In a world facing uncertainty and calls for shared values, the 2025 Nishan Forum on World Civilizations is set to convene at the foot of Nishan Mountain in east China’s Shandong Province—the birthplace of Confucius.
Slated for July 9 to 10, the forum serves as a prominent platform for intercultural dialogue, highlighting the enduring relevance of Confucianism in addressing today’s ethical dilemmas, social fragmentation, and cultural clashes.
Rediscovering Confucian Wisdom
The Nishan Forum aims to foster mutual learning among civilizations and promote shared moral values through open dialogue. Central to this mission is a renewed interest in Confucianism—a philosophy that has shaped Chinese thought for over two millennia.
Confucianism emphasizes virtues such as ren (benevolence), li (ritual propriety), yi (righteousness), and zhongyong (the doctrine of the mean). It underscores the cultivation of moral character, the importance of family and social responsibility, and the pursuit of harmony through ethical leadership.
“Many of today’s societal problems stem from a global moral crisis,” said Tan Eng Chaw, president of the Confucian Society in Singapore. “To address this, humanity must build a new framework of universal ethics—and Confucianism offers invaluable moral resources that can help guide this transformation.”
Relevance to Modern Challenges
From ethical leadership to social cohesion, Confucian ideas resonate with global concerns. Its call for self-discipline, mutual respect, and balanced coexistence offers timely insights into issues like governance, inequality, and environmental responsibility.
Professor Gao Ruiquan of East China Normal University noted that Confucianism has always embraced change. “The pragmatic tradition of Confucianism means it evolves with the times, constantly responding to new challenges. Its revival is not only vital to the renewal of Chinese civilization but also to the vision of a shared human future,” he said.
Toward a Harmonious Future
As the world navigates profound transformations, experts believe the resurgence of Confucianism offers a way forward. In times when many question the sustainability of existing models, Confucianism provides a moral compass rooted in human dignity, shared responsibility, and ethical progress.
“Only when we understand and respect each other’s values can we truly build a world that is not only interconnected but also morally sustainable,” Professor Gao pointed out.
China is revitalizing Confucianism domestically and integrating its values into global initiatives. Central to this effort is the concept of building a community with a shared future for mankind—a vision rooted in Confucian ideals of harmony, inclusiveness, and mutual benefit.
This vision is reflected in several major initiatives proposed by China, including the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative. Each emphasizes dialogue over confrontation, cooperation over division, and ethics over dominance.
As participants at the Nishan Forum continue to exchange ideas across cultures and civilizations, one thing is clear: Confucianism is no longer just a pillar of Chinese heritage. It is increasingly seen as a global asset, capable of contributing to a more just, harmonious, and ethical world order.
