The Director-General of UNESCO condemns attack on Ministry of Culture and Higher Education in Mogadishu, Somalia

UNESCO Director-General has strongly condemned yesterday’s armed attack on the Ministry of Culture and Higher Education in Mogadishu, Somalia, which resulted in the death and injuries of civilians, members of the security forces and Government workers.

“At this juncture, education and culture are among the most powerful resources to bring back hope, normalcy and cohesion within the Somalian society, in particular amongst its young people.  I condemn this vicious attack, as a deliberate attack against all Somalis’ human right to education and access to cultural life. The intentional targeting of education and culture is a war crime - education and culture must be protected and kept out of any conflict”, declared Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO. 

“I extend my deepest condolences to the Government of Somalia, to those who have been affected by this tragedy and to their families. I call on all Somalis to stand united for the protection of their education and culture and renew UNESCO’s commitment to support the Government in its efforts to provide access to quality learning and to culture”, added the Director-General

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