The program is prepared within the framework of the International Decade for the Rapprochement of Cultures (2013-2022), which was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in its resolution 67/104 of 17 December 2012 entitled: “Promotion of interreligious and intercultural dialogue, understanding and cooperation for peace”. The International Decade seeks to illustrate the benefits of jointly promoting respect for human rights and cultural diversity, while acknowledging the importance of intercultural and interreligious dialogue to fight against new forms of racism, discrimination, intolerance, extremism and radicalization, thus forging ties among peoples and nations.
“Across the world, young people carry the greatest burden of change – I believe they are also the strongest advocates for positive transformation. At a time of uncertainty, when societies are increasingly connected and diverse, we need to strengthen respect and mutual understanding on the basis of human rights and dignity.We need to promote recognition of diversity as a source of strength, creativity and innovation for all societies, and to develop new bridges of dialogue and cooperation on this basis. This calls for greater engagement by young women and cooperation on this basis. This calls for greater engagement by young women and men in decisions that affect their future – it demands their increasing leadership in work to end conflict, to reach across divides, to promote tolerance and respect. This is the basis for a vibrant culture of peace and non-violence, drawing on new skills of cultural literacy”.
Message from Ms. Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO at the launching of the first Aladdin Project – International Summer University for Intercultural Leadership
