1953) – are of seminal value. He was the first recipient of the Njegoš Award in 1963 (one of the most prestigious Montenegrin award in the field) for Lelejska gora, and his novel Ratna sreća won the prize of the NIN magazine for the novel of the year in 1973. Lalić’s work rises above its spatial and temporal framework, delineating the local and regional identities in the broader flows of European and world literature and culture. Through meticulous investigations of the questions of the individual and collective values and identity, especially in the context of the Second World War, he persistently stressed the importance of human dignity and ethical soundness in the face of natural and social adversities.
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Peru
| 50th anniversary of the publication of the novel “Todas las Sangres” (All the Bloods) by Jose Maria Arguedas (1964) (2014)
Todas las sangres by Jose Maria Arguedas refers to a multicultural society, its struggles to positively enhance differences, safeguard different languages and its freedom for an individual cultural identity. It also concerns the transition of an economy based upon agriculture to a modern, capitalist economy of mineral extraction. Such a transition is not an instance of modernization in any simple sense; it is less interested in physical ruins than in the fragmentation and ruination of a social order. The novel is an aspiration to generate profound changes in any divided society that seeks recognition of its own diversity.
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Poland
100th anniversary of the birth of Andrzej Panufnik, composer (1914-1991) (2014)This proposal requests UNESCO patronage for the various celebrations of the 100th anniversary of the birth of one of the most important Polish and British composers of the twentieth century. As with the works of Witold Lutostawski, Krzysztof Penderecki and Henryk Gorecki, Andrzej Panufnik’s compositions played a major role in the musical landscape of the last century. After years of working in Poland and feeling stifled by the shackles imposed on art by the communist regime, Andrzej Panufnik left his country and moved to the United Kingdom, where he continued his career as a composer and was Chief Conductor of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra for a number of years. His many compositions are performed throughout Europe, in America (under the direction of Leopold Stokowski) and elsewhere. In 1950, Andrzej Panufnik was appointed Vice-President of the International Music Council at UNESCO. His music is deeply rooted in the history of the twentieth century, rich in human values (e.g. “Heroic overture” – which won a music competition in connection with the Helsinki Olympic Games, “Sinfonia di Speranza”, “Katyń Epitaph”, “Symphony of Peace”, “Universal Prayer”, “Invocation of Peace”, “A Procession for Peace”) and endeavours to convey a message of peace.
200th anniversary of the birth of Oskar Kolberg, ethno-musicologist (1814-1890) (2014)
This project focuses on the celebration of the 200th anniversary of the birth of Oskar Kolberg – an outstanding practitioner in the fields of ethnography, ethnomusicology and folklore studies. During his lifetime Kolberg identified and categorized by region the popular and folk culture of Poland and Western Ukraine. His work contains around 100 volumes under the common title "People: their customs, lifestyles, language, legends, proverbs and ceremonies." This landmark work makes him one of the most important European folklore specialists and a pioneer of cultural anthropology. The sheer scale of this documentation of oral creativity and popular culture was a unique phenomenon in nineteenth-century Europe. The wealth and diversity of the cultural traditions of the many regions of Poland identified by Kolberg make a significant contribution to the universal cultural heritage. The Polish Parliament has declared 2014 to be “Oskar Kolberg Year”.
Romania
300th anniversary of the death of Prince Constantin Brâncoveanu, patron of culture and arts (1654-1714) (2014)This is a request for UNESCO to be associated with the 300th anniversary of the death of the Prince of Wallachia, Constantin Brâncoveanu. Canonized by the Romanian Orthodox Church in 1992, he was one of the most significant contributors to the culture of his country. He founded churches and monasteries (some of which are on the World Heritage List). He was also a patron of painters, sculptors and publishers. This is why, in Romanian culture, the years of his reign are known as “the Brâncoveanu era.”
150th anniversary of the birth of Elena Văcărescu, writer (1864-1947) (2014)
This request concerns the 150th anniversary of the birth of Elena Văcărescu, a Franco-Romanian writer and twice a laureate of the Académie Française for her poetry collections “Songs of Dawn” and “The Rhapsody of the Dâmboviţa”. She also translated Romanian poets such as Mihai Eminescu, Lucian Blaga and Octavian Goga into French. Elena Văcărescu wrote numerous books of poetry, novels, plays and memoirs. Of particular importance is her work with the League of Nations, where she was first an alternate, later serving as a permanent delegate in 1925-1926. She was the first woman in the history of the League of Nations to hold the rank of ambassador. Her work is an excellent example of interaction between Romanian and French culture and her work extends well beyond the borders of her homeland.
50th anniversary of the death of Tudor Vianu, literary and art critic, philosopher and writer (1898-1964) (2014)
Tudor Vianu was a literary critic, art critic, philosopher, poet, teacher, academic, and translator. His investigations into cultural history, coupled with his vivid interest in the sociology of culture, allowed him to develop an influential philosophy, which attributed culture a seminal role in shaping human destiny. According to his views, culture, which had liberated humans from natural imperatives, was an asset that intellectuals were required to preserve by intervening in social life. Tudor Vianu is the founder of the School of stylistics of the Faculty of Letters in Bucharest, and initiator of the Department of Literature. During his late years, he translated several of William Shakespeare’s works into Romanian.
Russian Federation
250th anniversary of the foundation of the State (formerly Imperial) Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg (1764) (2014)The event is to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the State Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg through the opening of new permanent and temporary exhibitions. The anniversary is fully linked to the ideals and mission of the Organization, especially in the field of Culture.
200th anniversary of the birth of Mikhail Lermontov, poet and painter (1814-1841) (2014)
The application is submitted by the Russian Federation, and concerns the celebration of the 200th anniversary of a great and famous Russian poet, writer and painter, the most important figure in the Russian literature after Alexander Pushkin, Mikhail Lermontov. M. Lermontov is an author of the world wide known novel A Hero of Our Time, the verse play The Masquerade, numerous poems (e.g. Death of the Poet, Borodino, Demon, the Sail, etc.) plays an important role not only in Russian history and literature, but in the literature of the world. The celebrating of the 200th birth anniversary of Mikhail Lermontov will contribute to the mutual enrichment of cultures in the world; will help to promote international understanding, closer relations among peoples, cultural dialogue among peoples, and progress in the fields of culture.
300th anniversary of the foundation of the Komarov Botanical Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences (1714) (2014)
The Komarov Botanical Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences is one of the oldest and most significant botanical institutions in the world. It possesses vast natural history collections (living collections of the botanical garden, herbaria, fossils, fruits and seeds, etc.) of worldwide importance and great scientific and cultural significance. The institute played a great role in study of plant diversity of Russia and other countries (especially those of Central and East Asia).
Serbia
100th anniversary of the death of Stevan Mokranjac, composer (1856-1914) (2014)Stevan Mokranjac (1856-1914) is considered the father of Serbian classical music. He was the first to introduce the romantic style in the Balkan region. He created a specific form of music in the region called Rukoveti by combining folk melodies from all the Balkan states into rhapsodies. He is considered as one of the most important composers of Orthodox sacred music. He founded the first music school in Serbia.
200th anniversary of the birth of Josif Pančić, scientist (1814-1888) (Serbia, with the support of Croatia) (2014)
Josif Pančić has contributed to the general knowledge of the flora and fauna of the Balkan Peninsula and of Europe is inestimable. He has discovered and made description of almost 60 new species of vascular flora, and most significant among them are the Balkans endemo-relicts. He is the founder of almost all the disciplines in natural sciences in Serbia, particularly in plant and animal taxonomy and biogeography.
Slovakia
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300th anniversary of the birth of Edmund Pascha, composer (1714-1772) (2014)
Edmund Pascha (Páska) (1714-1772) was a preacher, organist and composer. His most famous compositions are Christmas carols and Easter songs. He was also recognized as a writer and baroque music interpreter. One of Pascha’s well-known works, Vianocná omša F-dur (Christmas mass) is part of the Slovak folk landscape. His compositions have helped preserve Slovak folk tradition with regard to Christmas and Easter.
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| 150th anniversary of the birth of Jozef Murgaš, scientist
(1864-1929) (2014)
Jozef Murgaš was an inventor, botanist, painter and Roman Catholic priest. His most important achievement was the wireless transmission of the spoken word in front of witnesses, for which he has been recognized as one of the inventors of radio. On 27 April 1905 he achieved the full transmission for the first time.
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Spain
400th anniversary of the death of Doménikos Theotokopoulos (known as El Greco – “the Greek”), painter, sculptor and architect (1541-1614) (Greece and Spain) (2014)El Greco was a painter, sculptor, and architect of the Spanish Renaissance. Born in Crete, which was at that time part of the Republic of Venice, he lived in Italy, where he mastered the style of Mannerism, and then he moved to Spain where he spent the rest of his life. For his elongated figures, dramatic and expressionistic settings he is considered by many as a precursor of twentieth century art (expressionism and cubism). He created an innovative visual language, blending Byzantine heritage with Italian and Spanish styles. His original style, derived from the mixing of diverse cultures, stands as an example of cultural diversity as a path towards enrichment and evolution.
Sri Lanka
| 100th anniversary of the birth of Ediriweera Sarachchandra, philosopher, writer and diplomat (1914-1996) (2014)
Ediriweera Sarachchandra (1914-1996) is an eminent literary figure from Sri Lanka, has several plays, poetry and literary works to his credit. He helped revive several rich traditional art forms of Sri Lanka and through his theatre work introduced his compatriots to the rich cultural and spiritual aspects of Sri Lankan culture. His works are internationally acclaimed and he has received several international awards.
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Tajikistan
600th anniversary of the birth of Abd ar-Rahman Jami, poet, philosopher and humanist (1414-1492) (with the support of the Islamic Republic of Iran) (2014)Abd ar-Rahman Jami is major national figure, with regional scope. He is recognized as a major poet as well as a thinker within the traditions to which he contributed.
100th anniversary of the birth of Ziyodullo Shahidi, composer (1914-1985) (2014)
Ziyodullo Shahidi formalized modern Tajik music and became known as an outstanding figure of this form of synthesis. His first chamber instrumental pieces, such as Rondo (1948), Concert for piano & violin (1949), were inspired by the search for new forms, styles, and expressions of modern music. His constant dream to transform maqams into symphony was realized during the early 50s, gradually changing his style of thinking and developing his musical identity. Driven by his enlightening character to draw the attention of his countrymen to symphonic thought, his composition was based on the interpretation of the original classical cycle Shashmaqom within the modern European harmony. His original contribution to that combination was based on the idea of the interconnectedness of common and universal thoughts of both traditions. In the wisdom of maqam tradition and symphonic thought, Ziyodullo Shahidi saw not the contradictions of musical traditions, but the harmony of being and the eternity of love.
700th anniversary of the birth of Mirseyed Ali Hamedani (1314-1385), mystic and poet (Islamic Republic of Iran and Tajikistan, with the support of India and Pakistan) (2014)
Mirseyed Ali Hamedani was a Persian Sufi, a poet and a prominent Muslim scholar. Born in a noble family in Hamadan (Islamic Republic of Iran), he travelled far and wide throughout the Muslim world and beyond. Hamedani was one of the principal historical figures who shaped the culture of Kashmir, both architecturally (fusion of Central Asian and Kashmiri architecture), and also through the flourishing of arts, crafts and hence the economy in the valley. The skills and know-how he brought to Kashmir gave rise to an entire industry. A mystic and a social reformer, Hamedani was also a man of letters; he wrote about a hundred pamphlets in Arabic and Persian on subjects related to Sufism, ethics, etc.; the book Zakhirat-ul-Maluk has been published in several languages. He ended his life in the city of Kulob in the Khatlan region of Tajikistan, where people still today gather in a large numbers to pay homage to him. The proposed event “Mir Saeed Ali Hamadani and Civilization of Peace” is well conceived; the anniversary proposal is jointly submitted by two Member States (Islamic Republic of Iran and Tajikistan) with the support of India and Pakistan.
Thailand
| 100th anniversary of King Prajadhipok of Siam's commencement of service in Thailand and anniversary of the 10th Asian cycle of his birth (1914) (2014)
King Prajadhipok (Rama VII) played a significant role in improving the Thai educational system and strongly supported the process of democratization in Thailand. During his nine-year reign, King Prajadhipok initiated educational programmes which contributed to the provision of basic education for all children and the advancement of girls’ and women’s education at different levels. His reform of Chulalongkorn University was an important development in the higher education sub-sector. Recognizing HM King Prajadhipok’s contribution to Thai education system will have a major impact in advocating for UNESCO's mandate in the field of education.
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| 150th anniversary of the birth of Her Majesty Queen Sri Bajarindra (1864-1919) (2014)
An important and enormously well-respected figure in Thai history, H.M. Queen Sri Bajarindra was H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s great aunt. She made a significant contribution to advancing education for girls and women in Thailand, and founded many leading schools for women in the country. As the consort and also Regent of Thailand’s great King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), she played an important role in intercultural dialogue through several historic visits and exchanges with Europe, Japan and other Southeast Asian countries. It should be noted that Queen Sri Bajarindra is sister to Queen Sri Savarindira, who was recognized in the UNESCO Calendar of Anniversaries of Great Personalities and Historic Events for 2012-2013, and great-grand-aunt to HRH Princess Sirindhorn who is a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador.
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Turkey
100th anniversary of the establishment of the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts (1914) (2014)Possessing a rich collection of Islamic arts and founded in the Ottoman Empire era, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts is celebrating its 100th Anniversary. Its mandates in the conservation and promotion of cultural heritage for intercultural dialogue are linked to the Organization’s ideals and missions. The Anniversary should be celebrated in the international sphere.
100th anniversary of the death of İsmail Gaspıralı, journalist and publisher (1851-1914) (Turkey with the support of Ukraine) (2014)
Ismail Gaspıralı was not only an educational reformer, a strong promoter of literacy, and proponent of mother-tongue education, but also an avid supporter of women's education and emancipation. Gaspıralı also made contributions to journalistic work. With his daughter Sefiqa, Gaspıralı published the first journal for women which focused on domestic economy, childcare, needlework, knowledge about health and religion, Alem-i Nisvan (World of Women), as well as a publication for children, Alem-i Subyan (World of Children). He believed that progress required educational reform, teaching a modern curriculum by modern methods, encouraging social and economic cooperation, and cultural exchange. He had an intellectually moderate and practical influence at the regional level.
50th anniversary of the death of Halide Edip Adıvar, teacher and social philosopher (1884-1964) (2014)
Halide Edip Adivar is an important figure in the history of modern Turkey. She was involved in the Independence movement as a corporal and then sergeant. She was an educator, novelist, philosopher, journalist, member of Parliament (1950-54), women’s rights advocate and activist. She was also a member of the Turkish National Commission for UNESCO and a member of the Executive Board.
450th anniversary of the death of Matrakçı Nasuh, scientist (1480-1564) (2014)
Matrakçi Nasuh is renowned in the sixteenth century as a mathematician, historian, miniaturist, geographer, cartographer, topographer, calligrapher and engineer. He wrote two books on mathematics. He was a pioneer in mathematics education and his book “Umdet-ul Hisab” is an excellent example of a successful blend of mathematical pedagogy and rigorous content of knowledge.
Ukraine
200th anniversary of the birth of Taras Shevchenko, poet (1814-1861) (2014)This is a request for UNESCO to be associated with the 200th anniversary of Taras Shevchenko, a poet considered to be the most important writer in the literary pantheon of the Ukraine. His name is associated with the Ukrainian national revival of the nineteenth century and the birth of the Ukrainian literary language. His artistic activity was not confined to writing, for Shevchenko was also a talented painter who produced some 150 portraits and numerous landscapes and watercolours. His association with ideas such as freedom, patriotism, democracy and peace makes the commemoration of his anniversary fully consistent with the objectives of UNESCO.
150th anniversary of the birth of Pavlo Grabovsky, poet (1864-1956) (2014)
The project focuses on the 150th anniversary of the birth of Pavlo Grabovsky, a poet, journalist and – more notably – a brilliant translator. His work includes over 100 translations from some 20 languages. Thanks to him, Byron, Goethe, Heine, Hugo, Leopardi, Maeterlinck, Pushkin, Tolstoy and many other authors were made available in Ukrainian, often for the first time. His vast body of work warrants the recognition of UNESCO, which has always seen translation as the best way of promoting dialogue between peoples and cultures.
150th anniversary of the birth of Mykhaylo Kotsyubynsky, writer (1864-1913) (2014)
This request calls for UNESCO to be associated with the 150th anniversary of the birth of Mykhaylo Kotsyubynsky – one of the most important Ukrainian writers. His novels and short stories played a significant role in the revival of Ukrainian prose, largely thanks to their introduction of psychological realism. Kotsyubynsky was also a master of the “landscape” and Ukrainian critics nicknamed him the “impressionist of the Ukrainian novel.” His most famous novel, “Fata Morgana”, depicts the peasants’ struggle for their social rights, the “proletarianization” of the countryside and the peasants’ revolutionary movement in its various forms – strikes, demonstrations, confiscation of land from major landowners, etc. Kotsyubynsky also played an active role in organizing the democratic press in the Ukraine. UNESCO association with this anniversary could help to focus international attention on his work, which is so steeped in democratic reform, freedom of expression and the fight for social equality.
