The theme:
UNAOC: Two decades of dialogue for humanity: advancing a new era of mutual respect and understanding in a multipolar world.
Why should you care?
On all continents, intolerance and xenophobia are increasing. Cultural and religious differences are being used as weapons to justify violence and exclusion. Hate speech – especially online – is increasing, deepening mistrust and eroding social cohesion.
In this climate, UNAOC’s mission – to promote mutual respect and understanding across cultures and religions – has never been more urgent.
Why was UNAOC created?
The Alliance was born in the shadow of tragedy. After the 9/11 attacks in the United States and subsequent bombings in Bali, Madrid, London and Istanbul, Spain and Turkey co-sponsored an initiative to overcome divisions.
Launched in 2005 by then-UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, UNAOC set out to prevent identity-based conflicts and turn diversity into a source of strength, not a pretext for violence.
What does the Alliance do?
Guided by the motto ‘Many Cultures. One Humanity’, UNAOC has become a leading United Nations platform for intercultural dialogue. His work covers youth participation, education, media literacy, migration and combating hate speech.
From empowering women as peace mediators to harnessing the unifying power of sport and art, the Alliance has launched projects that challenge stereotypes, prevent extremism and promote inclusion. Its alumni network now includes hundreds of peacemakers making a difference around the world.
What is happening in Riyadh?
The Forum will feature:
- A high-level meeting of the Friends of UNAOC Group, which now has 161 members.
- The Youth Forum, which highlights alumni who have driven change in their communities.
- Thematic sessions on pressing issues: AI-powered disinformation, women on the frontlines of peace, migration and human dignity, and combating hate speech.
- PLURAL+ Youth Video Festival, celebrating creative voices fighting xenophobia and promoting diversity.
What is the expected result?
The Forum is expected to adopt the Riyadh Declaration, which charts the next chapter of the UNAOC. New partnerships and agreements will be announced for 2026 and beyond, along with proposed recommendations that will be incorporated into the Alliance’s 2027-2031 Action Plan.
Twenty years later, UNAOC’s message is clear: dialogue is not a luxury: it is a lifeline for humanity in an increasingly fragmented world.
Here’s how to follow the forum:
The UN media team will cover the Forum in Riyadh.
- UN News will be in Riyadh to cover the meeting and provide stories and interviews.
- Live and on-demand broadcasts will be available on WebTV.
- Broadcast-quality video and story packages will be available on UNifeed.