UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for increased efforts to promote mutual understanding and global solidarity through dialogue. Speaking on Monday at a thematic event marking the first anniversary of the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations, Guterres emphasized that “dialogue is the path to peace.”
“Today, that mission is more urgent than ever,” he noted. “We celebrate the rich diversity of civilizations as a force to promote mutual understanding and global solidarity.”
Guterres warned that where dialogue is missing, ignorance fills the void. “Around the world, we hear rising voices of intolerance and xenophobia, amplified by online misinformation and hate speech,” he said. “In our fractured world, dialogue is not optional; it is essential for building bridges of understanding and trust.”
The International Day is a call to action, Guterres stressed. “Let’s answer hate with humanity. Let’s listen with open hearts and open minds. Let’s choose dialogue over division, and let us strive to be one human family, rich in diversity, united in solidarity, and equal in dignity and human rights.”
Proposed by China and co-sponsored by over 80 countries, a resolution adopted by the UN General Assembly last year designated June 10 as the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations. Monday’s event was organized by the permanent missions to the United Nations of China, Egypt, Peru, Spain, and Uzbekistan, along with the UN Alliance of Civilizations.
UN General Assembly President Philemon Yang also spoke at the event, highlighting that diversity defines human civilization and that dialogue is essential among civilizations. “The planet is home to 8 billion people, comprising over 5,000 ethnic groups, who speak over 7,000 languages between them,” Yang said. “With such abundant diversity—and a wealth of voices and needs—mutual respect and dialogue are essential.”
“We must reinforce the common bonds and values that drive human progress and support peace,” he added. “Let us celebrate the unity and diversity of civilizations and promote tolerance, dialogue, and inclusiveness toward a better world for all.”
