UNESCO. General Conference; 30th; Records ... - unesdoc - Unesco

subprogrammes. But Subprogramme II.2.1 entitled “Earth sciences, earth system management and natural
disaster reduction” appears to be somewhat inadequate in terms of the specification of content and coverage. The
main line of action 2 under this subprogramme which reads “Reducing vulnerability to natural disasters” does not
cover specific natural disasters caused by seas and oceans like tidal bores, windstorms such as tornadoes,
hurricanes and cyclones, or the arsenic effect caused by over-mining of ground water. Millions of people living in
deltaic regions like Bangladesh are victims of these disasters almost every year. The inclusion of these particular
types of natural disasters into the programmes is, therefore, suggested.
I would also like to draw your kind attention to an issue which is of particular interest to countries like
Bangladesh. One of UNESCO’s prime concerns as enunciated in Major Programme IV entitled “Towards a
communication and information society for all” is to collect and disseminate information with a view to enriching
the knowledge base and enhanced participation of member countries in concerned activity areas. As a part of this
programme we strongly recommend inclusion of information regarding skill and knowledge market variables into
the UNESCO activities for collecting and disseminating information. This will be of the utmost utility to member
countries like Bangladesh that suffer from imperfections in the market for skills and knowledge. In the absence of
timely and appropriate information and of an information dissemination mechanism, it is quite common for
underdeveloped countries to have a deficiency of certain types of skills and at the same time a surplus of other
skills. This causes considerable wastage of resources. The inclusion of this area into the domain of information
collection and dissemination activities of UNESCO is therefore suggested so that relevant information flow
within and between Member States is ensured.
Mr President, while Bangladesh does desire, with all earnestness, the successful implementation of all
the programmes and projects designed for 2000-2001, it wishes to put in a word of caution. That is, not to fail to
see the wood for the trees. We must not lose sight of the mission of UNESCO, that is to establish peace through
education and culture. As we enter the twenty-first century the technological gap between the advanced and the
developing countries will tend to increase. We must not allow this great divide to widen. This will create more
tension among different societies, leading to more conflicts, more destruction and more suffering. It should be
UNESCO’s concern not to let this happen. Its programme and budget should be tuned to achieve this mission.
Mr President, in conclusion I would like to reiterate the commitment of Bangladesh to the ideals and
principles of UNESCO. We pledge, as ever before, all support and cooperation to the Organization.
Mr President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, I express my sincere gratitude
for your kind attention and patient hearing. I thank you all.
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