UNESCO adopts Vietnam’s initiative on Int’l Decade of Culture for Sustainable Development
VOV.VN - The UNESCO Executive Board has unanimously endorsed Vietnam’s initiative proposing that the United Nations consider proclaiming an “International Decade of Culture for Sustainable Development,” with a proposed timeframe of 2027–2036.

The endorsement took place at the 222nd session of the Executive Board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), in Paris, France, on October 15.
Introducing the initiative at the session, Ambassador Nguyen Thi Van Anh, Head of the Permanent Delegation of Vietnam to UNESCO, highlighted the crucial role of culture in promoting sustainable development across nations and in addressing complex global challenges, aiming to ensure a safe, peaceful, and prosperous future for all.
According to the roadmap, the proposal will be submitted to the UNESCO General Conference in November 2025 and subsequently presented to the United Nations General Assembly, expected in 2026.
The Executive Board’s endorsement marks a significant first step towards the official proclamation of a global initiative led by Vietnam. It demonstrates Vietnam’s concrete efforts in implementing national policies on deep international integration, revitalising and developing Vietnamese culture in the new era, while also advancing multilateral diplomacy and cultural diplomacy.
This initiative represents a meaningful contribution by Vietnam to UNESCO’s mission, especially in the field of culture, and reflects the country’s proactive and responsible engagement as a member of the Executive Board for the 2021–2025 term. The proposal has received broad support from member states and high praise from UNESCO leadership.
The consensus to adopt Vietnam’s proposal once again affirms the country’s growing role, position, and credibility within UNESCO and on the international stage. It also shows that Vietnam’s initiative aligns with the shared concerns of the global community, particularly in the face of today’s complex global challenges.