Statement of the UNESCO Director-General on the occasion of International Jazz Day 2026.



Ladies and gentlemen, dear friends, proclaimed by UNESCO in 2011, International Jazz Day marks the 15th anniversary this year. The Jazz Day reflects our conviction that culture plays an essential role in fostering understanding between peoples and the dialogue begins with listening.

The UNESCO creative cities network today counts 84 creative cities of music. Each using music as a vehicle for international cooperation. Music is also a cornerstone of cultures and identities as demonstrated by the many musical practices on the UNESCO representative list of the intangible cultural heritage. UNESCO works with its partners, including the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, to promote culture as a force for sustainability.

This year, the global all-star concert takes place in the iconic lyric opera in Chicago, the hometown of our dear friend and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock. Let us come together in the spirit of jazz for peace and dialogue for all people. I hope to be present with you next year. Enjoy your evening and the art of jazz.

, Khaled El-Enany

UNESCO

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