The chairperson of UNESCO’s Executive Board and Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the organization, Dr. Nasser bin Hamad al-Hinzab, emphasized the critical role of education, dialogue, and mutual respect in combating racism, discrimination, and hatred during Pope Leo XIV’s recent visit to UNESCO headquarters in Paris. The visit marked the first papal visit to the agency in over 40 years.
Speaking at the event alongside UNESCO Director-General Dr. Khaled Ahmed El Enany and General Conference President Khondker Mohammad Talha, al-Hinzab highlighted that addressing intolerance goes beyond legal frameworks and requires a cultural and educational approach. He described education as a powerful pillar of peace and underscored the importance of safeguarding children’s and youth’s right to education as essential to protecting human dignity and fostering a more equitable future.
Al-Hinzab said Pope Leo’s presence at UNESCO sends a message of hope amid a world marked by escalating conflicts and divisions. He noted that the visit underscores the importance of listening, safeguarding shared humanity, and promoting values that unite diverse peoples. As a representative of Qatar, al-Hinzab stressed his country's commitment to dialogue and intercultural understanding.
He called this moment an opportunity for the international community to reaffirm what can be achieved through dialogue rather than division, and through understanding rather than exclusion. Al-Hinzab urged increased global efforts to confront racism, intolerance, and discrimination, citing their damaging impact on human dignity and social cohesion.
Al-Hinzab further emphasized that every individual, regardless of origin, religion, or culture, has a right to live with dignity and to participate fully in their community and shared humanity. He said the international community bears a shared responsibility toward future generations, particularly in ensuring that young people receive education that equips them with knowledge, confidence, and opportunity to build a better world.
He reinforced that education is not only a fundamental human right but also a foundational element for peace. Al-Hinzab stated that no child should be deprived of schooling or the hope that education offers. The responsibility lies in protecting this right and fostering environments where children and youth can realize their potential without discrimination.
Expressing hope that the Pope’s visit will strengthen global commitments to dialogue, education, human dignity, and peace, al-Hinzab called for renewed determination to counter racism and discrimination and to safeguard every child’s access to education regardless of identity, origin, or belief.