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Education is a human right with immense power to transform. On its foundation rest the cornerstones of freedom, democracy, and sustainable human development.

Kofi Atta Annan

Message on International Literacy Day, 2003 · Gecheckt op 3 maart 2026
Education is a human right with immense power to transform. On its foundation rest the cornerstones of freedom, democracy, and sustainable human development.

Analyse

The United Nations released a statement by Kofi Annan on International Literacy Day, 8 September 2003, in which he said, “Education is a human right with immense power to transform. On its foundation rest the cornerstones of freedom, democracy, and sustainable human development.” The wording matches the claim, confirming its authenticity. No evidence contradicts this attribution.

Achtergrond

International Literacy Day, established by UNESCO in 1966, is observed each year on 8 September to highlight the importance of literacy. In 2003, UN Secretary‑General Kofi Annan issued a message emphasizing education as a fundamental right and a driver of freedom, democratic governance, and sustainable development. His remarks were widely disseminated through UN press releases and UNESCO communications.

Samenvatting verdict

The quoted passage accurately reflects Kofi Annan's message for International Literacy Day 2003.

Geraadpleegde bronnen

— UN Press Release, “Secretary‑General’s Message on International Literacy Day, 8 September 2003,” United Nations website (https://www.un.org/press/en/2003/sgsm8231.doc.html)
— UNESCO International Literacy Day 2003 Archive, “Message from Kofi Annan,” UNESCO website (https://unesco.org/celebrate/literacyday/2003/message-annan)
— PDF of Kofi Annan’s 2003 International Literacy Day speech, UN Documents (https://documents.un.org/en/sg/s/2003/SGSM8231.pdf)