On november 2, 2001, the UNESCO adopted the Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity. For the first time, a declaration acknowledged cultural diversity as a « common heritage of humanity » and considered its protection to be « a concrete and ethical imperative inseparable from respect for human dignity ».

Following this declaration, the United Nations General Assembly have proclaimed May 21 « World day for cultural diversity for dialogue and development ».

A day for reflexion, a day to improve our « living together », and to deepen our understanding of each culture’s contributions, uniqueness, synergy and solidarity. Another objective of this day is to raise the crucial relationship between culture and development, as well as the fundamental part played by information and communication technologies in this relationship.

Also evolving around the Word Day for Cultural Diversity: the International Festival for Cultural Diversity (May 17-26, 2010), organized by the UNESCO. It calls upon everyone, and takes place in Paris, Beijing, Montreal, Fes, Guangdong, Fabriano, Shenzhen and more.

The programme includes concerts, screening, exhibitions, theater, danse shows, round tables, etc.