POST – RELEASE——Young people from 32 countries gathered in Almaty to discuss Artificial Intelligence in education

On August 13, 2024, the Third International UNESCO Model on the topic of “Ethics of the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Education” took place in Almaty, Kazakhstan, under the chairmanship of Kazakhstan in the World Federation of Clubs and Associations for UNESCO. This large-scale event, held under the patronage of UNESCO, gathered 53 youth delegates representing 32 countries.

Over the past seven years, the UNESCO Model, one of the Federation’s largest educational projects, has expanded from a city-level to an international platform, becoming a regular venue for youth from around the world to exchange views.

As part of the cultural program, on the first day, delegates visited the Shymbulak Mountain Resort, adding a unique cultural context to their educational experience. The trip provided participants with the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque scenery of the Trans-Ili Alatau.

At the end of the second day’s program, winners were determined in the following categories:

  • Best Idea and Approach: Turkmenistan, Abdyleziz Saryyev
  • Best Speaker: Egypt, Naima Umiryayeva
  • Best Presentation: Malaysia, Nadzratul Insyirah Binti Muhammad Nazomi

Bolat Akchulakov, President of the World and Kazakh Federation of Clubs for UNESCO, noted in his opening speech: “With the development of technology, it is important to consider ethical aspects and ensure that AI serves to improve education while adhering to the highest standards of fairness and integrity. I am confident that the Third International UNESCO Model is a platform for important discussions and the development of innovative ideas to address the ethical challenges of AI in education”.

“Taking part in the international UNESCO Model has been an exceptionally unique experience for me. The event united young people from diverse cultures and viewpoints, and the synergy we achieved was truly remarkable. Participants from all over the world exhibited warmth and openness. I genuinely hope that the friendships we built here will endure despite the distances between our countries,” said Lam Tai Yin, a participant from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China.

The main goal of the event was to deepen knowledge and understanding of UNESCO’s work on global challenges and key priorities among participants.

The organizer of the Third International Model UNESCO “Ethics of the use of Artificial Intelligence in Education” is the World and Kazakhstan Federations of Clubs and Associations for UNESCO in collaboration with the UNESCO Regional Office in Almaty, supported by the National Commission of the Republic of Kazakhstan for UNESCO and ICESCO, and the Shymbulak Mountain Resort.

 

Link to photos from the event: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1tSDYI4coAa5Q0yjvI5L5jGHBcRQlfOR8?usp=sharing

 

For additional information and media accreditation, please contact: Aisana Miram, +7(778) 219-69-02 (available on WhatsApp),  pr.kazfuca@gmail.com

WFUCA partners with BONJOUR BRAND to launch – Global Youth Creativity Support Program

The 10th Bonjour Brand Forum was held at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris on June 21st, with the theme “The Standing of Brands on the Global Stage”. This forum focused on brand culture, culture-driven innovation, and brand globalization. It facilitated dialogue among over 500 leaders from the Sino-French political and business communities, as well as CEOs, CMOs of leading global brands, renowned creatives, media representatives, and opinion leaders, promoting brand collaboration and cultural innovation.

The year 2024 marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France and the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism. The Bonjour Brand Forum, initiated in 2014, has now reached its 10th edition. Over the past decade, Bonjour Brand Forum has provided a platform for cultural dialogue and innovative cooperation through various activities in both China and France. The forum commenced with an opening speech by its honorary chairman, former French Prime Minister and President of the “Fondation Prospective et Innovation”, Jean-Pierre RAFFARIN: “Design is a commitment for brands, a reflection of brand identity, and a channel for cross-border communication. The role of design is crucial for the brands; design is culture, and the brand creates communication. It has been a privilege to accompany the Bonjour Brand Forum for ten years, witnessing the development of design and brands between China and France, as well as Jing YANG’s achievements in fostering creative cooperation between the two countries over the past decade.”

In this context, Bonjour Brand and the World Federation of UNESCO Clubs and Associations (WFUCA) announced the launch of the “Bonjour Youth” – Global Youth Creativity Support Program during the forum. This program aims to create a global support platform by collaborating with cities and brands worldwide. It seeks to provide young people with opportunities in design, creativity, technology, and the arts, fostering and nurturing their innovative capabilities. By using creativity to facilitate cultural dialogue between different countries, the program aims to promote cooperation and development in the design and creative industries worldwide.

President Jing YANG said at the project’s launch: “For over ten years, Bonjour Brand has been dedicated to fostering creative cooperation between China and Europe. We hope that through this collaboration with WFUCA, young people will be able to find their future and discover more possibilities.”

Sunjoo LEE, President of the Asian-Pacific Federation of Clubs and Associations for UNESCO, delivered a speech at the signing ceremony. She stated: “It is a great pleasure for me to welcome all of you to this great signing ceremony. The partnership between Bonjour Brand and WFUCA signifies profound synergy, where our collaborative effort will amplify the voice of diverse cultures, encourage people to harness creative talent worldwide, and we will be dedicated to advancing UNESCO’s ideals, advocating peace, education, science, and culture.”

“Bonjour Brand, with its commitment to cultural enrichment, perfectly complements our mission. As we embark on this journey together, we anticipate numerous opportunities to showcase and celebrate richness and cultural diversity. Our collaboration will pave the way for innovative projects, cultural exchanges, and creative initiatives. By leveraging the strengths of and inspiring both WFUCA and Bonjour Brand, we will create a vibrant ecosystem of natural creativity, foster mutual understanding, and promote cultural dialogue. As we sign this agreement today, let us remember, that we are forging a bond that will resonate across the world. Together, we will champion cultural diversity, ensuring that it remains a source of inspiration, unity, and strength. Let us look forward to a future filled with creative collaborations and cultural celebrations.”

Afterward, President Jing YANG and Daniela POPESCU, Vice President of WFUCA, signed the agreement on-site. Ms. POPESCU then delivered a speech saying: “On behalf of WFUCA, I would like to thank you all for your warm welcome. It is an honor for us to become future partners with Mr. President YANG.”

“The concepts of Yin and Yang originate from Chinese philosophy and metaphysics. They describe how seemingly opposing forces can be complementary, interconnected, and interdependent in the natural world, and how they can give rise to each other in their relationship. Welcome to our WFUCA and the embodiment of the Yin-Yang concept. Let us celebrate creativity, innovation, and the joys of creating together.”

The signing ceremony was witnessed by former French Prime Minister Jean-Pierre RAFFARIN; YANG Xinyu, Ambassador of the Permanent Delegate of China to UNESCO; DU Yue, Secretary-General of World Federation of UNESCO Clubs and Associations; and Andrei Chevelev, Ex-head of the Asia-Pacific Unit Sector for Priority Africa and External Relations of UNESCO.

The ceremony was also attended by Anne-Marie SARGUEIL, President of Institut Français du Design; Clement DEROCK, President of the Intuit Lab School; and Chinese brand representative Pechoin.

The first “WFUCA Academy for Women” was organized successfully

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the first WFUCA Academy for Women took place on 7th March, which was co-organized by the Romanian Federation and the Greek Federation, through the Piraeus and Islands Club for UNESCO (Greece) and the Alumnus Club for UNESCO (Romania). The first WFUCA Academy for Women is an online art presentation on the theme of “Equality”. National federations, clubs, and associations for UNESCO as well as their partners, and artists, in different parts of the world were invited to participate. This theme was chosen to take into account the recently concluded World Conference on Education through Culture and the Arts, organized in Abu Dhabi by UNESCO and the Government of the United Arab Emirates.

In the third millennium, in an era of contradictions, women still need many changes to avoid discrimination. This is what was attempted through the online exhibition EQUALITY, from March 7, a new perspective and new solutions through the exchange of ideas to combat discrimination and violence by creating (pro) attitudes against extremism of all kinds, partnerships and solidarity networks through the arts, based on understanding, dialogue, cooperation and peace. In the opening, more than 110 participants from all corners of the world were treated to an emotional micro-recital by the lyric artist, Hlín Leifsdóttir (Iceland), who chose to sing one of the famous songs “O sole mio”.

Messages were sent at the opening of the works, which emphasized the importance of the event and of International Women’s Day:

Ms Assel Utegenova, Liaison Officer and Focal point for Associations and Clubs for UNESCO at the UNESCO Secretariat:

“As we commemorate International Women’s Day, allow me to emphasize UNESCO’s unwavering commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment. With its fundamental values grounded in human dignity, diversity and inclusion, UNESCO considers gender equality as the cornerstone of its principles, fostering dialogue, participation and ensuring the equal representation of women in all areas and at all levels, including within National Commissions, Clubs and Associations for UNESCO. By promoting inclusive governance structures and advocating for equal opportunities for all, we uphold the values of peace and sustainability and contribute to the vitality of societies for generations to come.”

Mr. Bolat Akchulakov, WFUCA President:

“Gender equality is not just a concept, but the foundation on which UNESCO stands. It is an essential element of our global mission, deeply rooted in the values we hold. The World Federation is committed to harnessing the transformative power of projects in the fields of education and culture in order to remove down barriers that hinder gender equality.
Through initiatives such as the Academy of Women, we strive to illuminate the path towards a world that is more inclusive and just, where the contributions of women are celebrated and recognized in all aspects of life.
The participation of member countries in this project demonstrates unity and shared commitment to the realization of our vision of gender equality.
As we gather here today, it also marks a significant occasion to extend my heartfelt greetings on International Women’s Day. This is an important day to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of women and stand together as a united front, working towards gender equality around the globe.”

Ms.Daniela Popescu, WFUCA Vice president Ioanis Maronitis WFUCA Ex.Board:

“Intercultural education, propelled also by clubs and associations for UNESCO, started from the idea that in a rapid globalization of societies, there are great barriers and cultural gaps between groups of people and often the differences create conflicts or aggressions. Through the Women’s Academy WFUCA will try to educate the public on these issues; differences are not essential, cultures can coexist, and from acceptance of diversity we can progress toward communication, intercultural dialogue, and partnership. It is necessary to accept the values of another culture and to accept the idea that we now live in a mobile, multicultural society that is constantly improving”

The two moderators of the event, were Mrs. Daniela Popescu, WFUCA vice president, and Mr. Ioannis Maronitis, member of WFUCA EX. Board, helped by Mrs. Antonia Founti, the curator of the exhibition, tried to create a bridge of dialogue and cultures, helped by artists from all continents of the world. Moreover, Mr. Ioanis Maronitis announced the opening of the EQUALITY exhibition with posters of works from over 50 countries, this summer in Greece, with the handing out of participation diplomas at this first major WFUCA event dedicated to women.

Réunion en ligne relative aux associations et clubs pour l’UNESCO et au programme jeunessede l’UNESCO

La « Réunion en relative aux associations et clubs pour l’UNESCO et au Programme Jeunesse de l’UNESCO » s’est tenue le 29 février 2024. Cette rencontre a réuni plus de 150 représentants des Commissions nationales pour l’UNESCO, du Secrétariat de l’UNESCO et des membres de la Fédération mondiale des associations et clubs pour l’UNESCO (FMACU).

La séance a débuté par un accueil chaleureux de la part de M. Dov Lynch, Chef de la Section des relations avec les États membres, du Secteur pour la Priorité Afrique et les Relations extérieures. M. Lynch a souligné le rôle essentiel des efforts de collaboration entre les États membres, les associations et clubs et le Secrétariat.

En outre, Mme Assel Utegenova, Chargée de liaison et point focal pour les associations et clubs pour l’UNESCO, Unité des Commissions nationales et des bourses, a fourni aux participants une mise à jour sur les dernières réglementations de l’UNESCO. Elle a également présenté le calendrier 2024 des événements importants pour le mouvement des clubs, soulignant l’engagement de l’Organisation à favoriser un environnement qui encourage la participation active des jeunes. Sa présentation a souligné la nécessité d’activités davantage axées sur l’engagement des jeunes dans divers secteurs, présentant le mouvement des Clubs comme un partenaire clé dans la mobilisation des jeunes.

En outre, M. Bolat Akchulakov, Président de la FMACU, a présenté les priorités de travail pour 2024 en mettant l’accent sur le développement de la « Stratégie jeunesse des associations et des clubs pour l’UNESCO 2024-2030 : Construire ensemble un avenir durable ». qui sera développé lors du Forum mondial de la jeunesse des associations et clubs de l’UNESCO, vise à exploiter le potentiel d’innovation des jeunes en tant que moteurs du changement.

« Les jeunes ne sont pas seulement les dirigeants de demain ; ce sont des acteurs du changement, qui stimulent l’innovation et le progrès au sein de nos communautés et au-delà. Où qu’ils résident, les jeunes doivent être des membres à part entière de leurs communautés et des agents du changement », a souligné M. Bolat Akchulakov.

Au cours de son discours, il a rassuré les représentants des Commissions nationales, qui n’ont pas encore de Fédération ou de Clubs en général, que la FMACU est toujours ouverte à coopérer et prête à fournir toute l’assistance possible pour impliquer les pays dans le mouvement des Clubs afin d’unir les efforts pour atteindre les objectifs clés de l’UNESCO.

Dans la partie suivante de la réunion, Mme Souria Saad-Zoi, Cheffe de la Section jeunesse du Secteur des sciences sociales et humaines, a présenté le Programme jeunesse de l’UNESCO, y compris les résultats du 13e Forum des jeunes de l’UNESCO, qui a vu la participation de plus de 140 représentants de la jeunesse du monde entier.

Mme Saad-Zoi a évoqué l’engagement de longue date de l’UNESCO en faveur de l’autonomisation des jeunes, reconnaissant les avantages significatifs que les jeunes ont tirés des actions de l’UNESCO au fil des années. Elle a souligné les efforts actifs de l’Organisation pour garantir que les voix des jeunes soient entendues et valorisées, renforçant ainsi leur importance pour façonner l’avenir.

Les organisateurs de la réunion en ligne expriment leur profonde gratitude à tous les participants pour leurs précieuses contributions et leur participation active. La réunion marque une avancée significative dans le renforcement de la collaboration entre l’UNESCO, les Commissions nationales et les associations et clubs pour l’UNESCO, établissant une trajectoire positive pour la réalisation d’objectifs communs.

Online Meeting on Associations and Clubs for UNESCO and UNESCO’s Youth Programme

“Online Meeting on Associations and Clubs for UNESCO and UNESCO’s Youth Programme” was held on February 29, 2024. This gathering brought together over 150 representatives of the National Commissions for UNESCO, UNESCO Secretariat and members of the World Federation of Associations and Clubs for UNESCO (WFUCA).
The session commenced with a warm welcome from Mr. Dov Lynch, Chief of the Section for Relations with Member States, Sector for Priority Africa and External Relations. Mr. Lynch emphasized the critical role of collaborative efforts among Member States, Associations and Clubs and the Secretariat.
Additionally, Ms. Assel Utegenova, Liaison Officer and Focal Point for Associations and Clubs for UNESCO, National Commissions and Fellowships Unit, provided participants with an update on the latest UNESCO regulations. She also presented the 2024 Calendar of important events for the Clubs movement, highlighting the Organization’s commitment to fostering an environment that encourages the active participation of youth. Her presentation stressed the need for activities that are more focused on youth engagement across various sectors, showcasing the Clubs movement as a key partner in mobilizing young people.
Furthermore, Mr. Bolat Akchulakov, President of WFUCA, outlined the 2024 priorities of work with a focus on the development of the “Youth Strategy of Associations and Clubs for UNESCO 2024-2030: Building a sustainable future together”. This strategy, set to be developed during the Global Youth Forum of Associations and Clubs for UNESCO Leaders, aims to harness the innovative potential of young people as drivers of change.
“Youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are change-makers, driving innovation and progress within our communities and beyond. Wherever they reside, youth should be full members of their communities and agents of change,” noted Mr. Bolat Akchulakov.
During his speech, he reassured the representatives of the National Commissions, who do not yet have a Federation or Clubs in general, that WFUCA is always open to cooperate and ready to provide every possible assistance to involve countries in the Clubs movement in order to unite efforts to achieve UNESCO key goals.
In the next part of the meeting, Ms. Souria Saad-Zoi, Chief of the Youth Section within the Social and Human Sciences Sector, presented UNESCO’s Youth Programme, including the outcomes of the 13th UNESCO Youth Forum, which witnessed participation from over 140 youth representatives from around the globe.
Ms. Saad-Zoi elaborated on UNESCO’s longstanding commitment to youth empowerment, acknowledging the significant benefits young people have derived from UNESCO’s actions over the years. She underscored the Organization’s active efforts to ensure that the voices of young people are heard and valued, reinforcing their importance in shaping the future.
Organizers of the online meeting express their profound gratitude to all participants for their invaluable contributions and active participation. The meeting marks a significant step forward in strengthening the collaboration between UNESCO, National Commissions and Associations and Clubs for UNESCO, setting a positive trajectory for the achievement of common goals.

Mrs. Youngshik Kim Participated in the World Conference on Culture and Arts Education 2024

Mrs. Youngshik Kim, Vice-President for the Asia-Pacific Region of the World Federation of UNESCO Clubs and Associations (WFUCA), addressed the participants of the side event “Towards the Implementation of the UNESCO Framework for Culture and Arts Education” during the World Conference on Culture and Arts Education 2024 on February 15th, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), United Arab Emirates.

In her address at the occasion, hosted by the World Alliance for Arts Education (WAAE), World Dance Alliance (WDA), Dance and the Child International (daCi), the International Society for Education through Art (InSEA) and the Porto Santo Charter, Mrs. Kim emphasized the significance of the efforts of member countries of the World Federation in advancing UNESCO’s key priorities. She highlighted the importance of culture and arts education, uniting the efforts of nearly 5000 organizations in 89 countries worldwide.

“Our movement, which was born in 1947 put great attention to the aspects of Culture and Arts Education. In this regard, our civic movement has united around a goal to implement various international projects aimed at the promotion of cultural diversity and arts education approached through different esthetics”,  stated Mrs. Youngshik Kim.

She pointed out several key international projects such as Mitsubishi Asian Children’s Enikki Festa and the International Youth Festival “The Planet of ART”, which promote understanding and interaction between cultures, as well as intercultural dialogue and peace.

In conclusion of her speech, she also outlined that WFUCA strongly believes and invites all stakeholders to unite forces in order to greatly contribute to the design and implementation of new approaches in the development of culture and arts education expertise for a better and more sustainable future.

The 3rd World Conference was held from 13 to 15 February 2024 and provided a space for Member States and diverse actors to update their perspectives on the topic, exchange experiences, and most importantly adopt a “Framework for Culture and Arts Education” that considers not just the “Arts” but also “Culture”, understood in the broadest sense.

This event also united relevant UN agencies, intergovernmental-organizations and UNESCO networks and partners in the field of culture and education to share practices and innovative ideas, as well as strengthen a global alliance for culture and arts education.

“Associations and Clubs for UNESCO as a driving force for a sustainable future”, Partnership’s Hub session of 42nd UNESCO General Conference

On November 16, a special Partnership’s Hub session “Associations and Clubs for UNESCO as a driving force for a sustainable future” was held at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. The event, which brought together online and offline representatives of the movement and stakeholders from different regions of the world, became a platform for discussion on the role of Associations and Clubs in shaping a sustainable society.

The key event of the session was the presentation of the book “United by UNESCO: Associations and Clubs for UNESCO as a driving force for a sustainable future”, initiated by Kazakhstan in cooperation with the UNESCO Secretariat and more than 30 Member States. This publication shows the development of the Clubs movement as one of UNESCO’s oldest partner networks, founded over 75 years ago. It also showcases the important role of volunteer activists worldwide in implementing UNESCO’s vision for the development of an inclusive and sustainable society. The electronic version of the publication is available in English and French by this link.

The event was opened with words of welcome from the Sector for Priority Africa and External Relations of UNESCO, a video message by the President of the World Federation of Clubs and Associations for UNESCO, Mr Bolat Akchulakov, and a welcome speech by the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to UNESCO, H.E. Ambassador Askar Abdrakhmanov.

Furthermore, the lead author of the publication, Dr. Cristina Stanca-Mustea, held a panel discussion with young representatives of the Clubs movement who were also delegates to the 13th UNESCO Youth Forum. Young people shared their experience of participating in the projects of Associations and Clubs for UNESCO in their local communities and expressed their vision for the future development of the movement.

It is hoped that this event will provide impetus for the development of more youth-oriented activities and collaborations within the Clubs movement at all levels.

The video from the event broadcast is available here.

WFUCA addressed at 42nd Session of UNESCO General Conference

Mr. Bolat Akchulakov, President of the World Federation of UNESCO Clubs and Associations (WFUCA), addressed the participants at the general policy debate section of the 42nd session of UNESCO General Conference, Paris.

In his speech, Mr. Akchulakov noted that it was a great honor for him to speak on behalf of one of the oldest UNESCO partner networks. He stressed that the UNESCO Clubs’ Movement, which was established in 1947 and unites today almost five thousand organizations in 90 countries of the world, aims to promote the key priorities and values of the Organization among representatives of civil society.

In the context of the challenges facing the world community, he highlighted that cooperation and joint efforts are becoming key elements for solving global problems.

“Through a variety of cultural and educational events, we aim to unite a significant number of young people worldwide in pursuit of a sustainable future, demonstrating that today, unity is the key to overcoming difficulties” – emphasized Mr. Akchulakov.

As part of the 75th anniversary of the movement, widely celebrated last year, Kazakhstan in collaboration with UNESCO prepared a historical publication summarizing the best experiences and practices of Clubs and Associations for UNESCO. The official presentation is scheduled to take place at UNESCO Headquarters on November 16th, coinciding with the day of Organization’s establishment.

Mr. Akchulakov also outlined the priorities of the World Federation’s work for the next four years, including: strengthening the movement, deepening cooperation with UNESCO and activating youth potential through the formation of leadership potential.

In conclusion of his speech Mr. Bolat Akchulakov expressed a gratitude to UNESCO for its constant assistance and assured that the World Federation of UNESCO Clubs and Associations is aimed at strengthening the organization through the support of priority aims in accordance with the guidelines.

Newsletter: Result of the 10th World Congress of WFUCA / Bulletin d’informations: Résultats du 10e Congrès mondial de la FMACU

The 10th World Congress of the World Federation of UNESCO Clubs and Associations (WFUCA) was held in Seoul, Republic of Korea from October 26 to 29, 2023. This important event gathered over 100 representatives of the UNESCO Clubs Movement from all regions.

The main outcomes of the Congress were:

  1. Adoption of the revised name of the World Federation, in English “World Federation of UNESCO Clubs and Associations (WFUCA)”, in French “Fédération mondiale des associations et clubs UNESCO (FMACU)”, which is identical to the name of the World Federation when it was founded in 1981;
  2. Adoption of the amendments to the Constitution of WFUCA bringing it into compliance with the “Regulatory Framework Regarding Associations, Centres and Clubs for UNESCO”;
  3. Admission of new members including: Azerbaijan, Iran, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan;
  4. Announcement of the Global Initiative of Partnership Establishment;
  5. Adoption of the “Appeal for Global Peace”;
  6. Election of the new Executive Board of WFUCA, including: President, Vice-Presidents, Treasurer, and Members.

In accordance with the results of the election, all new Executive Board members were elected by an absolute majority, as follows:

  • President: Mr. Bolat Akchulakov (Republic of Kazakhstan)
  • Vice-President for Europe Region: Ms. Daniela Popescu (Romania)
  • Vice-President for Latin America and the Caribbean Region: Ms. Katannia Plummer-Mitchell (Jamaica)
  • Vice-President for the Asia-Pacific Region: Ms. Youngshik Kim (Republic of Korea)
  • Vice-President for the African region: Mr. Gabin Ahogbédji Allognon (Republic of Benin)
  • Vice-President for the Arab Region: Mr. Mokhtar Farhat (Republic of Tunisia)
  • Treasurer: Mr. Dzmitry Substelny (Republic of Belarus)
  • Member for Europe Region: Mr. Ioannis Maronitis (Hellenic Republic)
  • Member for Asia-Pacific Region: Mr. Sharifi Nazir (Republic of Tajikistan)
  • Member for African Region: Mr. Augustin Bouda (Burkina-Faso)

The following national federations continue to serve as ex-officio members of Executive Board of WFUCA:

  • Chinese National Federation of Clubs and Associations for UNESCO (CNFUCA)
  • Italian Federation of Associations and Clubs for UNESCO (FICLU)
  • National Federation of Associations for UNESCO in Japan (NFUAJ)
  • Vietnam Federation of Associations for UNESCO (VFUA)

Meanwhile, Mr. Yue Du (People’s Republic of China) was warmly invited to continue his mandate as the Secretary General and lead the daily work of the Secretariat of WFUCA.

Following the election, the participating countries of the Congress expressed hope for the further successful development of the World Federation with the arrival of new leadership.

Mr. Bolat Akchulakov outlined key priorities of WFUCA, emphasizing the need to strengthen and develop Associations and Clubs for UNESCO in all regions of the world, increase their visibility and role in supporting UNESCO’s mandate in local communities, and expand the number of new members. Additionally, there is a desire to deepen collaboration with UNESCO and the governments of member states to jointly implement the World Federation’s key programs.

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Le 10e Congrès mondial de la Fédération mondiale des associations et clubs UNESCO (FMACU) s’est tenu à Séoul, en République de Corée, du 26 au 29 octobre 2023. Cet événement important a rassemblé plus de 100 représentants du Mouvement des clubs UNESCO de toutes les régions.

Les principaux résultats du Congrès sont les suivants

  1. L’adoption du nom révisé de la Fédération mondiale, en anglais ” World Federation of UNESCO Clubs and Associations (WFUCA) “, en français ” Fédération mondiale des associations et clubs UNESCO (FMACU) “, qui est identique au nom de la Fédération mondiale lors de sa fondation en 1981 ;
  2. Adoption des amendements à la Constitution de la FMACU la mettant en conformité avec “le Cadre réglementaire relatif aux associations, centres et clubs pour l’UNESCO” ;
  3. Admission de nouveaux membres dont : Azerbaïdjan, Iran, Kenya, Kirghizistan, Tadjikistan ;
  4. Annonce de l’Initiative mondiale d’établissement de partenariats ;
  5. Adoption de “l’Appel à la paix mondiale” ;
  6. Élection du nouveau conseil exécutif de la FMACU, comprenant : Président, vice-présidents, trésorier et membres.

Conformément aux résultats des élections, tous les nouveaux membres du conseil exécutif ont été élus à la majorité absolue, comme suit :

  • Président : M. Bolat Akchulakov (République du Kazakhstan)
  • Vice-présidente pour la région Europe : Mme Daniela Popescu (Roumanie)
  • Vice-présidente pour la région Amérique latine et Caraïbes : Mme Katannia Plummer-Mitchell (Jamaïque)
  • Vice-présidente pour la région Asie-Pacifique : Mme Youngshik Kim (République de Corée)
  • Vice-président pour la région Afrique : M. Gabin Ahogbédji Allognon (République du Bénin)
  • Vice-président pour la région arabe : M. Mokhtar Farhat (République de Tunisie)
  • Trésorier : M. Dzmitry Substelny (République du Belarus)
  • Membre pour la région Europe : M. Ioannis Maronitis (République hellénique)
  • Membre pour la région Asie-Pacifique : M. Sharifi Nazir (République du Tadjikistan)
  • Membre pour la région Afrique : M. Augustin Bouda (Burkina-Faso)

Les fédérations nationales suivantes continuent d’être membre ex-officio du Conseil Exécutif de la FMACU:

  • Fédération nationale chinoise des associations et clubs pour l’UNESCO (CNFUCA)
  • Fédération italienne des associations et clubs pour l’UNESCO (FICLU)
  • Fédération nationale des associations pour l’UNESCO au Japon (NFUAJ)
  • Fédération vietnamienne des associations pour l’UNESCO (VFUA)

Par ailleurs, M. Yue Du (République populaire de Chine) a été chaleureusement invité à poursuivre son mandat de Secrétaire général et à diriger le travail quotidien du Secrétariat de la FMACU.

Après l’élection, les pays participants au Congrès ont exprimé leur espoir de voir la Fédération mondiale continuer à se développer avec succès grâce à l’arrivée d’un nouveau dirigeant.

M. Bolat Akchulakov a présenté les principales priorités de la FMACU, soulignant la nécessité de renforcer et de développer les associations et les clubs pour l’UNESCO dans toutes les régions du monde, d’accroître leur visibilité et leur rôle dans le soutien du mandat de l’UNESCO au sein des communautés locales, et d’augmenter le nombre de nouveaux membres. En outre, il existe un désir d’approfondir la collaboration avec l’UNESCO et les gouvernements des États membres afin de mettre en œuvre conjointement les programmes clés de la Fédération mondiale.

Cultural and Historical Heritage of Gold Embroidery of Siberia

A large-scale event dedicated to the Siberian gold embroidery traditions and the 300th anniversary of the city of Yekaterinburg took place on August 18, 2023, in the Central City Library in Yekaterinburg. The Catalog “Cultural and Historical Heritage of Gold Embroidery of Siberia” and a new tourist route around the city of Tyumen “Golden Fibre of Siberia” were presented to the participants of the UNESCO Club movement. The participants were welcomed by the Chairman of the Committee for Accreditation of UNESCO Clubs under the Commission of the Russian Federation for UNESCO Mrs. Lyudmila Savicheva, Deputy Minister of Culture of the Sverdlovsk Region Mr. Roman Dorokhin, and Head of the Department of the Ministry of International and Foreign Economic Relations of the region Mr. Dmitry Vaskov. The guests got acquainted with the history of handicrafts, with samples of gold embroidery of the peoples of the Eurasian continent.

Elena Suleymanova, the founder of the Siberian Gold Embroiderers UNESCO Club, spoke about the development of a new project called the National Brand “Golden Thread of Russia”, which will include regions where unique gold embroidery traditions are revived and preserved. Mrs. Suleymanova has participated in the UNESCO Club movement for more than 10 years, representing the Tyumen region and our country at international exhibitions, congresses, and conferences. In 2022, her Club won the All-Russian competition “The Best UNESCO Club of the Russian Federation” in the nomination for the preservation of cultural heritage.