Nauryz, Navruz, Nawrouz, Nevruz, Nooruz, Novruz, Nowrouz, Nowruz – this celebration of the arrival of spring is as rich in names as it is in traditions. No matter what you call it, this shared festivity has brought communities together across countries and regions for more than 3,000 years.

Indeed, millions of people in Western, Central and South Asia, South-East Europe and elsewhere celebrate this event annually. Meaning “new day”, Nowruz is a symbol of new beginnings, a message of rebirth. But it also brings people of different cultures together, so that they can appreciate their shared values and aspirations.

As such, Nowruz is a bridge between the past and the future. Transmitted from one generation to the next, it embodies a sense of continuity and strengthens feelings of belonging. Even after 3,000 years, Nowruz is a thriving example of living heritage, brought to life through chants, dances, public rituals, traditional games and wonderful meals.

In this way, it reflects many of the values of UNESCO, such as the importance of building connections, promoting mutual respect, living harmoniously with nature, and promoting solidarity and peace in the minds of people. Given its contribution to cultural diversity and harmony, Nowruz was recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009, with more countries joining the inscription in 2016.

In times of crisis, we need uplifting celebrations like these more than ever. The spirit of Nowruz – of hope, of resilience and of renewal – is captured beautifully in the Persian poet Omar Khayyam’s Rubáiyát: “The spring breeze on a rose’s cheek spreads joy. The face you glimpse beyond the blooms grants bliss. No words about last winter can bring cheer; don’t speak of yesterday – rejoice today.”

In a world disrupted by conflict and ever more pressing issues, Nowruz carries a message of hope. Let us all be inspired by Nowruz today – and its promise of peace, solidarity and joy for tomorrow.