Message by
Under-Secretary-General, Mr. Miguel Moratinos
The High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC),
On the occasion of the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations
New York – 9 June 2024
I welcome the adoption of the General Assembly resolution “International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations” declaring June 10 as an International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations.
As we mark the occasion, I wish to reaffirm the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations, the Declaration of Human Rights and the States’ obligations under international human rights law to uphold and protect all rights and fundamental freedoms of all persons, without distinction. As such, dialogue among civilizations contributes to improving awareness of these universal values and enhancing understanding of the value of cultural diversity.
In this context, I wish to express my gratitude to China and all Member States, co-sponsors of the resolution for their appreciation of the valuable role of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) in promoting greater understanding and respect among civilizations, cultures, religions and beliefs as well as for UNAOC’ Global Forums considered as a global platform for dialogue among state and non-state actors including civil society organizations, religious leaders, youth, media, artists and athletes.
On the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations, let’s celebrate our diversity;
Let’s recommit to respect our differences;
Let’s protect human dignity, indiscriminately.