New York, United States – From August 1 to 4, 2023, the Pan American Institute of Geography and History (PAIGH) had the honor of being invited as an observer to the 13th Session of the United Nations Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM). The Secretary General, Antonio Campuzano Rosales, represented the Institute at this event of great importance for the Pan American community and the world at large.
The main objective of this Committee session was to lead the coordination, maintenance, and accessibility of geospatial information and resources worldwide. This work is essential to enable United Nations Member States and society in general to use these tools to find sustainable solutions that promote social, economic, and environmental development.
The PAIGH, in keeping with its institutional mission and Strategic Modernization Plan, is proud to have actively participated in this important event, which contributes to the development and advancement of geospatial information management worldwide.
During the six meetings that comprised the 13th Session of the Committee, nearly 400 delegates from 79 countries and 125 observers participated to address the challenges and opportunities presented by global geospatial information management.
Mr. Antonio Campuzano Rosales, representing the PAIGH, stated at the fourth meeting that “the Pan American Institute of Geography and History welcomes the report [presented above] on the Integrated Geospatial Information Framework (IGIF), and we reaffirm that we will continue to align the goals and objectives of our institution with the IGIF and will continue to support its implementation globally and in the countries that make up our Pan American community. We do not want to leave anyone behind.”
Likewise, at the fifth meeting, Mr. Campuzano mentioned the PAIGH’s position on geographical names: “The Pan American Institute of Geography and History greatly appreciates the report presented and reiterates its strong support for the United Nations Group of Experts on Geographical Names, whose work has been fundamental in promoting and protecting geographical names throughout the world. At the Institute’s next General Assembly, we will dedicate special time on the agenda to specifically address the issue of Geographical Names, strengthening collaboration among our Member States and promoting a greater understanding of our rich cultural identity.
In this regard, the Secretary General reaffirmed the PAIGH’s unwavering commitment to continuing to promote the study and protection of geographical names, recognizing that they are fundamental elements that give our nations a sense of belonging and identity. By safeguarding our cultural values through the preservation of these names, we ensure the conservation of our heritage for future generations.
Finally, the Secretary General emphasized that the Pan American Institute of Geography and History “is fully committed to collaborating closely and meaningfully with the United Nations Group of Experts on Geographical Names, sharing knowledge, resources, and experiences to achieve common goals and enrich the global management of geospatial information.”
