UNESCO Recognizes Cyrus Cylinder as Global Symbol of Human Rights

Samarkand, Uzbekistan: UNESCO’s General Conference has officially recognized the Cyrus Cylinder — often called the world’s first declaration of human rights — as a global symbol of freedom, justice, and respect for cultural diversity.

The decision was unanimously approved by member states during the 43rd General Conference held on November 6, 2025, in Samarkand. The resolution was jointly proposed by Iran, Tajikistan, and Iraq. It describes the Cyrus Cylinder as “a foundational document in human history” and “the earliest written expression of liberty, justice, tolerance, and cultural respect.”

Under the resolution, UNESCO will promote the values and teachings of the Cyrus Cylinder through its educational, cultural, and human rights programs. Representatives from countries including Egypt, Iraq, Colombia, India, Nigeria, Algeria, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Kenya, Senegal, Armenia, and Poland supported the initiative.

The Cyrus Cylinder, housed at the British Museum, is an ancient clay artifact from the 6th century BCE. It records the conquest of Babylon by Cyrus the Great and highlights his policies of religious tolerance and restoration of sanctuaries. Scholars view it as an early statement on justice, human dignity, and governance.

Iran’s Minister of Cultural Heritage, Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri, called the UNESCO decision a “historic moment for Iran and humanity”. He said the resolution shows the Cyrus Cylinder as a bridge between ethics and politics, past and future, and nations and global conscience.

Salehi-Amiri added that the text reminds the world of Iran’s history of freedom, respect for diversity, reconstruction of communities, and coexistence among religions. He said Iranian civilization has long promoted dialogue, tolerance, justice, and spirituality.

Previously, UNESCO had also recognized Iran’s cultural heritage, including the 1,150th anniversary of Bayazid Bastami, a master of Islamic mysticism, and the centennial of scholar Allameh Tabatabaei, known for his work The Principles of Philosophy and the Method of Realism.