March 21—World Poetry Day
World Poetry Day, celebrated annually on March 21st, is a day dedicated to poetry, one of humanity's most treasured forms of cultural and linguistic expression. Established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) during its 30th session held in Paris in 1999 (30 C/Resolution 29), the day aims to support linguistic diversity through poetic expression, increase the opportunity for endangered languages to be heard, and encourage a return to the oral tradition of poetry recitals.
Poetry is a powerful form of artistic expression that transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries. It plays a significant role in preserving and communicating various cultures' histories, values, and philosophical concepts. On World Poetry Day, UNESCO encourages member states to actively support poets, particularly those who use endangered languages, as part of their commitment to cultural diversity and freedom of speech.
World Poetry Day is also designed to promote reading, writing, publishing, and teaching poetry. This initiative aligns with UNESCO's broader objectives of fostering cultural expression and encouraging literacy and education. Poetry can be a valuable educational tool, helping children and adults alike to develop a love for language, enhance their linguistic abilities, and appreciate other cultures' perspectives and experiences.
As part of the World Poetry Day celebration, UNESCO encourages the return to the oral tradition of poetry recitals. This tradition, which dates back to ancient times, allows for a more engaging and immersive experience of poetry. It underlines the performance aspects of poetry, emphasizes the sound and rhythm of the spoken language, and encourages communal participation.
World Poetry Day offers an opportunity to raise the profile of poetry, and acknowledge the contributions of poets to cultural diversity and human expression. It's a day to celebrate poetry's power to capture the human spirit, inspire change, and bring people together across cultures and languages.
World Poetry Day, as established by UNESCO's 30 C/Resolution 29, plays a crucial role in celebrating poetry, promoting cultural and linguistic diversity, and encouraging the teaching and learning of this timeless form of expression. As we celebrate this day, we are reminded of poetry's enduring power to enrich our lives, foster a sense of shared humanity, and contribute to a more inclusive and understanding world.
Leyli MURADOVA,
1st year student of the faculty of International Journalism of the
Institute of International Relations of the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan.