UN adopts resolution promoting inter-religious talks co-sponsored by PH

The United Nations (UN) has adopted a resolution jointly sponsored by the Philippines and Pakistan that aims to promote inter-religious and inter-cultural dialogue to achieve peace and stability.

The international body adopted on Dec. 18 by consensus a resolution on the “Promotion of inter-religious and inter-cultural dialogue, understanding and cooperation for peace.”

Since 2004, the Philippines and Pakistan have been spearheading the talks for the resolution under UN General Assembly’s culture of peace agenda. 

But this year, the two countries made a more streamlined version of the biennial resolution for the General Assembly’s consideration after informal consultations with member states, with the thematic elements of the previous resolution maintained.

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the resolution aims "to promote inter-religious and intercultural dialogue with an objective of achieving peace and stability and promoting a culture of peace."

It aims to "strengthen mechanisms and actions for promotion of a genuine and constructive dialogue across the cultural and religious divide," DFA added.
The resolution also calls on member states and political and religious leaders to promote inclusion and unity to combat racism, xenophobia, hate speech, violence and discrimination.

“With your invaluable support, we are hopeful that the United Nations General Assembly will reinforce its enduring pledge to foster and retain a Culture of Peace – a commitment that is more essential now than ever,” Philippine Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN Antonio Lagdameo and Pakistan Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN Munir Akram said in their joint letter to all nembers of the United Nations before the adoption of the resolution.

The resolution underlines the important role of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the invaluable contributions of the UN Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) in promoting interreligious and intercultural dialogue at all levels.

It also recognizes that the open public debate of ideas, as well as interfaith and intercultural dialogue, at the local, national and international levels can be among the best protections against religious intolerance, and can play a positive role in strengthening democracy and combating religious hatred.