Let’s stand together - UN Chief at UNAOC 10th Global Forum | United Nations

Summary

In a compelling address at the Global Forum of the Alliance of Civilizations, the speaker emphasizes the importance of peace, solidarity, and multilateral cooperation amidst global challenges. Highlighting rising xenophobia, racism, and violence, the speaker calls for efforts to rebuild trust and promote understanding across cultures, communities, and online spaces. The speech also stresses the need for inclusive governance, the defense of cultural diversity, and addressing misinformation. With a focus on the legacy of George Samayo and the UN's role, the speaker urges united action to uphold human dignity and international law, fostering a more just and peaceful world.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker expresses gratitude to Professor Dr. Marcelo Reel and the government of Portugal for hosting the Global Forum of the Alliance of Civilizations.
• 😀 The presence of His Majesty King Filipe VI of Spain is highlighted, symbolizing Spain's commitment to the Alliance of Civilizations.
• 😀 Solidarity is extended to the people of Spain following the devastating floods in Valencia.
• 😀 The contributions of Cabo Verde, represented by President José Maria Neves, are recognized for their importance to the forum's discussions.
• 😀 A tribute is paid to the legacy of George Samayo, the first High Representative of the Alliance of Civilizations, for his work as a builder of bridges and a champion of social justice.
• 😀 The speaker stresses the importance of tackling rising xenophobia, racism, and intolerance, which are exacerbated by social media and disinformation.
• 😀 The call for peace is emphasized, focusing on the urgent need for peace in Ukraine, Gaza, Lebanon, and Sudan, based on international law and UN resolutions.
• 😀 A crucial goal is to rebuild trust in the multilateral system, as its absence is contributing to global instability and conflict.
• 😀 The speaker advocates for the building of communities of trust and belonging, with an emphasis on grassroots organizations, marginalized communities, and the inclusion of youth and women in peacebuilding.
• 😀 There is a call to combat online hate speech, misinformation, and discrimination, with the promotion of initiatives like the UN Global Principles for Information Integrity and the Global Digital Compact to create a safer, more inclusive digital space.
• 😀 The role of cultural diversity is presented as vital to advancing global peace and social cohesion, and the need for more representative global institutions is stressed in order to create more effective and inclusive governance.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the Global Forum of the Alliance of Civilizations mentioned in the speech?

The purpose of the Global Forum is to foster dialogue and cooperation among nations, addressing issues related to cultural understanding, human rights, and the promotion of peace across different civilizations and cultures.

Why does the speaker commend Portugal for hosting the forum?

The speaker commends Portugal for hosting the forum because of its historical role in promoting understanding between different cultures, civilizations, and traditions, making it an ideal location for such a gathering.

What specific event does the speaker address regarding Spain's King Filipe VI?

The speaker addresses the devastating floods in the region of Valencia, conveying solidarity with the people of Spain and expressing sympathy for the victims of this tragedy.

Who is George Samayo, and why is he honored in the speech?

George Samayo is a former High Representative of the Alliance of Civilizations, who is honored for his tireless work in building bridges between cultures and advocating for social justice. The commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the Alliance of Civilizations is dedicated to his legacy.

What are the key challenges highlighted by the speaker that threaten global peace?

The key challenges include increasing xenophobia, racism, intolerance, the rise of sectarianism, violations of human rights, climate change, and ongoing conflicts such as the war in Ukraine, the situation in Gaza, and the crisis in Sudan.

What does the speaker emphasize as essential to achieving peace?

The speaker emphasizes the need for a just and peaceful resolution to conflicts, adherence to international law, and the importance of multilateral cooperation in rebuilding trust among nations and societies.

What does the speaker propose as a way to combat online hate speech and disinformation?

The speaker advocates for the implementation of the United Nations' Global Principles for Information Integrity, promoting a more humane information ecosystem. Additionally, the speaker calls for the responsibility of big tech companies, advertisers, and media outlets to address these challenges.

How does the speaker view the role of culture in promoting peace?

The speaker views cultural diversity as a vital asset that fosters trust, innovation, and unity. By respecting and representing all cultures, societies can build resilience against hatred and intolerance.

What is the speaker’s position on the reform of international institutions?

The speaker advocates for the reform of international institutions, particularly the United Nations Security Council and global financial systems, to make them more representative, fair, and capable of addressing modern challenges.

How does the speaker define the core value that unites humanity?

The speaker defines the core value that unites humanity as the recognition of shared dignity, rights, and a common commitment to peace. This unity transcends cultural and religious differences and forms the foundation for collective solidarity.