UNESCO will lead the implementation of the International Decade of Culture for Sustainable Development (2027-2036).
New York, 4 September 2026 – The United Nations General Assembly today proclaimed 2027-2036 as the International Decade of Culture for Sustainable Development, establishing a ten-year global framework to harness culture for more inclusive, resilient and sustainable societies.Initiated by Viet Nam, with the support of a cross-regional group of co-sponsors, and the Group of Friends of Culture, the Decade marks a major step towards placing culture at the heart of the next global development framework. Proposed by the General Conference of UNESCO in its resolution 43 C/41 and introduced as draft resolution A/80/L.102, The resolution co-sponsored by 103 Member States was adopted by a recorded vote of 174 in favor, 1 against and 0 abstention.
The adoption of the Resolution carries particular significance in today’s challenging international context. At a time of, overlapping global crises and mounting pressure on international cooperation, Member States united around a shared conviction: culture can help build common ground and advance sustainable development. The proclamation therefore represents not only a milestone for culture but also an affirmation of multilateralism and the capacity of collective action to deliver on shared global priorities.
