The
tragedy of September 11,
2001 clearly illustrated
that many conflicts in
the world are the result
of "cultural differences."
Shortly after this tragic
event, 185 nations unanimously
adopted the UNESCO
Universal Declaration
on Cultural Diversity
to proclaim that our cultural
differences should not
separate us from each
other, but rather cultural
diversity brings a collective
strength that can benefit
all of humanity. It rejected
the claims that a clash
of cultures and civilizations
is unavoidable, and stressed
that intercultural dialogue
is the best guarantee
of a more peaceful, just
and sustainable world.
What is culture?
A culture is a community's
language, arts and literature.
It is also its values
system, traditions, beliefs
and way of living. Respecting
and protecting culture
is a matter of Human Rights.
Everyone should be able
to participate in the
cultural life of their
choice. The Convention
on the protection and
promotion of the diversity
of cultural expressions
was adopted in October
2005 to outline legal
rights and obligations
regarding international
cooperation to help protect
cultural diversity throughout
the world.
Diversity
Day, officially known
as World Day for
Cultural Diversity for
Dialogue and Development,
is an opportunity to help
our communities to understand
the value of cultural
diversity and learn how
to live together in harmony.
UNESCO
Universal Declaration
on Cultural Diversity
Do
Your Bit
Dag
Hammarskjold Library Links
UN
Works for Cultural Diversity
Coalition
for Cultural Diversity
Globalization
of Culture
International
Network for Cultural Diversity
International
Center for Dialogue Among
Civilizations
UN
Meditation Initiative
DIVERSITY
Quotes
