Exploring the Theme of World Book Day 2019: Emphasizing Linguistic and Cultural Diversity
World Book Day, celebrated on April 23rd, is an annual event organized by UNESCO and various other organizations to promote the joy of reading and the importance of books. This celebratory day emphasizes the rich tapestry of books as a vital link between past and future, as well as between cultures and generations.
Global Significance and Historical Context
April 23rd was chosen to honor renowned literary figures such as William Shakespeare, Miguel Cervantes, and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, who all died on this day. The choice to commemorate these figures on this date was made during UNESCO's General Conference in Paris in 1995, which deemed it a fitting tribute to the global significance of books and authors.
Each year, UNESCO selects a World Book Capital to host the celebrations, promoting the importance of reading and writing on a global scale. In 2019, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, was selected as the World Book Capital, succeeding Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in 2020. This selection highlights the significance of recognizing and supporting book cultures across the world.
Theme and Significance for 2019
The theme for World Book Day 2019, as described by Audrey Azoulay, the Director General of UNESCO, underscores the profound impact of books as a form of cultural expression, rooted in a chosen language:
"Books are a form of cultural expression that lives through and as part of a chosen language. Each publication is created in a distinct language and is intended for a language-specific reading audience. A book is thus written, produced, exchanged, used, and appreciated in a given linguistic and cultural setting. This year we highlight this important dimension because 2019 marks the International Year of Indigenous Languages led by UNESCO to reaffirm the commitment of the international community in supporting indigenous peoples to preserve their cultures, knowledge, and rights."
Promoting Literary Diversity and Access to Knowledge
UNESCO aims to champion books and celebrate the diversity and accessibility of knowledge through this day. It serves as a platform for various stakeholders, including authors, publishers, teachers, librarians, and the general public, to come together and promote literacy across the globe. This initiative not only fosters a love for reading but also ensures that all individuals can access educational resources.
International Year of Indigenous Languages
The theme for World Book Day 2019 aligns with the International Year of Indigenous Languages, initiated by UNESCO in 2019. This year was dedicated to reaffirming the commitment of the international community to support indigenous peoples in preserving their unique languages, cultures, and rights. This emphasis on linguistic and cultural diversity is crucial in recognizing the rich heritage and value of different languages worldwide.
By highlighting the importance of indigenous languages, UNESCO encourages the preservation of cultural identities and the promotion of multilingualism. This initiative not only enriches the global literary landscape but also contributes to a more inclusive and culturally diverse society.
In conclusion, the World Book Day 2019 theme emphasizes the intrinsic value of books as a medium for cultural expression and the importance of preserving diverse linguistic and cultural heritages. Through this event, UNESCO aims to celebrate the joy of reading and the rich diversity of the literary world, fostering a more inclusive and knowledge-rich global community.