On 30-31 May 2023, the UNESCO Regional Office in Beirut, in close collaboration with the Anna Lindh foundation, hosted the Arab Regional launch of the
UNESCO Framework for Enabling Intercultural Dialogue (ICD).
During the 2-day technical meeting, UNESCO and the Anna Lindh Foundation convened a diverse group of participants, including youth researchers, civil society representatives, policy makers, academia, and experts, to discuss and promote ICD in the Arab region.
In her opening remarks, the ALF President, HRH Princess Rym Ali, highlighted that "Diversity is a fact but inclusion is a choice. Proud to share Anna Lindh's words at the Arab launch of UNESCO's framework for enabling Intercultural Dialogue. With UNESCO, we strive to foster ICD for EuroMed youth and uphold diversity, inclusion and equality".
The regional consultation focused on sharing the key findings of the UNESCO 2022 report "We Need to Talk: Measuring Intercultural Dialogue for Peace and Inclusion." Participants also had the opportunity to explore the e-platform for ICD and discuss the synergies between the UNESCO Framework and other global instruments in the region. The event tackled two overarching topics: culture and art; media and ICT.
The outcome of this regional consultation included a roadmap for collaboration in promoting ICD in the Arab region; and the consolidation of a regional network of ICD stakeholders, paving the way for continued dialogue and action towards a more inclusive and cohesive societies across the region.
