Launch of the Sustainable Art and Human Development Initiative

H.E. Dr. Hala El-Saeed, Minister of Planning and Economic Development

H.E Dr. Yasmine Fouad, Minister of Environment

Dr. Sherifa Sherif, Executive Director of the National Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development

Ms. Randa Fouad, President of the World Art Forum Foundation for Sustainable Development

Esteemed representatives from the UN, private sector and young artists 

On behalf of the United Nations in Egypt, I am pleased to join the launch of the Sustainable Art and Human Development Initiative – initiated by the World Art Forum Foundation that is led by Ms. Randa Fouad. 

This initiative reflects the journey that started with the First World Art Forum - launched last year – where we proudly were one of the first supporters. Not only it brought together distinguished artists with development practitioners, it also demonstrated the strong interlinkages between Art and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Indeed, one of the main recommendations of the first edition of the World Art Forum identified the need to establish a nation-wide initiative that manifests the role of art in sustainable development efforts, with a special focus on young people. It showed that countries will not be able to achieve the 2023 Agenda and its core principle of ‘leaving-no-one-behind’ – without the inclusion of artists in the design and implementation of development policies and programmes. Their inputs in development will contribute to better and more sustainable development results.

Today, I am delighted to see that these recommendations are being implemented. Indeed, the launch of the Sustainable Art and Human Development Initiative reflects the commitments we made last year.

The new initiative looks at the role of art from an inclusive and sustainable development angle, through the provision of multiple interventions, that invest in the potentials of young artists. These interventions will bring economic benefits at national and local levels by creating jobs and opportunities, attracting investments and generating revenue, in addition to promoting social cohesion through art and culture.

The strength of this initiative is also driven by strong partnerships between the Government, international organizations, private sector and civil society. Such collaboration between divers development stakeholders also guarantees the continuity of the initiative.

I am also proud to see the involvement of multiple UN agencies who prioritize the role of art in addressing sustainable development challenges, including UN Women, UNFPA, UNESCO, IOM and others. Each UN agency – within their own mandate and expertise – promote art and culture as an integral part of attaining sustainable development.

Dear Partners,

Allow me to conclude by stressing the importance of investing in the potential of young artists. Empowering them and giving them spaces is a key to a sustainable future.

I am looking forward to further collaborating, the UN System with the World Art Forum Foundation, together with the Government and private sector partners to strengthen this initiative and to collectively achieve impactful results that foster art and culture as an integral part of sustainable development.

Thank you.

***