Mongolian rock act THE HU are honored to announce they've been named UNESCO's "Artist For Peace" at a ceremony yesterday (November 25) at UNESCO's headquarters in Paris, FR by UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay.

 

They are the first-ever artist in the rock/metal genre to receive this prestigious designation and follow previous "Artist for Peace" recipients including Celine Dion, Shirley Bassey, Sarah Brightman, Herbie Hancock, Marcus Miller and World Orchestra For Peace.

Having met the band on her official visit to Mongolia this past August, Azoulay has acknowledged THE HU's contribution to the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage and their support for the promotion of cultural diversity through music; these are qualities which resonate with UNESCO's values and work.

 

Founded in 2016 in Ulaanbaatar, THE HU have since amassed a global following and critical acclaim with their unique musical genre they call "Hunnu Rock." 

 

As an "Artist for Peace"--alongside UNESCO Goodwill Ambassadors and Champions-THE HU will be designated for a renewable period of two years in which time they will help raise public awareness on UNESCO's mandate and programs among the general public and youth. THE HU will use their talent and reputation to promote UNESCO's values and objectives through upcoming events and projects to help bring a positive change.

 

THE HU's UNESCO "Artist For Peace" title lands alongside their previous awards as Cultural Envoy of Mongolia in 2019 and being the first group and 12th overall recipients of the highest state award in Mongolia, the Order of Genghis Khan, which was granted to the band by the President of Mongolia, Kh. Battulga in 2020.