PURPOSE: The notion of “civilization” is not easy to define and can be subject to misinterpretation. However, the UNESCO regards it as a universal, pluralistic, and non-hierarchical reality, recognizing that civilizations are inherently shaped by intercultural dynamics while retaining their unique identities. The United Nations General Assembly have adopted the Resolution A/RES/78/286, declaring June 10th as International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations on June 7th, 2024. The resolution acknowledges the essential role of dialogue in fostering awareness and understanding of universal values, as outlined in the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, reaffirming that civilizational achievements are part of humanity’s shared heritage.
FORUM: “Promoting dialogue among civilizations, Strengthening global solidarity and cooperation.“ International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations 2025. The theme of this year will underscore the importance of respecting civilizational diversity and highlight "the crucial role of dialogue" in maintaining global peace, advancing shared development, enhancing human well-being, and achieving collective progress. Dialogue is commonly defined as consultation and exchanging of thoughts and ideas between states, peoples, or individuals to reach a common understanding on a specific controversial issue. Thus, dialogue is a means to overcome hardships and obstacles and achieve a meeting point between talkers. Using dialogue eventually results in consensus and compromise among talkers in an atmosphere of mutual respect by concentrating on what brings them together rather than what brings them apart and away from aspects of winning and losing. Dialogue has different forms, including dialogue among civilizations, intercultural dialogue, and interfaith dialogue. We need dialogue today more than ever as our world witness various turmoil and changes, extremism, hate speech, and populism. With dialogue, we can stop these problems from aggravating and reach just solutions and avoid the negative and destructive impacts of these problems, not only on their parties but also on international peace and security. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #10June, #DialogueamongCivilizations, #mutualunderstanding, #civilizationalvalue.
EVENTS: On June 10th, the Special Rapporteur in the field of cultural rights, the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief; the UNAOC and the UNESCO will held a high-level event to mark the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations 2025. The observance will provide an opportunity to raise awareness of the value of the diversity of civilizations and promoting dialogue, mutual respect and global solidarity. The participants will debate on the ways work to foster a more harmonious and interconnected world.
On June 9th, 2025; The People’s Republic of China, in collaboration with fellow permanent missions and the UN Secretariat, will hold a thematic Dialogue to mark the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations entitled “Promoting dialogue among civilizations, Strengthening global solidarity and cooperation.” Watch the livestream!
CULTURAL PERFORMANCE: An art performance entitled ‘‘ Beyond Borders: Weaving Cultures Through Artistic Expressions.’’ will be held. Watch the livestream!
STATEMENTS: “As we mark the 80th anniversary of UN at a time of profound global challenges, I hope this International Day for #DialogueAmongCivilizations will encourage us to reaffirm commitment to dialogue, and celebrate the rich diversity of civilizations, which inspires and unites us all.” Mr. Fu Cong; Permanent Representative of the People's Republic of China to the United Nations. Former Chinese Ambassador to the EU.
PODCASTS: Let’s reaffirm our commitment to dialogue, and to celebrate the rich diversity of civilizations, which inspires and unites us all. Listen to the audio-podcasts!
CAMPAIGN MATERIALS: Promoting dialogue among civilizations, Strengthening global solidarity and cooperation. Get the communication materials!
WHY WE CELEBRATE THE DAY?
HOW TO GET INVOLVED!
PARTNERSHIPS
The urgent need for solidarity, dialogue, and cooperation has never been more evident. Dialogue among civilizations remains the most effective way to eliminate discrimination and prejudice, foster mutual understanding and trust, strengthen relationships among nations, and reinforce global solidarity.
Find common ground in addressing the pressing challenges of our time
Foster awareness and appreciation of the universal values shared by humankind
Promote peaceful coexistence based on mutual respect.
Contribute to world peace, human welfare, development, and progress.