New Humanity NGO, through the NGO-UNESCO Liaison Committee, played a central role in supporting this initiative, organizing a round table to demonstrate how interfaith and intercultural dialogue can drive united human values, even in a challenging world.

Key Takeaways from the Round-Table

Several influential speakers shared valuable insights during the round-table, shedding light on diverse perspectives:

• Bérengère Savelieff (Pax Christi): Presented a compelling case for inter-religious collaboration based on a UN resolution, sharing a field experience from the Congo that demonstrated how dialogue drives actionable change in conflict-affected areas.
• Maria Teresa Siniscalco: Showed how interfaith dialogue enriches school education, with examples from schools in Pakistan and Slovenia, illustrating its role in building bridges between young people of different backgrounds.
• Reverend Youshiharu (WFB & Religions for Peace Japan): Explored how interfaith approaches address ethical dilemmas in emerging fields like Artificial Intelligence, showcasing the relevance of spiritual perspectives in modern challenges.
• Professor Fabio Petito: Argued for closer collaboration between religious organizations and governments, emphasizing that this partnership is essential for tackling contemporary global issues effectively.

Building Momentum for Action

The discussions also served as a platform to strengthen the role of interfaith dialogue in global policymaking. Panelists and participants expressed their willingness to present the work of the NGO-UNESCO Liaison Committee to key delegations, including those of France and Italy, to garner support for a UNESCO resolution. The next step involves reaching out to additional member states of UNESCO’s Executive Board to build broad-based backing.

Furthermore, the round-table reinforced the unity and commitment of the NGO-UNESCO Liaison Committee. This shared sense of purpose will drive ongoing initiatives, including a magazine project led by Pax Christi. The magazine will highlight the committee’s collective achievements, further advancing advocacy efforts with UNESCO member states.

Why This Matters

The conference was a powerful reminder that inter-religious dialogue is not just theoretical; it creates real, measurable change. From shaping educational practices to addressing complex ethical questions, it fosters collaboration that transcends cultural and religious boundaries.

We invite you to watch the sessions and be inspired by the stories and strategies shared:

• October 28 Morning Session | October 28 Afternoon Session
• October 29 Morning Session | October 29 Afternoon Session

L'articolo Round table at UNESCO – How interfaith dialogue is building inclusive and peaceful societies proviene da New Humanity.

Focus of the event was the presentation of recommendations for the European Union from the DialogUE project – “Diverse Identities Allied, Open, to Generate a United Europe” on issues crucial to the current European and world situation, summarized in the “DialogUE Kit” brochure.

“You can see with the naked eye that something happens when people of peace talk,” said MEP Catarina Martins of the European Left, who opened the meeting in a hall of the European Parliament. “And this is just such a moment. Dialogue is a powerful tool for peace.”

The project stems from the decades-long commitment of New Humanity, an expression of the Focolare Movement, which has significantly promoted good practices in interreligious and intercultural dialogue. The approach fosters mutual respect and trust, essential elements for fruitful dialogue and collaborative efforts.

Francisco Canzani, general counselor for the Culture and Study area of the Focolare Movement emphasized in his speech that dialogue is built from three elements: attitudes, tools, and method. On the latter, the method of differentiated consensus and qualified dissent, which originated within the platform between Christians and Marxists DIALOP, is now a source of inspiration and practice for other dialogue groups.

In 2023 and 2024, the project involved 4 dialogue groups in 3 main areas: Communication, Ecology and Social Policy. The dialogue groups were:

• Among Christian citizens through the Together4Europe platform.
• Between Christians and Muslims through the Focolare Movement’s Center for Interreligious Dialogue.
• Between Christians and people who do not identify with a religious belief, through the DIALOP platform for cross-religious dialogue
• Between Western and Eastern European citizens through the Multipolar Dialogue Group.

The project mainly facilitated the dissemination of the meaning and methodologies necessary for effective dialogue. It also brought together international experts on these three key challenges, who helped participants understand the main EU documents on these topics and explore the different dimensions of each theme.

The groups worked together to identify shared principles and common proposals. Their work led to recommendations that were submitted to the European Parliament.

The DialogUE project — was promoted by a consortium of 14 civil society organizations from 9 EU member countries.

Among the main results achieved by the project: 12 international meetings and a training for facilitators and experts; the direct involvement of 1,200 citizens and more than 10,000 indirectly; and the creation of the “Dialogue Kit,” intended for educators, NGOs, and policymakers to promote dialogue and social cohesion. These meetings resulted in shared recommendations for EU decision makers to promote more inclusive and sustainable policies.

In the afternoon of October 16, a discussion group hosted by KU Leuven (University of Leuven) in Brussels was held, during which participants analyzed some good practices that emerged from the project and discussed how to further disseminate these initiatives through the ‘Dialogue Kit.

For information about the project: https://www.new-humanity.org/en/project/dialogue/

To review the event click here:

Fisrt published by focolare.org.

L'articolo Final Conference of the DialogUE Project presents and discusses recommendations created by 4 dialogue groups in the European Parliament proviene da New Humanity.

This event will be a moment of reflection and sharing, where we will discuss the outcomes of the meaningful dialogues we have facilitated. Join us to celebrate our achievements and the connections made throughout this journey.

Register now to participate in the evening session: https://forms.office.com/e/DbXiW5EZR2

We look forward to seeing you there! 

Get to know more about the project here!

L'articolo DialogUE Project Final Event proviene da New Humanity.

From October 18 to 20, 2024, experts and visionaries from across the globe will convene in Castel Gandolfo, Italy, and Cordoba, Argentina, for the International Meeting on Relational Sustainability. This gathering seeks to foster a new synthesis of personal, environmental, social, and economic dimensions through a holistic and collaborative approach.

Relational Sustainability emphasizes the interconnections between individuals, society, and nature. It promotes deep, meaningful relationships at every level—interpersonal, societal, and environmental—to lay the foundation for a just, resilient, and sustainable world. The event will spotlight how human and natural sciences can contribute to this integration, addressing today’s complex challenges, including climate change, resource depletion, and social inequalities.

The conference will explore a variety of themes, such as Integral Ecology, Sustainable Development, and Environmental Ethics. Participants will also discuss technological solutions for ecological issues, sustainable urban planning, and the role of education in fostering a culture of sustainability. The program will feature keynote addresses, interactive workshops, roundtables, and poster presentations, allowing for cross-disciplinary collaboration and innovative problem-solving.

Organized by New Humanity and supported by leading global initiatives like EcoOne, SocialOne, and the Economy of Communion, the meeting invites governments, businesses, non-profits, and individuals to engage in meaningful dialogue. This gathering embodies the Focolare Movement’s commitment to unity and dialogue, encouraging participants to envision sustainable solutions that benefit both people and the planet.

The poster 

The flyer (Call for Papers)

The abstract submission forms

Second Circolar

For more information on how to participate, submit abstracts, or register for the event, please visit the official conference page.

L'articolo International Meeting RELATIONAL SUSTAINABILITY proviene da New Humanity.

The project – co-financed by the European Commission – aims at cooperation between the two continents to address global challenges such as migration flows, climate change, inequalities, and conflicts. But in a new dimension – horizontal, equal – between Europe and Africa. It takes place through a series of virtual exchanges and through training initiatives for young Africans and Europeans, involving the different dimensions of personal development: emotional, relational, civic, political, and entrepreneurial skills.

FIRST MEETING OF 2024: A GRAND START!

On May 11th, the first – online – meeting of 2024 took place, full of activities and speeches. Delegates from Italy, Spain, Ivory Coast, Uganda, Belgium, and Kenya participated. Representatives from Slovenia and Luxembourg were also invited. Joseph handled the technical aspects, while Elisa and Simon Peter guided the event as speakers.

After an introduction to illustrate both the project itself and Living Peace International (LP is one of the peace education training programs within AFR.E.S.H), three experiences were shared on the use of the Peace Dice in Spain, Kenya, and Uganda. There was also a “time-out” moment (a minute of silence, prayer, or reflection on peace). Following this, participants were involved in discussions in both separate rooms and in plenary session. The day concluded with a sharing session involving all attendees.

SECOND MEETING OF 2024: ART AND SPORT AS TOOLS FOR PEACE

The second AFR.E.S.H. meeting took place on May 25th. The chosen theme was “art and sport as privileged tools for building peace between the two continents.” A total of 63 representatives from various European and African countries participated.

Carlos, the founder of Living Peace International, shared with everyone how art can truly be a tool for peace. An art teacher from Uganda then shared what he had learned in his ten years of experience. Participants were then divided into groups for a moment of discussion and reflection on the theme at the heart of the debate. Each shared their own – unique – story.

THIRD MEETING OF 2024: BUILDING BRIDGES BETWEEN GENERATIONS, RELIGIONS, AND CULTURES

The third meeting of 2024 – on June 8th – focused on “building bridges between generations, religions, and cultures.” Representatives from Italy, Ivory Coast, Uganda, Spain, and Belgium participated, as well as delegates from Burundi, Benin, Guinea Bissau, and Guinea Conakry. In total, 60 people.

Experts from Africa and Europe shared their experiences. Participants were divided into different groups to delve deeper into discussions, then all came together for a moment of common reflection.

This 2024 cycle of meetings for the AFR.E.S.H project demonstrated the practical importance of intercultural cooperation and training for peacebuilding, and equally important, the exchange and sharing of personal experiences.

L'articolo Three Stages of AFR.E.S.H: The Path Towards Peace and Global Development proviene da New Humanity.

From May 30 to June 2 in Castel Gandolfo (RM), the second of three job shadowing meetings was held as part of the Erasmus+ project “M.E.D.I.T.erraNEW,” with the participation of educational partners from France, Spain, Italy, Croatia, Egypt, and Lebanon.

The project aims to facilitate a pedagogical exchange between associations from Mediterranean countries working with youths aged 13 to 17, focusing on minors with a migratory background. The goal is to renew and enhance educational programs in a multidisciplinary and integrated manner and to implement them for the benefit of the young people in contact with these organizations. 

During the meeting, work sessions on the presentation and exchange of methodologies opened with the integration of minors with a migratory background. Azione Famiglie Nuove presented the “Fare Sistema Oltre l’Accoglienza” (FSOA) project, a program of social and occupational inclusion. Significant were the testimonies of Steve and Mamhou, respectively an educator at Casa Ismaele in Calabria, and a young person previously accommodated there. They highlighted key aspects such as the importance of welcoming, accepting differences, building support networks in the community, and especially a personalized intervention approach for each foreign minor under their care, with whom an individualized educational pact is carried out. This tool was appreciated by all educators present. The narratives showed how understanding others leads to overcoming prejudices and stereotypes, forming the basis for effective inclusion. Additionally, the effectiveness of the peer-to-peer methodology implemented by already integrated young foreigners towards their peers was highlighted.

Educational programs on peace education and active citizenship were then presented, including the international project “Living Peace” and the methodology “Six Steps for One Goal” (6X1), inspired by Service Learning. These are promoted in schools and other informal educational settings for youth in many countries. The proposed pedagogical tools led to shared work and a commitment to apply these methods in various contexts, with active participation of young people, creating exchange relationships, dialogue, and conflict resolution.

The testimonies of some young peace ambassadors were a moment of great involvement, demonstrating how peace starts from each individual and begins with small daily actions that every young person can take, with amplified impacts in their living context.

The following days were dedicated to intercultural and interreligious dialogue, through sharing methodologies and best practices that value dialogue, respect for others’ beliefs, and building relationships based on the Golden Rule found in major faiths, summarized as “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Facilitated by the context of the international symposium “One Human Family,” which included over 400 participants – Jews, Muslims, Sikhs, Hindus, Baha’is, and representatives of traditional African religions – the role of religions in weaving bonds of fraternity was highlighted. Testimonies from people in different conflict contexts demonstrated that engaging with others transforms many polarizations into supportive human relationships.

Discussions with educators addressed current issues such as the impact of new technologies and artificial intelligence on dialogue with new generations, and economic and environmental sustainability. The ongoing exchange of methodological approaches and between educators from diverse socio-cultural backgrounds has strengthened the intercultural competencies necessary for the interweaving of peoples and cultures in the Mediterranean. It has laid the foundation for more effective educational action for young people, based on an approach that better meets their needs and requirements.

Collaboration, network creation, organizational growth, and the enhancement of intercultural and interreligious dialogue emerged as key elements for creating a spirit of fraternity and peace in the Mediterranean basin.

Discover the project: https://www.new-humanity.org/project/mediterranew/

Lead organization: Centro Internazionale Studenti Giorgio La Pira – Fondazione.

Project partners: New Humanity; Fondazione Igino Giordani; Humanité Nouvelle; United World for Social Services; Cooperativa Gen Rosso; Azione Famiglie Nuove; Udruga Za Ekonomiju Zajednistva; Fonds Focolari Actions Solidarité.

L'articolo Network and Dialogue for the Creation of a Spirit of Unity and Peace in the Mediterranean Basin proviene da New Humanity.

“Embracing Hope.” With this wish, about 200 people from the Americas, Africa, the Middle East, Asia and all over Europe met at the Mariapolis Center in Castel Gandolfo (Rome) from May 16 to 19.

They are the contact persons of the New Humanity movement,  the social expression of the Focolare Movement, New Humanity the NGO with consultative status in the United Nations, along with representatives of disciplines that dialogue with contemporary culture, the contact persons of Teens4Unity and of AMU (Action for a United World), the NGO that deals with special projects and development.

Also in attendance was a delegation of very young high school students who are part of Living Peace International, along with young ambassadors for peace, such as Joseph, from Sierra Leone, who narrated how at the age of six he was recruited as a child soldier and has now become a young peace leader.

For some time now, these various social expressions -each with its own characteristics and goals- have been working together to help provide concrete responses to the burning issues and expectations of the contemporary world: “Together for Humanity” is their new name. Taking up the Pope’s invitation to the Focolare Movement during a private audience on Dec. 7, 2023, which was to “be artisans of peace in a world torn apart by conflict,” they wanted to dedicate the meeting precisely to peace.

An experience of listening, communal reflection and concrete planning, carried out in the eight communities distinguished by areas and passions. A journey that will continue with the Genfest in Brazil next July, intertwine with the United Nations Summit for Future in September 2024, and with the event in Nairobi with the youth and cities of the world, on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the United Nations. During the meeting, those present, with the help of experts and testimonies, professors, diplomats, social and cultural actors, and organized citizens, reflected on the issue of what is peace, if it is indeed possible to achieve it and by what means.

So many touching experiences from countries in conflict. From Syria, they recounted the brutality of the war they have been experiencing since 2011, aggravated by the embargo affecting an exhausted population. AMU projects such as RESTART, which supports micro businesses with loans and personalized mentoring, have helped slow constant migration processes. Christiane, from Lebanon, despite the situation in her country, characterized by very high inflation and high emigration rates aggravated by the impacts of the war in the Middle East, did not give up: she set up with her husband a productive enterprise for family support and to also help other artisans and rural producers sell their products. The productive initiative also extended to Egypt. From Congo, the fruits of the school for training leaders for peace were presented. A graduate of this school, Joëlle, a journalist and a presidential candidate of the Republic of Congo, launched her presidential platform with the values of peace and social justice. Youths from Ukraine greeted those present with a video, and so did some youths from Bethlehem, Pakistan, Cuba, and the Philippines. The “Together for a New Africa” (T4NA) project for African youth interested in changing the continent was presented: trained hundreds of youth and involved another 9,000 youth in an experience that reached 14 African nations.  The same is being done in Mexico with the National Agenda for Peace, in the United States with courageous conversations against racism.

There is a need for true peace and human rights education as well as the need to name conflicts, exploring their reasons, trying to resolve them with a community strategy that listens to diverse and plural positions which precedes and accompanies every negotiation. It has been said that peace is not only the absence of war. Not everything that is called order is peace. It is not ideological: it is not pacifism. It is the condition in which each person can think and realize his own future. But we need to learn dialogue as a methodology, with which to be willing to lose something for the greater good. This is basically the reason for which perhaps negotiations are not progressive and even international organizations do not seem to be able to handle the crisis. Dialogue, trust, local and global networks, inter-generation, community. We start from here, from these key words, encouraged also by Margaret Karram and Jesús Morán , President and Co-President of the Focolare Movement, who were present on the final day. This is the road to peace, to which we want to contribute concretely, and together.

Mario Bruno
Photo © Matías Blanco

First published in focolare.org. 

L'articolo ‘Together for Humanity’: Peace and Dialogue as a Methodology proviene da New Humanity.

The first day’s work session focused on intercultural aspects. The “Centro Internazionale studenti Giorgio La Pira” presented to the partners the vision of Mayor Giorgio La Pira, its operational mechanisms, and the “Crescendo” project, which is an intervention in global citizenship education in secondary schools. International colleagues had the opportunity to attend an interactive presentation of the “Crescendo” project and were also actively involved in the project experience. As the guests admitted, the presentation made them realize the deep-rooted stereotypes in our minds and society and the resulting narratives, which often lead to conflict situations.

As Anna from the “Living Peace – International” organization concluded:

“It is very important to work with conflicts and live through them, (…) they are part of our life; we cannot simply close our eyes or run away. It is important to experience them together to better understand it and ourselves. Stereotypes create prejudices, and this cannot lead to peace. Only by living together can we all understand this better, which is a crucial preventive step for further conflict escalation.”

Our French partners added:

“To maintain peace, it is essential to work and educate our children to help them grow and become human beings capable of conflict management and aware of the importance of peace.”

During the second day’s work session, the center shared the teaching method of the Italian language and culture “Italian in Florence,” a language school with a specific intercultural and inclusive methodology. The guests were introduced to the Center’s long-term project where language is seen as a key tool for integration and a crucial aspect of creating dialogue. Our foreign guests had the opportunity to look behind the scenes of the Italian language courses and, for those with no prior knowledge of Italian, to learn something new.

“Mare Nostrum” or “Our Sea” was the Roman name for the Mediterranean Sea, encapsulating a sense of regional belonging. Only by creating networks, improving dialogue among people, and focusing on humanity and collaboration instead of competition, can we strengthen the sense of broader regional inclusion. The “M.E.D.I.T.erraNEW” project held two work sessions in Florence, which created new collaborative networks across the sea and made some steps towards transforming the Mediterranean Sea from a basin of death into a more inclusive Mare Nostrum.

L'articolo Network in the Mediterranean Sea for Youth Education proviene da New Humanity.

Participants discussed the importance of a holistic vision of ecology, which concerns the physical environment and our relationship with creation and each other. This vision, termed “ecology of relationships,” emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life forms and the need to act together to address global challenges. The centrality of human and divine relationships in this context was highlighted, with an appeal for greater solidarity and collaboration.

Among the speakers, Professor Nicolaos Asproulis, Vice-Director of the Academy of Volos (Greece) for theological studies, emphasized the importance of interpersonal relationships and communion as a foundation for addressing ecological challenges. Professor Stefania Papa from the University of Campania delved into the intrinsic relationality of nature, highlighting how every living being is part of a complex network of interactions.

The experts’ interventions underscored the importance of integrating ecological principles into various dimensions of daily life. Various initiatives were presented, from renewable energy communities to promoting sustainable investments. The urgency of systemic changes at the global level to address environmental and social challenges was also discussed.

The event highlighted the importance of receiving and implementing the teachings of Laudato Si’, the Pope’s document that has had a significant impact beyond the Catholic world. Ecumenism emerged as a key element in addressing environmental challenges, with various churches and religious organizations collaborating to promote integral ecology.

Dr. Nikolaos Asproulis, with his background in Eastern theological vision, articulated the centrality of human relationships in the context of divine creation. Don Emanuel Enrique Barrios, Secretary-General of COMECE in Brussels, instead focused on the reception of the principles of Laudato Si’ in ecclesial and social life.

Dr. Lorna Gold of Faithinvest offered a financial perspective, emphasizing the importance of changing investment systems to promote responsible management of financial resources.

Finally, concrete experiences of applying inclusive ecology, embracing both the natural and social environment, were shared. From local actions to reduce noise pollution to ecumenical initiatives for the conservation of creation, a wide range of practices aimed at promoting positive change emerged. These on-the-ground experiences further enriched the debate and underscored the importance of translating ecological ideals into concrete actions for a tangible impact on our world.

Find here the texts of the speakers.

L'articolo Called to unity – Toward an ecology of relationships proviene da New Humanity.

• Inclusion is integral to sustainability  

Inclusion lies at the heart of sustainability, as protecting the planet requires the commitment and participation of everyone, regardless of background or circumstance. The project emphasized the importance of engaging diverse communities, including minorities and marginalized groups, in sustainability initiatives.  

In Lithuania, the activities were developed with a multinational group, with Poles, Belarusians, Ukrainians, and other nationalities. Inclusion was sought by overcoming the language barrier. In Hungary, the project had a special focus on the Roma people, one of the minority populations in the country. In Italy, a summer campus was held in the most peripheral and marginalized district of the city creating a sense of belonging and accomplishment. 

• Communitarian empowerment through active participation  

Practical engagement, such as transforming school spaces into green areas or participating in community clean-up activities, empowers individuals to take ownership of sustainability efforts and inspires a sense of responsibility towards the environment. 

Collaboration among stakeholders, including local communities, educators, policymakers, and project participants, is essential for achieving meaningful and lasting sustainability outcomes. The project emphasized the importance of fostering partnerships and collective action. 

• Local actions can have global impact 

The project exemplifies the importance of local initiatives in contributing to global sustainability efforts. During their visit to Brussels and European institutions, the participants learned how their local activities could effectively influence decisions at the European Union level, demonstrating the interconnectedness of local and global spheres. 

• Sharing knowledge amplifies impact 

During the training activities, participants have learned and experienced how sharing knowledge, experiences, and best practices with broader audiences amplifies the impact of sustainability initiatives, inspiring others to take action and fostering a culture of learning and collaboration.  

A social media campaign was developed to engage young people with a wider audience and spread the message of sustainability and inclusion. Formation and information went hand in hand during the Media Training and equipped the youth and the partners with skills to share their actions and learnings in an international and entertaining way. Developing a social campaign requires dedication, constancy and collaboration – posts made with cross-posting tools have been the most successful and the results can still reach greater heights. 

• Cultural and linguistic diversity as assets  

 Cultural and linguistic diversity is a great challenge and can create many barriers for engagement, but embracing it enriches community efforts and promotes mutual understanding and tolerance. Overcoming language barriers and fostering inclusive spaces enable diverse communities to collaborate towards common goals. 

The Greenclusive project is a winning partnership of 7 organizations in 6 European countries, co-funded by the European Union.  

Partners:  

L'articolo Results and lessons learned about ecology and inclusion from Greenclusive project proviene da New Humanity.