The United States of America And UNESCO: Building Knowledge, Bridging Cultures

T H E U S A A N D U N E S C O

B u i l d i n g K n o w l e d g e

B r i d g i n g C u l t u r e s

(Posted August 2003)

AMERICA'S PRINCIPLES AND MULTILATERAL COMMITMENT

U.S. PRIORITIES IN UNESCO
· Education and Development
· Democracy and the Free Flow of Information
· Scientific Progress
· Cultural Preservation and Exchange Programs
· UNESCO Reform

"It is America's honor and gift to be a nation of nations, whose people and aspirations touch every nation on the face of the earth. From universal dreams of freedom, equality and prosperity, we became a country that melded many different cultures, ideas, perspectives, and talents — giving us a rich diversity that continues to make us strong today. With this strength comes great responsibility and a desire to engage with the international community. And words are not enough. Americans are committed to turning these visions into action."

Colin L. Powell

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AMERICA'S PRINCIPLES AND MULTILATERAL COMMITMENT

President George W. Bush greets a member of the Uganda Watoto Children's Choir after they performed for him at the AIDS Support Organization Center in Entebbe, Uganda. (AP/WWP)

"As a symbol of our commitment to human dignity, the United States will return to UNESCO. This organization has been reformed and America will participate fully in its mission to advance human rights and tolerance and learning."

President George W. Bush
September 12, 2002

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, UNESCO, was founded after World War II to contribute to peace and security. Collaboration among nations through education, science and culture remains a cornerstone of a peaceful world order. The founders of UNESCO believed that the rule of law, respect for human rights, and freedom of expression would be strengthened through international cooperation. The need for the world community to renew its efforts to advance these principles has never been more urgent. American leadership in the service of peace and security can help mobilize multilateral institutions, including UNESCO, to stand up for common values that promote tolerance and thwart terrorism. The sanctity of human life must be a common commitment.

Americans were an important part of UNESCO's creation. Author Archibald MacLeish, the first American member of UNESCO's governing board, wrote the preamble to its 1945 Constitution. The opening lines captured the spirit of its founders: "Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed."

The United States rejoins UNESCO in October 2003 in that same spirit. Peace depends upon building a strong foundation of knowledge that can bridge nations, enlarge fundamental freedoms, and promote democracy with well-informed participants. America will work hard in UNESCO to expand and improve education, promote scientific progress and press freedom, enhance understanding, and protect cultural heritage worldwide.

U.S. Priorities in UNESCO »


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