The resolution designates the 2027–2036 period as the International Decade of Culture for Sustainable Development, establishing a long-term framework for countries and the international community to strengthen efforts to integrate culture more fully into development policies.
It designates UNESCO as the lead agency for implementing the Decade, coordinating the development of specific activities, programs, and action plans in collaboration with member states.
In his address, Ambassador Do Hung Viet, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the UN, stressed that culture shapes identity, connects communities, fosters creativity and innovation, and contributes to livelihoods and sustainable development.
He said the International Decade would provide a framework for turning awareness into action, mobilizing political support and resources, strengthening partnerships, and promoting the sharing of knowledge and experience, thereby elevating the role of culture within the global development agenda.
The adoption of the resolution reflects a growing consensus on the pivotal role of culture in advancing the 2030 Agenda. For Vietnam, this outcome marks the success of a sustained effort to propose and promote the initiative at both UNESCO and the UN.
Originating from an idea proposed by Vietnam, the initiative gained widespread support and has evolved into a decade-long UN cooperation framework. It also highlights Vietnam’s growing role in multilateral diplomacy, and its capacity to put forward practical initiatives aligned with the shared interests of the international community.
On X, UNESCO Director-General Khaled El-Enany welcomed the UN General Assembly's adoption of the resolution. Many ambassadors and heads of permanent delegations to UNESCO also congratulated Vietnam on the initiative.
