France.- During the 221st session of the UNESCO Executive Council, the Dominican Republic, represented by Ambassador Larissa Veloz, reaffirmed its commitment to multilateralism, sustainable development, education, and freedom of expression. Ambassador Veloz addressed the challenges facing the world today, including armed conflicts, climate crises, social inequalities, and the ethical risks of technological advancement, stressing the critical role of UNESCO in guiding a more just and inclusive future.
One of the Dominican Republic’s key contributions highlighted during the session was the strengthening of the UNESCO Associated Schools Network (RedPEA), with the organization of a regional meeting in 2024 titled “Strengthening the UNESCO Associated Schools Network for a Sustainable and Peaceful Future.” Additionally, Veloz emphasized support for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), calling for clearer fund mobilization and recognizing their potential as innovation hubs.
The Ambassador also announced that the Dominican Republic will host the “Third AI Ethics Summit in Latin America and the Caribbean,” underlining the country’s push for ethical policies in artificial intelligence. She further highlighted the creation of the “RD-UNESCO Journalist” award, recognizing journalists who promote freedom of expression.
Veloz expressed concern about potential cuts to UNESCO’s regular budget, warning of the negative impact on critical programs such as education, climate action, and culture. Concluding her remarks with a quote from Aristotle, “Excellence is not an act, but a habit,” she called on UNESCO Member States to make excellence the core principle of the organization’s actions in these transformative times.
The Dominican Republic was re-elected to the UNESCO Executive Council, serving a term that concludes in 2027.
