The importance of cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue

The international community on Thursday observes World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, which was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 2002 as a result of UNESCO’s 2001 Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity. This day should remind us of the essential role cultures play in sustainable development, conflict prevention and peacebuilding globally. The promotion of intercultural dialogue and the preservation of cultural pluralism is particularly vital in an era in which geopolitical tensions appear to be rising.