UNESCO: National Statement of Iceland at the 221st Session of the Executive Board
National Statement of Iceland
221st Session of the Executive Board of UNESCO
Delivered by H.E. Ms Audbjörg Halldórsdóttir, Permanent Delegate of Iceland
Ms Chairperson of the Executive Board,
Ms Director-General,
Ms President of the General Conference,
Excellencies, distinguished colleagues,
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the United Nations. This is an important juncture to remind ourselves of the core principles of the Preamble to the UN Charter for our collective actions: respect for fundamental human rights, the dignity and worth of all people, the equal rights of all, and of nations large and small. These values continue to resonate deeply as we face growing challenges.
As a leading multilateral organization dedicated to the promotion of peace, security, and sustainable development, UNESCO must embody our collective commitment to human dignity, justice, and equality – and the respect for international law.
The underlying principle for the foundation of the United Nations is the belief that all people are born free and equal in dignity and rights. This belief must be reflected in all aspects of UNESCO’s work, especially in our efforts to advance education, gender equality, freedom of expression, and the protection, and inclusion, of the most vulnerable.
The 2030 Agenda - serves as our shared roadmap. Leave no one behind. SDG 5 on Gender Equality recognizes that gender equality is a prerequisite for sustainable development. Without the full participation of women and girls, we cannot build a just and equitable world. UNESCO’s efforts in advancing gender equality within it‘s mandate play a critical role in breaking cycles of poverty, inequalities, and violence - but we must also work together to dismantle the harmful biases and discriminatory laws and practices that still persist.
For this we need to promote a transformative approach to the work of UNESCO.
The ongoing crisis in Afghanistan is a painful reminder of the urgency of this work. The systematic repression of Afghan women and girls, underscores the importance of our efforts. We must continue to support UNESCO’s work in providing education to those who are denied it. We appreciate UNESCO’s work in organizing the Conference on the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan, which our Minister for Foreign Affairs was proud to contribute to.
It is important not to become complacent - human rights need to be actively strengthened and protected in all areas of UNESCO‘s work. Iceland is in favour of an increased focus on gender diversity and the rights of LGBTQI+ people. Now is not the time to look away. Now is the time to stand firmly behind the human rights of all.
Dear Colleagues,
The climate crisis represents one of the most pressing challenges of our time, and UNESCO’s leadership in this area is in-dispensable. Iceland remains committed to achieving SDG 14, which calls for the preservation of our oceans. Climate change is deeply intertwined with social, economic, and political realities and we must integrate climate action into all areas of UNESCO’s mandate, from education to science to culture.
We must continue to strengthen the work of the IOC, ensuring the preservation of its functional autonomy, as we tackle the challenges facing our oceans. The need for science-based decisions has never been clearer.
Dear Colleagues,
Despite recent efforts, Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine continues and has now entered its‘ fourth year, with ongoing devastating effect on Ukrainians. It is also an attack on the multilateral system and a blatant violation of international law.
We commend UNESCO’s continuous efforts in supporting Ukraine, which is essential in combatting the long-term effect of Russia’s aggression.
The devastation in Gaza highlights the catastrophic consequences of unending conflict. Entire communities have been destroyed, with schools, homes, and hospitals reduced to rubble. The children of Gaza have missed their second consecutive school year, and their entire future hangs in the balance. The urgency of UNESCO‘s work here remains vital, and we call on Member States to support UNESCO‘s much needed emergency assistance programme. Colleagues.
UNESCO, like other UN entities, is impacted by the increasing pressure on international cooperation and the multilateral system with fiscal challenges that can threaten the Organization‘s capacity to carry out it‘s mandate .
As Secretary-General Guterres pointed out, these constraints are not just numbers on a balance sheet; they represent real consequences for millions of lives. We cannot allow the erosion of resources to compromise our values or the protection of fundamental rights.
For UNESCO to remain relevant, the Organization must ensure accountability and stay agile, inclusive and effective. UNESCO must also stay focused on priorities and necessary reforms. We may have to do more with less, or save where possible, so that key activities can stay intact. Prioritize priorities.
We welcome UNESCO’s presentation of the 43 C/5 draft programme and budget, which will guide our way forward, almost to the end of Agenda 2030. The strong integrated budget is very encouraging and so is the increased intersectoral focus. We also appreciate the Organization’s work on improving appropriate risk management and financial mechanisms controls.
Let me, as always, extend our thanks to the IOS and the entire Secretariat team for excellent reports and their tireless efforts in preparing for this board meeting. Your professionalism and dedication is much appreciated.
Dear friends,
This Executive Board takes place in more uncertain times than often before. This unfortunately means that some of our deliberations will have to work around certain unknowns. While the future remains difficult to predict, I hope it remains our collective goal at this Executive Board, to equip UNESCO with the necessary means to fullfill its important mandate and to do it well.