Moldova candidacy for UNESCO executive board seat
The Republic of Moldova is reaffirming its steadfast commitment to peace, democracy, and human dignity at the UNESCO platform.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mihai Popșoi, highlighted the crucial importance of international cooperation and the role of multilateral diplomacy during a period of major global challenges and transformation. His remarks came at the 43rd session of the General Conference, currently underway in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
The head of Moldovan diplomacy stated unequivocally: "Peace is not an abstract concept – it is the foundation of UNESCO's mandate." Furthermore, he stressed that the Republic of Moldova's commitment to these principles is "deep and unwavering."
Minister Popșoi then strongly condemned Russia's war against Ukraine, noting its devastating impact on humanity and the international order. Consequentially, he emphasized that missions focused on refugees must prioritize protecting children and guaranteeing their access to education and social services.
In a world facing intensifying disinformation campaigns, Popșoi underscored the vital role of UNESCO in promoting education, fostering critical thinking, and protecting press freedom. "In times of crisis and uncertainty," he stressed, "truth and education become the most powerful instruments for defending democracy."
In a key development, the Republic of Moldova has for the first time ever officially submitted its candidacy for a seat on the UNESCO Executive Board. Minister Popșoi asserted that "small states also have a voice," and expressed the nation's readiness to actively contribute to strengthening the organization and advancing its fundamental values.
The UNESCO Executive Board, which is responsible for preparing the General Conference’s work and overseeing its decisions, consists of representatives from 58 member states across six regional groups.
Crucially, the Republic of Moldova belongs to the second regional group, the Eastern Europe Group. It is seeking one of the three four-year mandates currently held by Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Lithuania. This historic bid marks the first time Moldova has campaigned for this influential position.
Historian Sergiu Mustață, Secretary-General of the National Commission of the Republic of Moldova for UNESCO, told Radio Moldova that he is confident in the country's chances of securing this vote of confidence.
"This is a novelty for the foreign policy of the Republic of Moldova, for our diplomacy, and for the country's representation in the international bodies and institutions we have been part of for more than 30 years," the historian concluded during the "Zi de Zi" (Day by Day) program.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
