Communication key to peaceful world
Conflicts of all kinds on the global stage have heightened the need for intercultural communication, an instrument that can help focus on common interests and promote the formation of core values, said experts at a conference.
Conflict begins when dialogue ceases, so we must recognize the equal dignity of all peoples and engage in dialogue based on respect, a willingness to listen, curiosity about others and understanding and empathy, said Irina Bokova, UNESCO's director-general from 2009 to 2017.
"We must counter any movement toward isolationism by renewing respect toward other cultures," Bokova said at the 11th International Academy for Intercultural Research Biennial Conference and the 15th China Association for Intercultural Communication Annual Conference on Monday in Shanghai.