The 11th Global Forum began in Riyadh with a key message: dialogue is essential for survival in a world filled with mistrust. Over the next two days, participants in the Saudi capital will stress the necessity of cross-cultural, religious, and community cooperation to navigate growing polarization and conflict. UN Secretary-General António Guterres countered claims that the Alliance’s mission is unrealistic, asserting that diplomacy and cooperation are vital. Launched in 2005 by then-Secretary-General Kofi Annan with support from Spain and Turkey, the Alliance continues to combat extremism and intolerance, aiming for harmonious coexistence among diverse cultures and faiths. Guterres highlighted two possible futures: one of fear and conflict, the other of cultural bridges leading to lasting peace. He emphasized that a future of enduring peace requires abandoning violence and fostering coexistence. He identified youth, women and girls, and people of faith as pivotal forces for positive change, urging delegates to embrace the Alliance’s mission with determination.
The Riyadh communiqué was endorsed by participating countries, advocating for religious tolerance and prioritizing education to foster dialogue, human rights, and peaceful societies. The document reinforces the Alliance’s goal to bolster cultural and religious cooperation while promoting respect, understanding, and inclusion.
UNAOC High Representative Miguel Moratinos emphasized the need for equal representation of all cultures in shaping the global future, warning against the resurgence of hatred and discrimination. Citing the Koran, he urged recognition of diversity as a strength and condemned Islamophobia and anti-Semitism, advocating for criticism of governments without demonizing communities.
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s dedication to intercultural dialogue, highlighting initiatives to promote dialogue and counter extremism. He warned against religiously and nationally motivated extremism and hate speech, urging nations to reinforce, not abandon, dialogue, communication, and coexistence.
The Forum also focused on AI-driven disinformation, cautioning against deepfakes and algorithmically amplified hate speech. Ismail Serageldin likened the AI moment to the calculator’s invention, emphasizing adaptation and the potential of AI for work-life balance with proper safeguards. Achraf Tasfaout stressed the need for regulations to manage AI’s impact on hate speech and deepfake differentiation, highlighting the role of policymakers, journalists, and youth in creating solutions. Atif Rashid warned of premature AI system releases, emphasizing the need for human-centric designs rooted in values.
The UN media team will continue covering the Forum, with stories, interviews, and broadcasts available on UN News and WebTV, and broadcast-quality videos on UNifeed.
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