Russia's Cultural Sovereignty as the Basis for Strengthening Global Cooperation and Dialogue in the Sphere of Culture: On the 80th Anniversary of UNESCO

Shapovalova Galina Mikhailovna PhD in Law Associate Professor; Department of Legal Disciplines; International Innovation University 23 Fabritiusa str., lit.5, Sochi, 354002, Russia kafedra_up@mail.ru Other publications by this author

Culture represents the main meaning and the main value

the existence of both individual peoples and small ethnic groups, as well as states.

Their independent existence becomes meaningless outside of culture.

D. S. Likhachev "Declaration of Cultural Rights".

1. Introduction

In 2025, on November 16, countries will celebrate the 80th anniversary of UNESCO, which will be an excellent opportunity to highlight the important contribution of this organization to the preservation, accessibility, development and popularization of unique national cultures around the world. This is especially true in the context of globalization and digital transformation, when culture manifests itself in a variety of forms, including both classical and digital. Founded back in 1945, UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) has been actively shaping the international cultural agenda since its inception, focusing its efforts on strengthening cultural diversity, protecting cultural heritage, cultural sovereignty and promoting the exchange of cultures and practices between States ^[1]. The celebration of UNESCO's 80th anniversary should become not only a memorable date, but also the beginning of the formation of an even more active and purposeful international cultural policy at the global level. Of course, this will require the involvement of not only States, but also the private sector, non-governmental organizations, civil society, volunteer movements, and people who are simply not indifferent to the fate of their homeland and its cultural identity.

The preamble to the UNESCO Constitution emphasizes the importance of the widespread dissemination of culture and education to ensure human dignity, which is an important moral and ethical category. This should be based on the principles of justice, freedom and peace. It is also noted that all nations have a sacred duty to carry out this task in a spirit of mutual respect and cooperation. The Charter emphasizes that a world based solely on economic or political ties will not be able to win the unanimous, reliable and sincere support of peoples. Peace should be based on the intellectual and moral solidarity of humanity, i.e. culture. It is culture that is able to convey to the world community that thoughts of war arise in people's minds, therefore, the idea of protecting peace should be rooted in people's minds. (UN official website ( www.un.org/ru/about-us/un-charter/full-text )).

This concept clearly shows the importance of not only scientific and research activities in the field of culture, but also close international cultural cooperation between countries ^[2]. This is confirmed by the UNESCO mandate received from Member States, which defines the organization's authority to promote global social progress. Progress can be achieved through advanced achievements in science, technology, politics, law and culture, as well as based on the principles of sustainable development, which will contribute to more effective use of unique potential. UNESCO's unique potential is based on the guiding principles: striving for the development of high-quality education worldwide, especially the right to access education for all; supporting scientific research and innovation through the exchange of knowledge and technology between countries; promoting freedom of speech and accessibility of information, which is important for a democratic society; plays a key role in preserving the world's cultural heritage, including tangible and intangible heritage ^[3]. In accordance with the norms of international law on the promotion of education, science and culture, UNESCO directs its efforts to strengthen peace by promoting mutual understanding and mutual respect among peoples.

Culture and cultural values of various countries are an important component of the "global world", "world culture" and "world civilization". Culture, while preserving achievements from the past, enriches the present and will serve as inspiration for the future of humanity. Historically, a person's need for culture, manifested in various forms and being an important spiritual support, is present in every era and in every society. Culture is a key factor in the identification and unique value of the existence of peoples and states ^[4]. From this we can conclude that the culture of the past acts as a link between generations, passing on accumulated knowledge, experience and values that have always influenced and continue to influence people's worldview. Culture helps to realize one's roots, understand one's origins, and form a sense of belonging to a particular community. In modern geopolitical realities, each State protects its unique culture, traditions and history, which have shaped its national identity throughout its existence. This identity became the basis for national pride and unity, which, in turn, determined the cultural sovereignty of the state. Sovereignty is one of the fundamental concepts both in international relations and in the context of the national interests of the state ^[5]. Cultural sovereignty is its basic part. In the era of globalization, when cultural boundaries are blurring, it is especially important for States to preserve their cultural values, cultural heritage and identity in order to protect cultural sovereignty as the core of State sovereignty.

2. Russia's cultural sovereignty as a model for the world community

In 2023, in accordance with the state cultural policy, Decree No. 35 of the President of the Russian Federation dated January 25, 2023 "Fundamentals of State Cultural Policy" (hereinafter – FUNDAMENTALS) was updated, which introduced the concept of "cultural sovereignty". This document defines the goals, objectives and main directions necessary for improving the legislation and other legal acts of the Russian Federation regulating the processes of cultural development, as well as for the implementation of state and municipal programs, based on key principles. The Decree outlines nine principles that do not contradict UNESCO's guiding principles in the field of culture. These include the right to self-determination, the recognition of cultural diversity, the protection of cultural heritage, the preservation of traditional knowledge and practices, and the rejection of cultural imperialism. Cultural imperialism is particularly worrisome on this list. Cultural imperialism is a threat because its ideology presupposes the forced dissemination by one culture of its norms and values to the cultures of other nations ^[6]. This is a direct violation of the principle of cultural sovereignty, which leads to the loss of unique cultural values and forms of cultural expression. Rejection of cultural imperialism is a prerequisite for maintaining respect for the cultural heritage of other peoples and preventing attempts to change their way of life. These principles are the basis for ensuring cultural sovereignty, allowing different cultures to coexist in harmony and mutual enrichment ^[7]. Their observance helps to prevent conflicts and contributes to the creation of a sustainable world based on the recognition and respect of cultural diversity ^[8]. Successful cultural development requires resources, including financial resources, innovative technologies, infrastructure, and free access to information and knowledge. Equality of access to these resources ensures equity and the opportunity for each culture to implement its own projects and initiatives. It also prevents the dependence of some cultures on others and promotes the development of cultural projects on equal terms. In the era of digitalization and artificial intelligence, it has become possible to provide access for people with disabilities, including the hard of hearing and visually impaired. In the FUNDAMENTALS document, the legislator belatedly revealed the concept of "cultural sovereignty." This concept includes a set of socio-cultural factors contributing to the formation of both the cultural and national identity of the people and the identity of Russia as a state-civilization. Cultural sovereignty needs to be protected from external influences, including destructive ideological and informational influences, for example, in the form of information attacks. Special attention is paid to the preservation of historical memory for future generations of the Russian people. All together, it will be realized based on traditional Russian spiritual and moral values, which are the foundation of life, human rights and freedoms, as well as patriotism and responsibility for the future of the fatherland. For a deeper understanding of the concept of cultural sovereignty, it is advisable to focus on the list of traditional values of the peoples of Russia (hereinafter referred to as VALUES) within the framework of the Decree of the President of the Russian Federation On Approval of the Foundations of State Policy for the Preservation and Strengthening of Traditional Russian Spiritual and Moral Values dated 11/09/2022 No. 809 (Official Internet Portal of Legal Information (www.pravo.gov.ru ) dated 11/19/2022 , art . 0001202211090019). VALUES include ethical and legal norms, high moral standards, upbringing, culture and education that shape the worldview. These VALUES include the family as the foundation of society, creative work, the priority of the spiritual over the material, charity, justice, solidarity, mutual assistance and mutual respect, as well as historical memory and the continuity of generations. All these aspects play a crucial role in protecting the cultural sovereignty of the Russian Federation.

The Russian Federation, following the provisions of the Constitution of the Russian Federation (Article 67.1), maintains respect for the historical heritage of the country, its thousand-year history, cultural traditions and the memory of ancestors who transmitted ideals and faith in God. By ensuring continuity in the preservation of the state, it can serve as a model for the world community, demonstrating the importance of preserving traditional Russian values, its history, language, and the diversity of cultural forms of expression ^[8]. Cultural values play a key role in the upbringing of future generations, forming in them a sense of belonging to their nation and respect for history and traditions. Through cultural heritage, they assimilate social norms and values, which contributes to their harmonious development. Children and youth should be prepared for global processes that in the modern world reveal previously unknown methods of interactionism in the interpenetration of various cultural codes, national cultures in other senses and shades ^[9]. Therefore, it is important to teach children and youth to find a balance between openness to the world and respect for their roots. This will help them integrate into the global community while maintaining their unique cultural identity ^[10].

Russia is a country with great potential, with a centuries—old cultural heritage, rich experience of interethnic interaction and unique spirituality. She has every reason to actively participate in the global cultural dialogue ^[11]. Therefore, the task of educating the younger generation is not only to transfer knowledge and skills, but also to form a deep understanding of the importance of the differences between universal and pseudo-cultural (false, destructive) values. The Russian cultural code will allow young people to naturally fit into the diversity of global civilization, while preserving the identity of their country ^[12]. It follows that education in the spirit of respect for other cultures will be the key to successful interaction of the future generation with the world, where preserving one's own identity will not be an obstacle, but the basis for fruitful cultural dialogue and cooperation ^[11].

In accordance with the Strategy for Comprehensive Child Safety in the Russian Federation for the period up to 2030 approved by the President of the Russian Federation No. 358 dated 05/17/2023 (hereinafter referred to as KDD or CHILD PROTECTION) (The Official Internet Portal of Legal Information (pravo.gov.ru ) dated 17.5.2023, art. 0001202305170008) and other regulatory legal acts define priority areas of education and socialization, aimed at the comprehensive development of the child's personality, including his spiritual, moral, intellectual and physical aspects. The global information and telecommunication network Internet, which penetrates into all spheres of society, cannot be ignored. This is a reality that plays an important role in accelerating the exchange of information, increasing the effectiveness of online communications and personal development through the process of enriching social experience within the socio-cultural environment of the Internet. As a digital giant, it is changing the way we communicate, work, and learn. Since the Internet is a global information space with a high data transfer rate, it significantly increases access to knowledge and educational resources, which, in turn, contributes to an increase in the level of education. Online information exchange and access to scientific research make the curricula more intense and intelligent, which stimulates the desire to learn and develop. In addition, OnLine platforms offer opportunities for continuing education, allowing the younger generation to acquire new knowledge and competencies regardless of their geographical location ^[13]. The Internet is the World Wide Web, an information repository, and the gigantic content contained in it defies any measurement, being such a capacious information resource valuable for self–development. Nevertheless, there may be hidden vulnerabilities in these areas that need to be addressed to ensure effective protection of children and youth in cyberspace.

Creating a secure information environment on the Internet is a priority state task. It includes protection from external destructive informational and psychological influences, suppression of activities aimed at destroying the VALUES of Russia, etc., which as a result will contribute to the healthy development of the younger generation. It is especially relevant in the light of the growing influence of digital objects of pseudo-culture on the worldview. For example, it can be a substitution or distortion of the virtual space of the real world, where with the help of program code it is possible to transform familiar ideas about the world, canceling established systems of values and meanings. In this context, the question arises about the preservation of cultural heritage and national identity, when unique national features and traditions can be dissolved in the flow of the global virtual world. It follows from this that the creation of effective legal regulation mechanisms is becoming an important component of the life of any state in the global digital environment, Russia is no exception. Therefore, the list of the most important functions of the state has been supplemented by educating the younger generation in the spirit of respect for national peculiarities and traditions, as well as the formation of patriotic consciousness, civic responsibility and respect for older generations. At the same time, the process of forming a diversified personality based on VALUES is a priority goal of the state, which emphasizes the importance of cultural sovereignty and is confirmed in a number of normative legal acts, strategies and concepts aimed at supporting and developing the cultural sphere, especially the PROTECTION of CHILDREN.

Russia actively promotes traditional values on all international platforms, emphasizing their importance for ensuring peace and sustainable development ^[14]. Such values include: moral and spiritual-moral social norms as models, including traditions, rituals and customs inherited from ancestors; invaluable moral and ethical lessons that have retained the right to serve as a standard, a model for modern and future generations, etc.. Throughout history, these cultural phenomena of human civilization have been preserved as elements of an axiological system that societies rely on and rely on when making decisions that are important for their existence ^{[5; 13]}. This, in turn, strengthens national and ethnic identity, the identity of indigenous peoples, determines the norms of ethical and legal behavior, which is especially important in the context of globalization. It is Russia that demonstrates through its international mission that the protection of cultural sovereignty can contribute not only to internal unity, but also to international stability. Thus, the popularization of culture is coming to the fore, whose activities are aimed at strengthening the above-mentioned values in the public consciousness, especially among young people, since it is through education, mass media, cultural events and initiatives at all levels of states that stable foundations can be formed for the transmission of cultural heritage to future generations ^{[13; 14]}. In addition, the popularization of traditional values is becoming an important tool for effectively countering negative manifestations in the context of globalization, i.e. global challenges and threats.

Russia, being one of the UNESCO member States, is proud to present its unique cultural values internationally. The traditional values of the peoples and ethnic groups of Russia can serve as vivid examples of its rich historical and cultural heritage for other participating countries. In conclusion, it can be added that Russia makes a significant contribution to international cultural cooperation and dialogue of cultures and is an important model for the entire world community striving to preserve cultural sovereignty and promote cultural diversity as a common good.

3. The Virtual Ark: a repository of world cultural heritage

In the era of globalization and digital transformation, culture and its rich heritage remain an inexhaustible source of inspiration for creative personalities, including artists, writers and scientists. An innovative art army of IT creators, including web designers, web artists, and programmers, is responding to the modern challenges of the 21st century. With the help of virtual and augmented reality, as well as artificial intelligence tools, they enrich and multiply the cultural heritage created by previous generations and withstood the test of time, creating unique digital cultural objects. These innovative works are becoming an integral part of modern digital culture, continuing the traditions of the classics and opening up horizons for new forms of cultural expression.

By immersing themselves in the study of historical experience and rethinking the past, creative personalities draw ideas and scientific discoveries from it, which, in turn, contributes to progress in various fields such as art, science and technology. This progress is able to integrate the accumulated experience of previous eras, for example, into the modern world of virtual reality, forming a multi-layered worldview where the interaction of culture with digital technologies becomes a catalyst for innovative masterpieces, and the past, present and future are able to coexist in complete harmony. The unity of art, science and information technology forms an integrated global cultural and information space. This creates a digital environment in which old concepts can be rethought and adapted to modern conditions, opening up prospects for creative creativity and scientific research. This topic is especially relevant in multinational and multi-religious countries in the context of globalization and digital transformation ^[15].

The traditional VALUES of the peoples of Russia can inspire other countries to strengthen their cultural foundations. In the context of globalization, Russia emphasizes the importance of cultural sovereignty, showing how it is possible to successfully integrate objects of tangible and intangible culture with modern creative technologies, while preserving uniqueness and identity. There is no doubt that such an approach can become an example for other states seeking to preserve their cultural identity in a rapidly changing world and effectively respond to threats, such as the European moral crisis.

In the era of globalization, digital transformation and the widespread spread of the global Internet, Russia's cultural heritage funds are replenished with objects of digital culture. Electronic libraries containing millions of books, ancient editions and book monuments, collections of museum exhibits, and archival historical documents presented in the Russian segment of the global Internet information space have either been digitized or created initially in digital format, and have become accessible to the entire global audience. Thus, the accessibility of Russian digital culture facilities to the world community not only contributes to strengthening cultural ties, but also to deeper mutual understanding between peoples, which is an important step towards global cultural exchange and international cooperation. The issues of ensuring security in a virtual environment ^[16] are more effectively addressed within the framework of the UNESCO Charter on the Preservation of Digital Heritage (2003). The considered aspects of cultural sovereignty, such as the support of national traditions, the development of cultural institutions and interaction with the world community, are of interest to other countries seeking to preserve their identity in the modern world. As a result of the analysis, it becomes obvious that the Russian approach can serve as a useful example for states facing similar challenges and threats.

In conclusion, it can be argued that the cultural sovereignty of the Russian Federation is a model for the international community and the basis of an axiological system ^[5]. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing Russia's unique centuries-old cultural experience, which demonstrates how the state can effectively protect and develop its cultural identity in the context of globalization, while remaining open to international dialogue and contributing to the expansion of the list of UNESCO member States.

4. Diversity of cultural expressions is the common good of humanity

For 80 years, UNESCO has played an important role in promoting various ideas, including the idea of cultural diversity as a key resource for the sustainable development of the world. The Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, adopted in 2005 (hereinafter – Convention on Cultural Expression) (UN Official Website (www.un.org/ru/documents/decl_conv/conventions/pdf/cult_diversity.pdf )) It serves as a central act in strengthening the foundations of international law on cultural issues. The Convention includes 35 articles defining definitions such as "cultural diversity", "cultural content" and "forms of cultural expression" (article 4). This underlines the importance of a clear understanding and differentiation of these concepts for the effective application of the Convention, and also confirms the sovereign rights of States to develop and implement political, organizational, legal and other measures that they consider necessary to protect and promote cultural development and cultural sovereignty.

The Convention on Cultural Expression pays special attention to human rights as a guarantee of cultural diversity. The protection of cultural diversity is recognized as an ethical imperative, inseparable from respect for the dignity of the human person. This includes the obligation to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms, especially the rights of persons belonging to minorities and the rights of indigenous peoples. This approach highlights the relationship between cultural diversity and human rights, which is a fundamental principle of international law. The principle of sovereignty set out in article 2 confirms the right of States to take measures and implement policies to protect and promote the diversity of cultural expressions on their territories. This right is based on the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Rights and Freedoms (UN Official Website (www.un.org/ru/documents/decl_conv/declarations/declhr.shtml )) and the principles of international law. However, at the same time, the principle of openness and balance requires that measures taken by States promote openness to other cultures of the world and comply with the objectives of the Convention. The Convention underlines the importance of an integrated approach to the protection and promotion of cultural diversity, taking into account both human rights and the cultural sovereignty of States. The problems of cultural diversity have become particularly acute recently in connection with migration processes, the misunderstanding of which leads to the fact that the local population is faced with a change in their usual way of life, the emergence of new religious and ethnic groups, which causes tension and misunderstanding in society. This raises the question of the permissibility of maintaining cultural autonomy in a multinational and multi-religious society. Therefore, the experience of the international community in the field of cultural diversity, covering legal, educational, social and cultural aspects, is especially relevant in the context of 21st century globalization. Considering that the process of globalization, accelerated by the rapid development of modern information and communication technologies, although endangers cultural diversity, at the same time opens up prospects for a new dialogue between cultures and civilizations.

The experience of Russia's millennial history convincingly demonstrates that cultural diversity is the greatest common good, and cultural interaction is one of the conditions for sustainable development and peaceful coexistence. Russia has a unique cultural heritage that plays a key role in the global cultural landscape. The Russian cultural heritage is distinguished by its scale and diversity. It covers a thousand-year history, starting with the ancient Slavic tribes and ending with modern achievements in art, science and literature. The wealth of Russian literature, music, painting, and architecture is recognized worldwide. Literary works by Tolstoy, Dostoevsky and other creators are presented in a digital version on the humanitarian educational portal KULTURA.RF. Russian Russian poet, the founder of the Russian literary language, A.S. Pushkin, wrote:: "And the voice of God called to me: "Arise, O prophet, and see, and hearken, and, circumnavigating the seas and lands, burn the hearts of men with the verb" ^[17]. The musical masterpieces of Rachmaninoff, Tchaikovsky, the architectural ensembles of St. Petersburg and Moscow, the iconography of Andrei Rublev — all this is only a small part of what makes up the Russian cultural treasury. Historically, Russia has been home to many peoples and cultures, which is reflected in the unique synthesis of East and West traditions. This feature allows Russia to play an important role in the dialogue between different civilizations.

As one of the oldest members of UNESCO, Russia actively participates in the activities of this organization aimed at protecting and promoting cultural diversity. On April 21, 1954, the Soviet Ambassador to Great Britain, Ya.A. Malik, signed the UNESCO Charter on behalf of the USSR Government. Thus, significant progress has been made in strengthening the Organization's potential as a truly universal platform. UNESCO Director General L. Evans wrote in a letter to Minister of Foreign Affairs V.M. Molotov:: "I have learned with deep satisfaction about the accession of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics to the Organization. People's security and happiness can only be enhanced through such international cooperation in the fields of education, science, and culture" ^[18].

Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, speaking at the opening of the exhibition dedicated to the 70th anniversary of the USSR's accession to UNESCO, held in Moscow on April 22, 2024, stressed that UNESCO had found an initiative and responsible member in Russia. For seven decades, we have been confirming our commitment to the ideals and principles of this organization in practice. The provisions of the Charter concerning the desire to "achieve peace through the cooperation of peoples in the field of education, science and culture" and the "moral and intellectual solidarity of mankind" are not just words on paper for us; they have deep value and significance for us. Sergey Lavrov continued that the representative Commission for UNESCO is successfully functioning in our country, which unites federal and regional authorities, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, universities, museums, nature reserves, mass media, research institutes, schools and creative intelligentsia. In our practical activities, we always rely on the priority of promoting a unifying agenda, based on a balance of interests and the preservation of the cultural sovereignty of the Russian Federation. Russia's approaches to respecting the Organization's statutory powers are supported by the vast majority of member countries ^[18]. In conclusion, Sergey Lavrov quoted the words of A.N. Kuznetsov, head of the Soviet delegation to the 10th session of the General Conference in 1958 (at that time the First Deputy Minister of Culture of the USSR): "Let the word "peace" shine like an unquenchable star at this crossroads of ideas, which is UNESCO." The Russian Federation aims to implement these words, to resist attempts to undermine the goals of our common Organization and make this star less bright. We will not allow this ^[18].

Earlier in the year, the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, during the IX St. Petersburg International Cultural Forum at the plenary session of the United Cultures in November 2023, noted that we were implementing very serious projects through the Organization ^[19]. He drew the attention of the forum participants to the fact that St. Petersburg was created by outstanding architects from various countries. This city is a concentration of the brilliant achievements of great writers, musicians, scientists, actors and thinkers in the broadest sense, whose work has become an integral part of the world cultural heritage. It is very symbolic that we are talking about culture in the museum city of St. Petersburg, which has been the capital of the Russian Empire for about 200 years, so it has preserved a rich historical and cultural heritage. Russian Russian is a vivid symbol of the universal responsiveness of the Russian people and the Russian soul, which Fyodor Mikhailovich Dostoevsky wrote about. It is a city capable of comprehending, accepting and developing all the best, not focusing on differences, but finding commonalities. He embodies the desire for mutual spiritual enrichment and joint movement forward. These principles have always been close to Russia and our people, a country of civilization that carefully preserves the languages and traditions of all the peoples inhabiting it, and represents a unique unity of many distinctive cultures. With its unique experience in language policy, our country occupies a leading position in the implementation of the program "International Decade of the World's Indigenous Languages in 2022-2032" (UN official website (www.unesco.org/ru/decades/indigenous-languages )). Russian experts are involved in understanding the ethical dimension of the latest technological advances, including artificial intelligence and neurotechnology. In parallel with the development of creative industries, attention is being paid to ethical and legal issues. It is important to remember that the use of modern information technologies should be implemented on the principles of respect for culture and history, as well as to prevent the complete commercialization of cultural heritage. Ethical standards should form the basis of all initiatives related to the protection and access to digital world cultural heritage sites. In 2021, 193 countries, with the active participation of Russia, adopted the first global Recommendation on the ethics of artificial intelligence. With the support of the Russian state, major leading Russian companies from the Alliance in the field of artificial intelligence have developed a Code of Ethics, the text of which is posted on the website https://ethics.a-ai.ru , which is a unified system of recommendation principles and rules, taking into account all global trends aimed at creating a trusting environment for the development of artificial intelligence technologies. The Code of Ethics is based on six principles, one of which is the introduction of artificial intelligence technologies in areas where they can benefit people. In 2025, artificial intelligence technologies and the Code of Ethics developed for it became the topic of another forum, which brought together experts, researchers and representatives of various industries, where more than 1,000 initiatives were presented, more than 30 of the world's leading developers published corporate principles of ethics for artificial intelligence, and more than 10 states published national principles. The Forum has become a platform for the exchange of opinions and best practices, which will make it possible to more effectively integrate artificial intelligence into various spheres of life, while ensuring compliance with ethical norms and standards. Today, the whole world is studying and implementing the principles of artificial intelligence, and UNESCO is one of the leading organizations on this list.

Within the framework of the importance of the diversity of cultural forms of expression, UNESCO opens new horizons for innovative approaches to the world cultural heritage and its protection, as well as acts as a guarantor of human rights and freedoms.

Modern technologies, including artificial intelligence and virtual reality, have become powerful tools in the field of preserving and popularizing cultural values in the global information space. Creative innovations open up new perspectives for the creation of interactive museums, virtual exhibitions and digital platforms. As a result, digital culture takes on many forms, reflecting the diversity of unique cultural expressions of the peoples and societies that make up humanity. This makes digital culture more accessible to an international audience.

The Convention on Cultural Expression plays a key role in protecting and promoting cultural heritage, providing support to national communities in preserving their traditions and unique practices in the context of globalization. It promotes the creation of international cooperation and the exchange of experience, which will allow different cultures to interact and enrich each other. As a result, it will not only help preserve the diversity of cultural expressions in different formats, but also guarantee deeper mutual understanding and respect between peoples and civilizations on a global level.

5. UNESCO Virtual Museum of Stolen Artifacts: A Digital Future for World Heritage

UNESCO pays special attention to illicit trafficking in cultural property and has been actively combating this criminal activity for the past 40 years on the basis of the Convention on the Prohibition and Prevention of Illicit Trafficking in Cultural Property (1970) (UN official website (unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000133378 ). The Convention has been signed by 120 States to combat the illegal trade in artifacts on a global scale, and special units have been set up in the participating countries. The international police Interpol came to the aid of UNESCO ^[20]. Interpol has confirmed the scale of criminal activity, with the annual volume of illicit trafficking in cultural property amounting to about six billion dollars. The trade in archaeological artifacts and works of art is one of the largest illegal businesses, comparable in scale to the arms and drug trade.

In this regard, UNESCO and Interpol have announced the upcoming launch of a virtual museum, the fund of which will consist of virtual samples of stolen cultural property. The virtual museum is scheduled to open in 2025. This project, which has no analogues in the world, will serve as an effective tool to raise awareness of the problems associated with illicit trafficking in cultural property, their restitution and return. The virtual museum will not only document lost artifacts, but also provide comprehensive information about their origin, significance, and efforts to recover them. This issue and related issues were discussed during a meeting of the UN General Assembly. UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay emphasizes: "Behind every stolen work of art lies a piece of unique human history, which was taken away from its keepers, became inaccessible for research and now risks being forgotten" ^[20].

Creation of a virtual museum of stolen valuables (UN official website (news.un.org/ru/tags/muzey )) and efforts to recover lost artifacts raise important issues related to the preservation of the world cultural heritage ^[13]. This project, along with other UNESCO initiatives, demonstrates that modern digital technologies such as virtual and augmented reality, artificial intelligence, etc., can become powerful tools in protecting and restoring lost cultural values. In addition, international cooperation continues to be a key element in preserving human history. This is a vivid example of how the leading international organizations UNESCO and Interpol have joined forces and can effectively combat the illicit trafficking of world cultural heritage thanks to information technologies and the global information and telecommunications network Internet. In addition, UNESCO and Interpol need a global Internet network to establish cooperation with various public and private institutions around the world to share information and resources. This cooperation will contribute to more effective monitoring and prompt response to cases of illicit trafficking in cultural property.

With the use of modern digital technologies, these organizations can create extensive databases that include virtual samples. Today, this list contains more than 52 thousand stolen artifacts, as well as information about their origin and characteristics. Photos of cultural heritage sites will be converted to 3D format. Thus, the integration of information technologies and international cooperation will not only strengthen the fight against crime in the field of illicit trafficking in cultural property, but will also contribute to its preservation for future generations. This is an important step towards protecting the common world history and cultural heritage for all mankind.

6. Conclusion

As we celebrate UNESCO's 80th anniversary, we must definitely look to the future. UNESCO's mission remains as relevant today as it was in 1945. UNESCO, as an international organization, appeared in order for the world cultural heritage to be protected by the rule of law, functioning on legal principles and legal principles consistent with existing international legal acts on human rights. To address the challenges of the 21st century, UNESCO needs to continue to adapt and innovate. This includes using information technology to expand access to a variety of cultural expressions and promote intercultural dialogue in an increasingly interconnected and interdependent world. Changes in the global world have become an incentive for a fundamental revision of the approaches established in the practice of international cooperation and to the definition of the concepts of "cultural values", "cultural heritage", "cultural diversity" and to political and legal measures to preserve, develop and protect the cultural sovereignty of countries. Russia has defined "cultural sovereignty" as a principle that ensures the protection and development of national culture, as well as the strengthening of cultural identity and traditional values in the context of globalization and cultural diversity.

For 80 years, UNESCO has been actively promoting international events where topical issues in the field of culture, science and education are discussed. These platforms allow for the involvement of a wide range of participants, including government agencies, cultural organizations, academia, and civil society. In this context, an important area of UNESCO's work is the development and support of creative industries, which in modern conditions will not only preserve cultural diversity, but will also contribute to its innovative reinterpretation and promotion. For example, the introduction of digitalization processes to create electronic libraries, virtual museums, digital archives and other digital platforms that make culture accessible to a global audience ^[13]. The participation of the younger generation in cultural initiatives and art-creative projects should play a key role. They are the most active creators and users of the Internet, social networks and digital platforms. The younger generation carries ideas that can not only enrich culture, but also offer innovative forms of cultural expression. For this, it is important that young creators accept cultural diversity as the norm, not the exception. Russia is implementing the federal project "Digital Culture", which ensures the widespread introduction of digital technologies into the cultural space of the Russian segment of the global Internet.

UNESCO, within the framework of its mandate, recognizes the diversity of cultures, supports the importance of all forms and ways of transmitting universal values, customs, traditions, ethical and legal norms and rules of conduct, regardless of who and in what form they are represented. The culture of different peoples, tangible and intangible, traditional or digital, is an object of UNESCO protection ^[21]. Today, it is impossible to ignore the benefits of digital methods and tools. The spread of information technologies such as 3D modeling and virtual reality has influenced classical culture by providing programs and specialized equipment for digitization, as well as services for accessing digital cultural heritage sites equipped with navigation and search tools in Online and OffLine modes. This will allow the global audience to touch the masterpieces of culture, regardless of time and geography. The 80th anniversary of UNESCO will not only go down in history as a significant date, but will also become an important stage on the way to a more vibrant cultural diversity, popularization of spiritual and moral values. Russia's cultural sovereignty is a treasure trove of traditional values recognized by the international community as the best example. It is Russian traditional values that touch the deepest feelings of the human soul, being the basis for the formation of a highly moral personality. In the digital age, UNESCO will promote the development of digital art culture as an indelible and indestructible bridge between peoples and states, which will certainly allow for events to promote cultural diversity in various forms of self-expression in the global information space of the Internet ^[22].

The current geopolitical situation in the world emphasizes the importance of scientific research and international cooperation in the field of culture. Scientists are studying UNESCO's key concepts that contribute to the fulfillment of its mission to strengthen peace and security. The works of Yu.V. Sobolevskaya and G. M. Shapovalova are devoted to the issue of cultural sovereignty. In his scientific article, I. M. Yezhov confirmed that over the past 80 years, humanity has made the right choice, focusing on the preservation and protection of cultural sovereignty in the context of national security. Researcher P. A. Shashkin presented his vision of cultural sovereignty within the framework of strategic planning of state cultural policy, emphasizing that its provision is possible through the implementation of a set of political and legal measures and socio-cultural initiatives, with which the author fully agrees. An analysis of international acts related to UNESCO's activities throughout its existence makes it possible to trace changes in approaches to modern challenges and threats. UNESCO, as a specialized organization, serves as a reliable humanitarian pillar for global architecture and functions as a universally recognized forum dedicated to the preservation of both tangible and intangible cultural heritage of the world. In addition, it actively promotes the spread of universal moral values, which is becoming especially important in the context of globalization and digital transformation. Scientists drew attention to this problem in their articles by A. S. Kapto and E. R. Tagirov, emphasizing the importance of UNESCO and its functions in protecting and rethinking the role of culture in the human community as an important tool for responding to modern challenges and threats. The scientist A. N. Lebedeva in his work focuses on the importance of cooperation between states under the auspices of UNESCO. The author of the article argues that UNESCO and the adopted international legal acts have become the basis for the preservation of various forms of cultural heritage. D. L. Spivak adds that it is important to focus not only on issues of international cooperation, but also on the dialogue of cultures, introducing the concepts of "diversity of heritage" and "dialogue of legacies" as new and complex concepts. In a number of scientific papers, undergraduates and postgraduates acted as co-authors, which is the right decision, since young scientists immerse themselves in relevant topics at the stage of their active discussion. D. A. Shagulyeva notes the following in her work: "Today, our youth must not only keep up with modernity, but also honor the traditions of their ancestors, preserving the good deeds and wisdom of past generations." The articles by V. S. Gavryushina and T. V. Petrova emphasize the importance of improving Russia's state cultural policy, especially in the field of education and upbringing of young people as future bearers of traditional spiritual and moral values. For example, Ya. S. Sachkova, I. V. Khomyakova and their co-authors M. T. Golovan, O. O. Putin, D. U. Angarova, M. Chayuk and I. A. Yumasheva devoted their works to key areas of scientific research, such as the active involvement of Russian youth in the preservation of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. To confirm their research, an International scientific and practical conference for students and young scientists called "UNESCO World Heritage in the hands of youth" is held annually. The authors emphasize that the involvement of young people in scientific activities contributes to the formation of value orientations among the new generation that help preserve cultural identity and historical memory. Given the technological progress in which young people are actively involved, they will play an important role in strengthening intercultural dialogue, introducing information and communication technologies into the cultural sphere, and improving international cooperation to preserve both tangible and intangible World Heritage. The participation of young scientists in research is crucial to ensure a sustainable future for our world. Special attention should be paid to the work of Doctor of Philosophy A. S. Kapto, Head of the UNESCO Department of Social Sciences and Humanities at ISPI RAS. His research focuses on a conceptual approach to the problem of cultural diversity within the framework of UNESCO's humanitarian and peacekeeping programs. The author analyzes the key international regulations of the Organization on this topic and reveals the principles of international cultural cooperation that promote the development of cultural diversity in harmonious interaction with the unity of cultural space.

All of the above will contribute to dialogue and international cooperation both in the present and in the future. At the same time, the international community will be ready to recognize the right of every nation to preserve its identity and cultural identity. For the participating States, this will be a guarantee of the protection (preservation, strengthening and development) of their cultural sovereignty. Russia has shown by its example how important it is for the national security of the state to preserve and protect cultural sovereignty, combining respect for historical heritage and traditions with openness to international dialogue and cooperation when the world is faced with challenges and threats of unification and loss of cultural diversity ^[23]. Russia is committed to working closely with all those who share our VALUES, friendship and mutual respect, and who are ready to participate in shaping a modern multipolar world based on civilizational and cultural diversity. Russia offers its own experience based on a balance between preserving national identity and participating in global cultural exchange. Such an approach can become an important guideline for countries seeking to strengthen their cultural identity, cultural values and at the same time contribute to the development of world culture in the context of globalization.

In connection with the 80th anniversary of UNESCO's activities in the field of culture, we can express hope for further active and effective promotion of its mission aimed at preserving the world cultural heritage, promoting the diversity of cultural expressions and strengthening international cooperation in this field. All these aspects together - the preservation of the identity of peoples, as well as equal rights and opportunities for all States - are the key to world peace and successful human development.