Monaco joins celebrations of International Francophonie Day at UNESCO

Journée internationale de la Francophonie à l'UNESCO © DR

At the invitation of the Group of Francophone Ambassadors of UNESCO (GAFU), the Principality took part in celebrations marking International Francophonie Day at UNESCO headquarters in Paris on 13 May 2025.

The day began with a conference devoted to the twentieth anniversary of the 2005 Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, to which Monaco has been a Party since 2006. During the event, speakers stressed the importance of the Convention and the progress made in areas such as promoting gender equality, the status of female artists and support for the culture industry, notably in Africa. The vital role played by GAFU – of which the Principality is a member – in implementing this Convention at the international level was also highlighted.

In addition, the event showcased several projects supported by the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD), which was set up by the Convention and to which the Principality contributes. Featured projects included Africadoc (Côte d’Ivoire) and Prod’It (Tunisia), both helping to strengthen the cultural sector in their respective countries.

The celebrations concluded with a tasting of “Francophone flavours”, extolling the culinary diversity of the member states represented. Monaco showcased barbajuans, filled pastries that symbolise the country’s culinary heritage.