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December 24, 2025
Talk event featuring Patrick Harlan AKA Pakkun (16 Dec @ United Nations University in Tokyo)
Date: 2025/12/02
Dear SSJ-Forum Members,
The United Nations University (UNU) would like to invite you to "Connecting Cultures: How Humour Speaks Louder than Words", a conversation with Patrick Harlan, a comedian and voice actor also known as Pakkun. This event will start at 18:30 on 16 December 2025, in the 2F Reception Hall at UNU Headquarters in Tokyo. The event will be held in-person in English.
Advanced registration (by 15 Dec at 15:00) is required.
For further information and registration details, please see:
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In an increasingly interconnected world, differences in language, identity and perspective can lead to misunderstanding and division. Yet humour, with its unique ability to transcend linguistic and cultural boundaries, offers a powerful tool for human connection. It can ease tensions, foster inclusive dialogue, and spark meaningful conversations where formal communication may fall short. A shared laugh is a universal thread that strengthens human bonds.
At a time when global divides feel more pronounced, humour can shed new light on current events, bridge differences and promote cross-cultural understanding. Comedy often draws on cultural and linguistic nuances, revealing the subtleties of communication and encouraging deeper mutual appreciation.
Patrick Harlan will join UNU Chief of Staff Michael Baldock for a discussion on humour as a means of connecting cultures. How can humour foster appreciation for other cultures? How and why is laughter able to break down barriers and build common ground? What are the challenges of translating humour across languages and cultures?
This event is part of the UNU Conversation Series, which aims to foster audience participation. You are encouraged to engage with the speakers during the conversation and at the reception that will follow, where all event attendees are invited to enjoy hors d'oeuvres and drinks while exchanging ideas and making new contacts.
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We look forward to seeing you there!
Kind regards,
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Yukiko Nakahari (Ms) / 中張有紀子
Japan Communications Specialist / 広報・メディア担当
Office of Communications / 広報部
United Nations University /国連大学
Email: y.nakahari@unu.edu
URL: https://jp.unu.edu
UNU@50 www.unu.edu/unuat50
Approved by ssjmod at 03:45 PM