I THE "SPIRIT OF PARIS" AS INSPIRATION FOR UNESCO

The Philippines and France were founding members of the United Nations in 1945 and have been partners in the promotion of its ideals and objectives. Both countries, working individually and jointly, have sought to create the conditions for a more peaceful and equitable international order based on sovereign equality and respect for human dignity, with collective responsibility at its core.

Indeed, from the very beginnings of the United Nations and the creation of its bodies and mechanisms, the Philippines and France joined forces at crucial and defining moments. The following episodes in multilateral diplomacy are milestones not only in the 70-year relationship between the Philippines and France, but also in the development of the international system as we know it. Filipino-French cooperation played a key role in shaping the norms, aspirations and institutions of the world community and is likewise contributing to sustainable development in the new millennium for future generations to come.

I

THE “SPIRIT OF PARIS” AS INSPIRATION FOR UNESCO

After the widespread destruction of World War II, it was deemed necessary to create an international organization that would construct “the defences of peace”1 in the minds of men through enhancing collaboration among nations in education, science, culture and communication, and information.

In this regard, in 1945 a Conference of Education Ministers held in London, established the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). At the conference, France offered to host the newly created organization in Paris. The Philippine delegate, Dr. Maximo M. Kalaw, then Secretary of Public Instruction and Information, notably stated the following in support of France’s initiative for Paris to be the seat of the Organization:

“…when the Philippines defended their independence against Spain, it was in Paris that their spirit had sought refuge. It was an additional reason for rejoicing in the choice of Paris which has just been made.”2

Since then, both the Philippines and France have been active Member States in support of UNESCO’s important work at Headquarters and in the field. Among global priorities of UNESCO is the promotion of gender equality and empowerment. And in this connection, the very first woman delegate on UNESCO’s Executive Board was Filipina, Senator Geronima Pecson in 1950.