외교부

It is a privilege to join you at the inaugural UNESCO Prize for Global Citizenship Education. I extend my deepest appreciation to UNESCO and all partners gathered here today, and I warmly congratulate this year’s laureates for their remarkable achievements. Korea is honored to have worked with UNESCO in establishing this meaningful prize.

We meet at a moment of profound global turbulence. Continuing threats to human rights and peace are testing our collective resilience. In such times, Global Citizenship Education is not merely desirable—it is indispensable. It cultivates in learners a deep appreciation of universal human values and the responsibility required to engage thoughtfully with the global challenges of our time.

First introduced through the UN’s Global Education First Initiative in 2012, GCED has become a crucial framework for nurturing citizens who understand peace, human rights, and cultural diversity. Korea has consistently advanced this agenda. We led the adoption of the Education 2030 Incheon Declaration, and this year marks the 10th anniversary of the International Conference on Global Citizenship Education, co-hosted with APCEIU. These efforts reflect Korea’s enduring commitment to strengthening GCED worldwide.

Today’s ceremony is more than an award presentation. It signals the international community’s renewed resolve to advance SDG Target 4.7, ensuring that all learners acquire the knowledge and values essential for sustainable development and global citizenship.

To the laureates: your work gives this vision life. Your practical contributions expand the horizon of what GCED can achieve and inspire future generations to become mature global citizens. I encourage you to continue leading as agents of change, helping build a world anchored in empathy, dignity, and shared responsibility.

Korea will remain a committed partner in promoting GCED and will continue working closely with UNESCO to advance this vital mission.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Please join me once again in congratulating our distinguished laureates.