Conflict resolution in international affairs is currently undergoing enormous pressures, due in part to the challenges of globalisation and its many cultural, religious and economic contexts. To address this crisis, which has sadly been described as a “Clash of Civilisations”, we propose a dialogue among civilisations: an inter-active international symposium to contribute meaningfully to the promotion of a global culture of prevention and non-violent conflict resolution, mediation and negotiation.
Today’s world of globalisation is marked by immense wealth and acute poverty. Moreover, total concentration on wealth creation and economic growth – without our knowing how or why – has led to an erosion of moral and spiritual values. It has also resulted in a destructive decline in the institutions that have traditionally promoted and protected these essential human values: the family, religious institutions and community structures. There is a growing a poverty of values such as love, compassion, justice, morality, solidarity, spirituality and faith, alongside an increase of materialism and consumerism in many parts of the world. And when social justice and human rights are routinely denied for the seemingly invisible amongst us, peace remains only a dream.
We believe there is an alternative, based on the moral and spiritual values shared by all the world religions. The mystic tradition in every faith affirms that all of life is sacred. The most powerful way for faith-based and spiritual communities to influence beliefs, norms and institutions is through a prophetic voice and public action. Highly visible faith and interfaith affirmation of the great spiritual truths of peace, justice and the sacredness of the Earth and human life can make a tremendous contribution to the non-violent path of conflict resolution and the creation of a world that is just, free and prosperous. Action and service by spiritual and faith communities and groups can provide a vital source of inspiration and energy for the healing of the world.
