Remarks by H.E. Ambassador Roksanda Ninčić, Permanent Delegate of the Republic of Serbia to UNESCO, at the Plenary debate of the 221st session of the Executive Board

"Madam Chairperson of the Executive Board,

Madam Director-General,

Madam President of the General Conference,

Excellencies, distinguished colleagues,

It is a distinct honor to address this esteemed body on behalf of the Republic of Serbia during the 221st session of the Executive Board of UNESCO. I wish to express our sincere appreciation to the Director-General and her team for their continued leadership and unwavering commitment to the values of this unique organization.

We meet today in a time of deep transformation. The world is facing complex and interconnected crises, armed conflicts and humanitarian emergencies, the erosion of multilateralism, climate change, digital disruption, threats to cultural heritage, and persistent inequalities in access to education and information. These challenges not only test our resilience but demand renewed solidarity, dialogue, and cooperation principles that lie at the heart of UNESCO's mission.

In this rapidly evolving global landscape, UNESCO remains more relevant than ever. Its cross-cutting mandate in education, science, culture, communication, and information offers powerful tools to help shape inclusive, peaceful, and sustainable societies.

In the field of education, Serbia fully supports UNESCO's leading role in shaping the global education agenda. As we look toward the implementation of the Futures of Education vision, we must invest in resilient and inclusive education systems, promote lifelong learning, and ensure that no one is left behind, especially in times of crisis and disruption. Serbia remains committed to advancing digital education and teacher training, while preserving the humanistic foundations of learning.

We must be reminded that culture is not merely a heritage of the past, but a force for peace and development in the present. The safeguarding of cultural heritage, both tangible and intangible, is a collective responsibility. Serbia has consistently worked with UNESCO to protect cultural diversity and promote intercultural dialogue. Therefore, we have actively participated in the MONDICULT2025 regional consultations and we are looking forward to continuing fruitful discussions with Member States during this Executive Board and in Barcelona in September this year. Serbia stands firmly in support of efforts to strengthen UNESCO's normative instruments in this field and to enhance their implementation, especially in conflict and post-conflict situations.

Science and innovation must be placed at the service of humanity. UNESCO's initiatives in open science, water security, and the ethics of artificial intelligence are vital to ensuring that progress does not come at the expense of our shared values. Serbia particularly welcomes the advancement of the Recommendation on the Ethics of Al and calls for its widespread implementation through capacity-building and international cooperation. The recent Global Ministerial Dialogue on Science Diplomacy was an important milestone in tackling global challenges in a world of disruptive technologies. During this event, on one of the ministerial roundtables, the Minister of Science, Technological Development and Innovation of the Republic of Serbia Ms. Jelena Begovic, pointed out that science diplomacy has a crucial role to play in ensuring global collaboration, reducing disparities and upholding of shared values, even in times of geopolitical uncertainty.

We recognize the importance of promoting freedom of expression, media development, and access to information. In an era of growing disinformation and polarization, UNESCO's work in defending the safety of journalists and fostering digital literacy is indispensable for the health of our democracies.

Madam Chairperson, Excellencies,

In the field of division and uncertainty, UNESCO serves as a bridge between peoples and cultures, between tradition and innovation, between crisis and opportunity. The Republic of Serbia reaffirms its full support to the Organization and remains committed to working with all Member States to strengthen our shared multilateral house.

Let us seize this moment to reaffirm our collective responsibility: to protect humanity's common goods, to foster a culture of peace, and to equip present and future generations with the knowledge, values, and tools they need to thrive in a changing world.

Thank you."