For the first time, BookCity Institute proudly announces a groundbreaking partnership with UNICEF Iran to champion the welfare and rights of children across the nation. This collaboration harnesses the unique strengths of both organizations—BookCity’s deep cultural roots and UNICEF’s global expertise—to support the most vulnerable children and inspire systemic change.
At the heart of this initiative is a commitment to leverage the transformative power of culture and innovation to empower children. The partnership will bring cultural platforms enriched with aesthetic knowledge to life, creating safe, inspiring spaces for children to dream, learn, and grow. Plans include launching book-reading clubs and leagues for underserved children, instituting cultural awards to honor outstanding children’s authors and publishers, and mobilizing resources to expand UNICEF’s critical programs.
“We believe in fostering a cultural ecosystem where children can thrive, guided by education, creativity, and beauty,” said Mr. Mehdi Firouzan, CEO and President of the Board of BookCity Institute. “This partnership is an extension of our mission to enhance cultural engagement. It also strengthens BookCity’s longstanding relationships with universities and international cultural centers, paving the way for even greater opportunities to serve the community.”
Dr. Monika Oledzka Nielsen, UNICEF Representative a.i. in Iran, praised BookCity’s capacity to amplify UNICEF’s message. “With its vast network and deep ties to Iran’s cultural landscape, BookCity is uniquely positioned to help us advocate for children’s rights and welfare. Together, we aim to bring smiles to the faces of children, lighting the path toward their dreams.”
The collaboration also highlights the private sector’s role as a driver of positive change. Both organizations aim to set an example by integrating children’s rights into their operations and inspiring other businesses to follow suit, demonstrating how innovation and social responsibility can work hand in hand.
The three-year agreement, signed by Dr. Nielsen and Mr. Firouzan on November 18, 2024, marks the beginning of a shared journey to reimagine what’s possible for Iran’s children. With BookCity’s extensive network of over 100 branches and its legacy of cultural leadership, this partnership promises to make a lasting impact on children and their communities.
About BookCity
BookCity is a pioneering cultural institution in Iran, boasting over 100 branches and hosting more than 6,000 events annually. With a mission to foster intellectual and cultural engagement, its subsidiaries—such as Hermes Publishing House and Hermes Records—are key players in the country’s cultural scene. Through its innovative platforms, BookCity connects communities with the transformative power of literature, art, and dialogue.
About UNICEF
Since the 1950s, UNICEF has been a steadfast advocate for Iran’s children, addressing key challenges from health and nutrition to education and child protection. Its current program (2023–2027) focuses on empowering children and adolescents in critical areas such as social policy, emergency preparedness, and climate resilience, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.
Through this partnership, BookCity and UNICEF Iran reaffirm their commitment to children, weaving culture and advocacy into a vision where every child can dream big and thrive.
