News
Director-General expresses deep sadness at the passing of Alfonso Herrera Franyutti, laureate of the 2016 International UNESCO/José Martí Prize
UNESCO Director-General, Irina Bokova, expressed her deep sadness at the news that Alfonso Herrera Franyutti passed away on 18 March, 2016 in Mexico.
Alfonso Herrera Franyutti was the Laureate of the 2016 International UNESCO/José Martí Prize, chosen for his longstanding contribution to promoting peace, solidarity and human rights among nations and people in Latin America and the Caribbean. He received the prize in Havana, Cuba, on 28 January, 2016.
Alfonso Herrera Franyutti dedicated his work and efforts to promote the spirit of José Martí, throughout the world, and was the author of many books on this Cuban national hero and important figure of Latin American literature.
“On behalf of UNESCO, I wish to express my deepest condolences to the family of Mr Alfonso Herrera Franyutti,” said the Director-General. “The passing of Alfonso Herrera Franyutti is a loss to Mexico and to the entire region. Let us all renew our commitment to take forward his legacy in the defense and promotion of José Martí’s ideals and heritage.”
