Thematic Panel 9 - 10th UNAOC Global Forum

Thematic Panel 9: "Speaking in harmony: embracing multilingualism in the 21st century as an enabler of multilateral diplomacy and a vector for cultural diversity"

• H.E. Ambassador Rui Vinhas, Permanent Representative of Portugal to the United Nations, New York
• H.E. Ismail Serageldin, Co-Chair of the Nizami Ganjavi International Center, Former Vice President of the World Bank
• Dr. João Laurentino Neves, Executive Director, Instituto Internacional da Língua Portuguesa
• Professor Ms. Anne-Marie Turcan Verkerk, Former Director of Studies at École Pratique des Hautes Études, Institute for Linguistic Heritage and Diversity (ILARA)
• Dr. Samar Samir Mezghanni, Author, Storyteller, #UNAOCyouth (Tunisia), UNAOC Fellow (2016)

Moderator: Dr. Jamil Kabbara, Board Member, Fondation Ousseimi

Multilingualism, the ability to communicate in multiple languages, is more than just a skill1; it is a key enabler of multilateral diplomacy, a cornerstone of cultural diversity and a vital tool for fostering mutual understanding and cooperation. Beyond its practical function, multilingualism is deeply rooted in the relationship between language and culture. Each language opens a window into the culture from which it emerges, making multilingualism a gateway to increased cultural awareness, empathy, and adaptability in an interconnected world.

Multilingualism plays a crucial role in promoting intercultural dialogue by enabling deeper engagement with diverse cultural perspectives and fostering close connections with multiculturalism. As multiculturalism celebrates the coexistence of diverse identities, multilingualism provides the tools for meaningful exchanges within these diverse settings, fostering empathy and respect. This connection between multilingualism and multiculturalism is essential for building inclusive societies.

This panel will explore various dimensions of multilingualism, including its pivotal role in fostering inclusive societies, bridging cultural gaps, and enhancing multilateral diplomacy. The session will begin by addressing how multilingualism strengthens intercultural dialogue and multilateral diplomacy, bridging cultural and linguistic divides in an interconnected world. It will then explore how multilingualism promotes empathy, respect, and global citizenship, contributing to more inclusive societies.

Building on these foundations, the session will examine the role of multilingualism in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) during the final decade of the 2030 Agenda, with a focus on how linguistic and cultural inclusiveness are key to achieving global goals. By exploring key challenges and opportunities in preserving linguistic and cultural diversity, participants will engage with strategies to promote multilingualism through policy, education, and community-based initiatives. Lastly, practical strategies and good practices from different sectors will be discussed, showcasing how multilingualism can foster social cohesion, intercultural competence, and prepare global citizens to address pressing challenges.

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The 10th UNAOC Global Forum in Cascais, Portugal will convene members of the UNAOC Group of Friends, political leaders, representatives of international and regional organizations, religious leaders and faith actors, the private sector, civil society, academia, youth, arts and media, as well as donor agencies and foundations, who will address the global issues pertinent to peace and security and call for restoring trust and for uniting in peace. 

In Cascais, participants will have an opportunity to reflect on the twenty years of the 'Alliance of Civilizations' initiative, announced by Spain at the 59th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2004, and how UNAOC grew into a vibrant and well-established United Nations entity.

The event will be an occasion to highlight and celebrate UNAOC achievements and map the blueprint for "One Humanity" in the years to come.