March 21 marks World Poetry Day

CAIRO – 21 March 2022: World Poetry Day is celebrated annually on March 21.

The celebration aims to revive poetry; promote reading, writing, publishing and teaching poetry all over the world, and renews recognition of this magical way of expression, giving impetus to national, regional and international poetic movements.

During its 13th session held in Paris in 1999, the General Conference of UNESCO named March 21 the World Poetry Day, with the aim of supporting linguistic diversity, and giving endangered languages more opportunities to be used.

World Poetry Day is an opportunity to honor poets and revive the oral tradition of poetry evenings.

According to UNESCO, poetry is a form of expression and a manifestation of linguistic and cultural identity. Since ancient times, all continents with their various cultures have known poetry, as it addresses the human values shared by all peoples. Poetry transforms the simple words into a great catalyst for dialogue and peace.

UNESCO encourages Member States to play an active role in the celebration of World Poetry Day, with the positive participation of national committees, NGOs, and private and public relevant institutions, such as schools, municipalities, poetry complexes, museums, cultural associations, publishing houses, local authorities and others.

Poetry, which is the cornerstone of preserving oral cultural identity and traditions, has proven - throughout the ages - its superior ability to communicate human emotions and experiences more deeply.