Cultural and Linguistic Diversity in Education

	Cultural and Linguistic Diversity in Education
	With a focus on promoting universally shared values and a culturally sensitive diversification of educational contents and methods, UNESCO is working to promote quality education as a fundamental right for all by addressing a broad range of themes, which include respect for cultural and linguistic diversity.

Based upon the principles stated in the UNESCO Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity, adopted by the General Conference of UNESCO at its 31st session (2 November 2001), the Organization has committed itself to supporting Member States wishing to encourage linguistic diversity while respecting the mother tongue at all levels of education, wherever possible, to promote through education an awareness of the positive value of cultural diversity and to make full use of culturally appropriate methods of communication and transmission of knowledge.The quest for quality education today is inextricably bound up with the processes and impact of globalization.

The World Education Forum (Dakar, Senegal, April 2000) where UNESCO was confirmed as the coordinator for Education For All is at the heart of UNESCO’s work during its Medium-Term Strategy 2002-2007, and the Organization has determined education and cultural diversity to be a priority.

UNESCO’s language programme lays out its framework and strategy in this area.