UNESCO

Compiled by Helena Rydén, Assistant to the UNESCO Chair on Heritage Futures at Linnaeus University.

World Futures Day (WFD) on 2 December 2025 explored the theme “Anticipation in an Era of Volatility” at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. One of the highlights was the afternoon session, “Crisis Preparedness and Beyond: Future-Making Through Heritage,” where Vicky Karaiskou and Cornelius Holtorf—both UNESCO Chairs—engaged a large and enthusiastic audience.

Vicky Karaiskou and Cornelius Holtorf at UNESCO HQ in Paris 2 December 2025 preparing for the afternoon session.

We were divided into four groups. After introductions by several UNESCO officials, Vicky and Cornelius took the lead and guided us through the workshop in a structured way. Both are deeply interested in the culture and values that shape us as human beings—Vicky focusing on the visual dimension. She explains her field as follows:

“I explore the profound implications of cultural visual narratives, shedding light on how they shape our individual and collective memory, as well as societal perceptions. Visuality examines the origins of our perceptions and assumptions because they deeply influence how we perceive the present, how we engage with the past, and how we envision the future.”

The workshop was truly engaging. We began by discussing what forms a collective identity—language, food, family, and education were among the ideas raised. Next, we reflected on the skills needed to cope with a crisis. We agreed that care—both as a human trait and as something that must be learned—was essential. Finally, we were asked to imagine future scenarios where these skills would matter.

The goal was to help us focus on the origins of our perspectives and assumptions, which deeply impact how we engage with the past, how we perceive the present, and how we envision the future. Our group envisioned a natural disaster scenario where empathy, emotions, and context were crucial for decision-making.

If the aim was to foster empathy, inspire positive change, and promote inclusiveness and social resilience for an equitable future, the workshop certainly succeeded. By envisioning the future beyond the uncertainty of the unknown, we learned how to mobilize communities and stimulate inspiring thinking, feeling, and acting—unlocking new possibilities for creative, “out-of-the-box” solutions.

Several participants said this workshop was the highlight of the day, and some even asked to exchange contact details with us, expressing interest in visiting the Chairs for a period.

Want to learn more about the UNESCO Chairs?

• Vicky Karaiskou’s Chair
• Cornelius Holtorf’s Chair