PH Calls for Inclusive Dialogue, Greater Balance in UNESCO
Permanent Delegate to UNESCO and Ambassador Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro delivers the Philippine statement during the 206th session of the UNESCO Executive Board. (UNESCO photo)
PARIS 26 April 2019 – Philippine Permanent Delegate to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and Ambassador to France Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro highlighted the importance of inclusive dialogue as she delivered the Philippine Statement during the Plenary Debate of the 206th Session of the UNESCO Executive Board in Paris, France on 08 April 2019.
“All Member States, whether big or small, large donors or recipient countries, should be treated equally and benefit from UNESCO programs and activities. There has to be greater balance to reflect the diversity of opinions on topics of mutual interests,” Ambassador Lazaro said.
The Ambassador also emphasized that UNESCO is foremost an intergovernmental organization, created by Member States for its peoples. She stated that it is crucial for Member States to be fully consulted in formulation of programs, policies and publications.
“Consultation is being truly listened to so that we, Member States, become active stakeholders in key decisions of the Organization” Ambassador Lazaro added.
The Philippines was elected as member of the UNESCO Executive Board in November 2017. As member of the Board, the Philippines pledged to work on enhancing the capacity of Member States, particularly developing countries, in order to achieve sustainable development and lasting peace and security. The Philippines also aims to work on improving the organization’s efficiency and governance procedure. END
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