“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