Why in news?
The 11th forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) was held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on 14–15 December 2025. India’s delegation, led by Secretary (East) P. Kumaran of the Ministry of External Affairs, emphasised the country’s civilisational values of harmony and inclusiveness, bringing the forum into the national news.
Background
UNAOC was launched in July 2005 by then UN Secretary‑General Kofi Annan and co‑sponsored by Spain and Turkey. The initiative aims to build bridges between diverse societies, counter extremist narratives and promote respect for cultural and religious diversity. A high‑level group of 20 eminent individuals initially steered the programme and identified priority areas such as youth engagement, education, media and migration. Over the past two decades, the alliance has organised global forums to foster dialogue among governments, faith leaders, civil society, youth and the media.
India’s participation
- Message of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: In Riyadh, Secretary Kumaran reiterated India’s ancient ethos of “the world is one family”. He underlined that India’s Constitution guarantees equal respect for all faiths, echoing the principle of Sarva Dharma Sambhav.
- Inclusive development: The delegation highlighted India’s initiatives to support education, gender equality and technological empowerment for youth, noting that economic and social inclusion reduces the appeal of extremist ideologies.
- Support for UNAOC goals: India reaffirmed its commitment to working with the alliance on interfaith dialogue, cultural exchange and development projects. Indian delegates also spoke about the nation’s “LiFE” (Lifestyle for Environment) mission, which seeks to blend traditional wisdom with modern sustainability.
Significance
- Strengthening multilateralism: By engaging actively with UNAOC, India signals its support for international cooperation in countering intolerance and fostering inclusive societies.
- Cultural soft power: Showcasing concepts like Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and Sarva Dharma Sambhav enhances India’s image as a pluralistic democracy and a source of spiritual wisdom.
- Youth engagement: UNAOC’s focus on youth aligns with India’s own demographic dividend. Partnerships forged at the forum could support intercultural education and grassroots peacebuilding initiatives.
Conclusion
The Riyadh forum reaffirmed the importance of dialogue and mutual respect in a world challenged by polarisation. India’s contributions, rooted in its inclusive civilisational ethos, underscored how cultural values can guide global cooperation. Building on these messages, UNAOC participants committed to collaborative projects that advance tolerance, education and social cohesion.
Source: News On Air
