UNESCO Director-General welcomes the awarding of the 2016 Nobel Peace Prize to Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos
Calderón
Paris,7 October—“The decision of the Nobel Prize Committee to honor President Juan Manuel Santos Calderón and the
historic Colombian peace initiative sends a resounding message to rally for peace, across the continent and around the
world,” said UNESCO Director-General Irina Bokova.
“In a country torn by 5 decades of war, displacement and immense suffering, this Prize reminds all that peace can be
achieved. This Prize also pays tribute to the audacity and perseverance of President Santos and all those who seek to
build peace every day, step by step to heal the wounds of the country, in their families and communities. This is a
message of hope and an invitation for all to renew their commitment for peace. It resonates at the heart of UNESCO's
action to uphold human dignity, dialogue and mutual respect.
“UNESCO stands by the people of Colombia and is more determined than ever to support all Colombians on their way
forward.”