Mission statement by UNESCO Bangkok Director Shigeru Aoyagi
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UNESCO’s approach to peace is based on its unique belief that lasting peace is more than security and freedom from violence, emphasizing the role of education, sciences, culture and communication and information in creating the conditions for lasting peace. As the new Director of UNESCO Bangkok, I wish to push forward this noble mandate of UNESCO in our region. Because the Asia-Pacific is such a culturally diverse region, UNESCO promotes Learning to Live Together and Global Citizenship to cultivate a culture of peace and respect for all diversity. Diversity should be considered as an asset for social, cultural and economic development of the region. However, the world experiences the rise of intolerance, conflict and violence despite the growing interconnectedness and interdependency among peoples and nations. In parallel to the international efforts in managing conflicts, we need to further strengthen and mobilize humanistic responses to develop new agents for peace. Especially in the field of education, one of the most significant goals of UNESCO’s programmes is the development of comprehensive systems of education that embrace the values of human rights, respect of cultural diversity, and tolerance as framed by the SDG Target 4.7 with the aim of promoting the knowledge, skills, attitudes and behaviours that reflect and inspire these values. We support UNESCO Member States in Asia and the Pacific to achieve the Sustainable Development Agenda 2030. We promote the common values of humanity – the respect for human rights, equality, inclusion and diversity across our mandate in education, the sciences, culture, and communication and information. Even prior to joining UNESCO Bangkok, I always felt that the Office was a shining star. This is thanks to the strong leadership of my predecessors and contributions of the committed colleagues of the Office. UNESCO Bangkok has long years of presence in Asia and the Pacific since 1961. It closely collaborate with 13 other Field Offices – and we function as a regional network. UNESCO Bangkok also has long-standing partnerships with stakeholders of various nature operating in various fields including UN entities, international development partners, cities, universities, schools and civil-society organizations. I would like to reinforce a multidisciplinary approach in addressing the multi-dimensional challenges of Agenda 2030. Please join us in achieving the vision that everyone in the Asia-Pacific can enjoy and contribute to a peaceful and sustainable future.
Director Shigeru Aoyagi |
