The first-ever United Nations (UN)s International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations was globally observed on 10 June 2025 to raise awareness about intercultural understanding, mutual respect, and global solidarity in an increasingly divided and crisis-prone world.
- The day emphasizes the importance of dialogue to uphold peace, development, trust, governance, and universal human rights.
Background:
i.In 7th June 2024, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted Resolution A/RES/78/286 during its 88th plenary meeting and proclaimed 10 June of every year as the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations.
ii.The resolution was proposed by China and co-sponsored by over 80 countries.
Significance:
i.Shows support for China’s Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) to promote peace and understanding.
ii.Recognises the rich cultural contributions of Chinese civilization to the world.
iii.Highlights the importance of open and respectful dialogue between countries.
About Civilization:
According to the Paris (France) based United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), civilizations are universal, pluralistic, and non-hierarchical in nature. They are shaped by intercultural dynamics, while preserving their distinct identities.
UNESCO’s Role in Promoting Dialogue Among Civilizations:
i.In response to growing concerns about cultural conflicts during the 1990s, particularly following debates on the “clash of civilizations,” the United Nations took steps to promote mutual understanding and intercultural dialogue.
ii.The year 2001 was declared the United Nations Year of Dialogue among Civilizations, emphasizing the importance of peaceful coexistence.
iii.On 21 November 2001, the UNGA adopted Resolution A/RES/56/6, endorsing the Global Agenda for Dialogue among Civilizations.
iv.To lead this global effort, UNESCO was assigned the primary role within the United Nations system, reinforcing its mission to foster cultural cooperation and international peace.
Event 2025:
i.To mark the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations, UNESCO, in collaboration with the Permanent Delegation of the People’s Republic of China to UNESCO, hosted a symposium titled “Youth Dialogue on the Future along the Silk Roads” on 5 June 2025 at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, France.
ii.The event included the opening of the “Youth Eyes on the Silk Roads” photo exhibition and a special performance by renowned Chinese pianist Lang Lang.
