UNESCO - United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

01/09/2025 | News release | Distributed by Public on 01/09/2025 14:24

UNESCO Tehran office Launches Farsi Edition of Award-Winning Picture Book What Makes Us Human

An internationally celebrated picture book. This thought-provoking work is created by Brazilian author Victor D.O. Santos and Italian illustrator Anna Forlati. Victor Santos, a passionate linguist, created What Makes Us Human to convey to his children that language is at the very heart of human identity. Each language, regardless of the number of speakers, is a cultural treasure, embodying traditions, beliefs, and unique worldviews, The book was selected in 2022 by The Unpublished Picture Book Showcase for its dazzling illustrations and powerful narrative. It was also featured in the 2023 Bologna Children's Book Fair and included in The White Ravens 2023 selection of the 200 best children's books worldwide.

Picture Book What Makes Us Human 1
Tuti Books Publication
Linguistic Diversity at Risk: The Urgent Need for Action
By the end of this century, up to 90-95% of the world's spoken languages, many of which are Indigenous, could face extinction or serious endangerment, leaving only 300-600 oral languages unthreatened. Recognizing the urgent need for urgent action, the UN General Assembly declared the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022-2032) through Resolution A/74/396, based on recommendations from the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues. This initiative aims to mobilize Indigenous Peoples, Member States, and global stakeholders to preserve, revitalize, and promote Indigenous languages, fostering sustainable changes in social dynamics and ensuring the survival of these vital cultural treasures. Santos's work aligns with UNESCO's commitment to promoting linguistic diversity as a cornerstone of mutual understanding and human enrichment. Through What Makes Us Human, he contributes to raising awareness about the importance of preserving linguistic diversity for future generations.

Picture Book What Makes Us Human 2
Tuti Books Publication
Protecting Language, Protecting Culture: UNESCO's Commitment to Diversity
The Farsi edition of What Makes Us Human serves as a powerful tool to engage readers particularly children and adolescents, and raise awareness about linguistic diversity. Through vivid illustrations and compelling storytelling, it underscores the importance of protecting the cultural wealth embedded in languages for the benefit of future generations.

UNESCO invites readers of all ages to explore this beautiful book as a testament to our shared humanity. This collaboration highlights the importance of partnerships in promoting cultural and linguistic diversity. By embracing linguistic diversity, we honor the rich tapestry of cultures that make us human and inspire a commitment to safeguarding them for generations to come.

Links:

https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/what-makes-us-human

https://tutibooks.ir/

https://tutibooks.com/