Celebrating Unity: UNESCO connected people from all walks of life in Pakistan on UN Day 2024

To commemorate the 79^th anniversary of the United Nations (UN), UNESCO proudly connected people in Pakistan in a public event at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) on 26 October 2024. This year's one-day public event, first-of-its-kind to celebrate the UN Day in Islamabad, attracted over 10,000 visitors and emphasized the importance of international cooperation and the UN's continued relevance in addressing global and country challenges.

UNESCO's stall was a vibrant hub of activity, attracting a diverse audience eager to learn more about the organization's mission and initiatives. The stall featured several interactive activities relating to education, culture, sciences, communication and information organized by UNESCO to engage visitors of all ages.

A popular attraction at the stall, where visitors donned props of traditional caps and headdresses representing Pakistan's diverse provinces. Participants shared their pictures on social media, creating a lively atmosphere and promoting cultural pride.

A prominently displayed heritage board invited participants to share their thoughts and messages about cultural heritage and community. Attendees wrote personal reflections and aspirations on sticky notes, visually representing shared values and experiences related to cultural diversity.

The drawing board was viral among children, who eagerly participated in drawing activities. Attendees were invited to showcase their artistic talents, resulting in a vibrant mural inspired by UNESCO's core themes of peace, education, and cultural diversity. As children and adults contributed their creativity, the artwork became a beautiful tapestry symbolizing unity and collective creativity.

The interactive puzzle featuring UNESCO's logo captivated attendees of all ages. Participants engaged enthusiastically, working together to piece it together while learning about UNESCO's mission to get people united. Many received souvenirs, making the experience fun and educational.

A digital display showcased biosphere reserves, cultural sites, and heritage preservation efforts in Pakistan and globally. Visitors participated in an engaging quiz about UNESCO's cultural heritage initiatives, earning small rewards for their participation.

A specially designed cutout board showcased UNESCO's work in media and information literacy. This interactive display highlighted the importance of critical thinking and responsible media consumption in today's digital age. Participants engaged with the board, learning about various media and information literacy programmes aimed at empowering individuals to navigate information responsibly, sparking important conversations on the significance of media and information literacy in fostering informed communities and in combating disinformation and misinformation.

Attendees were provided with a diverse selection of publications from UNESCO's four sectors - education, culture, sciences, and communication and information. These materials included informative brochures, reports, and educational resources, providing valuable insights into UNESCO's initiatives and the importance of these sectors in fostering sustainable development. Distributing these publications helped raise awareness and promote further engagement with UNESCO's work.

Small souvenirs were distributed to participants to emphasize the key themes of the event. Attendees received seed balls to promote tree planting and raise awareness about climate change, bookmarks featuring UNESCO heritage sites to inspire interest in safeguarding cultural heritage, and pens symbolizing the importance of education. These thoughtful gifts served to reinforce UNESCO's commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

UNESCO's participation also highlighted the importance of promoting Pakistan's rich cultural heritage. The stall was adorned with large flags representing various provinces and colorful decorations that added a festive touch. A UNESCO media wall invited visitors to capture memorable moments, further enhancing engagement.

The UN Day 2024 event was a resounding success, bringing together community members, media, and stakeholders to celebrate the ideals of the United Nations. The festivities provided an opportunity for participants to reflect on the importance of unity and collaboration in achieving a better world.

Through its participation in UN Day 2024, UNESCO reinforced its commitment to fostering international cooperation and inspiring individuals to contribute to a sustainable future. The event not only showcased UNESCO's initiatives in Pakistan and globally but also celebrated the collective efforts of individuals and communities in promoting peace, cultural diversity, and education.

UNESCO looks forward to continuing its work in Pakistan and globally, empowering communities and individuals to realize the vision of a world united in diversity.