Through partnerships with institutions and representatives of diverse religions and cultures, we’ve supported key initiatives in Human Rights & Peace, Dialogue, Youth, and Ecology, fostering social cohesion and advocating for positive change. Here are the highlights of our work in 2024: 

• Human Rights & Peace 

Despite advancements like artificial intelligence reshaping our world, inequality and hunger remain pressing issues. In collaboration with NetOne and the Mission of the Holy See, we launched “AI: A Pathway to Global Peace and Integral Human Development” at the UNHQ in New York, fostering a critical dialogue on the ethics of AI. We also participated in the seminar “The Right to Food: Between Deprivation and Waste” at the FAO headquarters in Rome, sharing impactful initiatives addressing hunger and sustainability.  

New Humanity took significant steps at the Human Rights Council in Geneva, advocating for the rights and care of older persons and quality education for peace and tolerance. At the International Conference on Sanctions, Business, and Human Rights, where we highlighted the importance of solidarity in economic policies. 

In the context of migration, we recognized the fundamental human rights to mobility and cultural participation through the HeARTmony project, implemented across Italy, Spain, Lebanon, Bosnia, and Egypt. The project promoted social inclusion, well-being, and international cooperation while raising awareness of migration dynamics. 

• Dialogue

Dialogue is crucial in promoting understanding, valuing cultural and religious diversity, and bridging divides in an increasingly polarized world. New Humanity participated in the UNESCO roundtable “Religion: a Source of Strength in a Challenging World“, emphasizing the role of religions in fostering peace through dialogue. At the “Together for Humanity: Peace and Dialogue as a Methodology“ congress, we helped develop responses to contemporary global challenges.  

Locally, Project DialogUE engaged citizens in four Bilateral Dialogue Groups to discuss topics like communication, ecology, and social policies, leading to international meetings where participants shared perspectives and made recommendations for EU decision-makers. 

• Youth 

We gathered over 4,000 young people from diverse cultures, countries, and religions at the GenFest, an international event organized by the United World Project. The event focused on global unity and featured youth-driven proposals on sustainable development, climate action, peace, human rights, intercultural dialogue, social cohesion, and youth empowerment. These proposals were presented at the UNAOC Global Forum to high-level UN representatives. 

The AFR.E.S.H. project empowers young leaders from Europe and Africa to address global challenges across continents like migration, climate change, and inequality. The M.E.D.I.T.erraNEW project aims to establish a pedagogical laboratory for peace in the Mediterranean, strengthening educational opportunities for young people. 

• Ecology

Together with the Politics for Unity Movement (MPPU), we co-hosted the event “From Crisis to Collective Action: Co-Governance Solutions for Cities“ at the 2024 High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) in New York. Additionally, the International Congress on Relational Sustainability, organized by EcoOne, brought together over 250 participants to explore how the natural and human sciences can collaborate for a more integrated approach to sustainability. 

The Greenclusive project advanced environmental sustainability by empowering social minorities, particularly the younger generation, to lead ecological initiatives and actively contribute to the global green movement. 

As we continue our work in 2025, we remain commited to uniting communities and addressing the pressing challenges of our time. If our initiatives have positively impacted you, we invite you to consider supporting our efforts through a donation. Your contribution will help us continue advancing our mission to promote a united world, guided by the universal spirit of fraternity as a dynamic factor in social cohesion.

L'articolo New Humanity NGO 2024 Highlights: A Year of Action for Global Change  proviene da New Humanity.

It was a joyful hour of meeting together, almost an oasis within the context of the tension and conflicts experienced here every day. The program featured a presentation by the Focolare, and included a message from the current Focolare president, Margaret Karram, who encouraged each one present “to be a person who builds bridges, opens new paths, removes walls and opens people up to hope!” [Here is the full message]

The project was then presented by students from the 7^th, 8^th, and 9^th grades (the first year will start with 7th grade students). The program offers a pathway that develops gradually over three school years to ensure that each student will achieve a deep understanding of the concepts presented and internalize the content. Three themes will be addressed over the course of the year.

Each theme will be accompanied by “actions” featured on the “Cube of Peace”, a cube that features phrases on each side which suggest ways to build peaceful relationships. Here are the themes for this first year, 2024-2025 (and the associated Cube of Peace actions):

• Understanding oneself, self-esteem and personal development (“Treat others as you would like to be treated)
• Training in conflict management; working as a team (“Forgive those who hurt you”)
• Intergenerational and peer dialogue (“Discover the good in others”)

Gen Rosso and Gen Verde musical bands, which were prevented from being present due to the current situation, sent a video greeting, encouraging everyone to become leaders in promoting hope and fraternity. [Here is the video of their greeting].

The event was a real celebration thanks to each school’s artistic contributions, including presentations by a student band, a choir and a cultural dance. It was a mosaic of colors and sounds that made everyone experience a seed of a “united world,” a world of brotherhood and peace.

See also: https://cmcterrasanta-eu.s3.amazonaws.com/2024/93bcddc1-7742-4223-bd76-dd86e5f8e05f.mp4?_=1

L'articolo October 24, 2024 – Launching “TogetherWEconnect” in the Holy Land proviene da New Humanity.

The training program emphasized the theme “Togetherness: Building Teams and Leaders for a New Africa”, designed to reinforce leadership attitudes and civic participation through a blend of local training activities and international exchange. Lecturers, facilitators, and participants from European countries expanded the participants’ perspectives from both continents on common challenges and diverse cultural viewpoints regarding the topics discussed. 

Enhancing Peer-to-Peer Learning 

In response to participant feedback from the Summer School in 2023, the 2024 program focused on increasing opportunities for exchange among participants. The structure included fewer lectures and more collaborative sessions, allowing attendees to share their insights and best practices on leadership. Discussions were facilitated in English, French, and Portuguese, accommodating the diverse linguistic backgrounds of participants. 

A notable new feature was the peer-to-peer moments, where participants from different countries, but sharing a common language, engaged in meaningful conversations about their reflections and proposals based on the lectures. Feedback indicated that these moments were highly appreciated and contributed significantly to the learning experience. 

Opening Session and Key Themes 

The event began with a powerful address from Prof. Justus Mbae, former Vice Chancellor of the Catholic University of Eastern Africa and Chairperson of T4NA. He emphasized the crucial role of individual passion, energy, and curiosity in driving meaningful change. Prof. Mbae’s message resonated with participants, motivating them to embrace their potential as agents of transformation. 

Dr. Melchior Nsavyimana, the project manager of T4NA, expressed his gratitude for the commitment shown by all involved in making the training a reality. His acknowledgment of the collaborative efforts among participants from various regions underscored the essence of teamwork in achieving common goals. 

The first day featured a reflective session led by Professor Declan O’Byrne, Rector of Sophia Institute University, who engaged participants in discussing the challenges and opportunities of leadership in today’s world. This segment proved impactful, as participants reflected on their own leadership journeys and the wisdom required to navigate complex environments. 

Throughout the week, various crucial themes were explored, including: 

1. Collaboration and Complex Issues: A session on “Hard Problems & Contextual Factors,” moderated by Annette Pelkmans, Professor of International Economics at Sophia University Institute, highlighted the importance of collective action in solving complex challenges. The introduction of the “6 by 1 methodology” provided a structured framework for participants to navigate these difficulties, encouraging them to reflect on the challenges of fraternity, love, and globalization. 
2. Conflict Management: Raphaël Takougang, a lawyer at the Cameroon Bar Association, led discussions on conflict transformation and peacebuilding, reinforcing the idea that everyone plays a role in fostering peace through daily actions and commitments. 
3. Gender Inequality: Geneviève Sanze highlighted the vital role of women in socio-economic development, stressing the importance of recognizing unpaid labor and advocating for balanced partnerships between men and women. Her insights on mutual societies and initiatives focused on women’s development underscored the potential for creating more equitable communities.

In addition to thematic discussions, time was allocated for national group exchanges, allowing participants to delve deeper into the content and develop action plans tailored to their local contexts. These collaborative sessions fostered a sense of community and mutual support, essential elements for effective leadership. 

A Collaborative Closure 

As the training concluded, Melchior Nsavyimana, Project Manager of Together for a New Africa, encouraged participants to become active citizens and implement the lessons learned in their communities. The event wrapped up by reaffirming the significance of collaborative leadership in building a stronger, more equitable, and united Africa. 

The T4NA Summer School 2024 not only equipped young leaders with essential skills and knowledge but also created a vibrant network of individuals committed to driving positive change. As they return to their communities, these leaders carry with them a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to fostering unity and collaboration across the continent. 

To access all the materials and lectures from the Summer School, visit AFR.E.S.H. Project. 

For more information on the Together for a New Africa project, visit the website. 

L'articolo Togetherness in Action: Strengthening Leadership at the T4NA Summer School proviene da New Humanity.

Upon accepting his new role, Dias brings a wealth of experience in international diplomacy and a strong commitment to the values of the Catholic Church. “I accept this challenge as a service to the Church, to its members, in order to enhance our NGOs, arousing everyone’s unity with deep respect for everyone’s diversity,” he stated. His leadership envisions to strengthen the organization’s impact on global issues and enhance the Catholic Church’s presence in international affairs. 

The Forum, established in November 2007, comprises over 120 Catholic-inspired Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) with consultative status before intergovernmental institutions. It was conceived as a space for dialogue and collaboration among Catholic NGOs to address global issues, offer a strengthened Christian witness and contribute to the common good of humanity. 

Dias was then introduced to Cardinal Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State. During their encounter, Dias presided over a delegation that discussed the Forum’s work, its collaborations with international bodies and outlined thematic priorities for the coming years. The meeting emphasized the crucial role of the Forum in addressing pressing global issues such as peace, climate change, gender, family, artificial intelligence, health, migrations, and the right to life. 

Navigating the role: catholic NGO representatives at the UN

The International Forum of Catholic NGOs has evolved significantly since its inception in 2007. Since then, the Forum has now grown to include organizations actively participating in global dialogues. Beyond providing a platform for dialogue and exchange, the Forum plays a vital role at the United Nations. Catholic NGO representatives have worked collaboratively to create and present joint statements, written contributions, and oral statements at the UN. 

This collaborative effort extends beyond the global stage, with Catholic NGO representatives forming a supportive network. By signing documents jointly, these NGOs amplify their impact on issues debated at the UN. The internal Forum, organizing general assemblies every three years, ensures a robust relationship with the Holy See and sustains the momentum of Catholic NGOs within the UN framework. These representatives address critical global issues and contribute to the formation of a more just and compassionate world through their collaboration and advocacy efforts. 

Did you know New Humanity NGO has representative offices in six different cities?  Each one collaborates wih several partners that specialize in many different fiels of activities. Check it out!

Geneva

Paris

New York

Brussels

Nairobi

Rome

L'articolo Jorge Dias Ferreira assumes presidency of the International Forum of Catholic-inspired Organizations proviene da New Humanity.

On October 28th New Humanity NGO co-signed the following statement:

L'articolo There is no holy war proviene da New Humanity.

Titled “Connecting with Others,” the workshop garnered 365 registrations from 21 European and 31 non-European countries, offering language options in English, Italian, German, and French.

The workshop content featured three main speakers, experts in the discussed themes, followed by six individuals who shared their Christian-Muslim interfaith experiences.

Luciano di Mele, an Italian communication scholar, was the first speaker, highlighting the manipulation of communication through disinformation and fake news. He emphasized the role of media education in countering misinformation.

Ramazan Özgü, a Swiss Muslim professor, stressed the importance of involving minority voices in major discussions, emphasizing dialogue as a platform for public discourse. Structural barriers hindering Muslim participation were addressed.

The significance of interreligious dialogue between Catholics and Muslims in breaking stereotypes and fostering inclusivity and strong democracy was underscored. The Focolare Movement’s dialogical approach was praised for improving relations and integrating Muslim refugees in Europe.

Ramazan supported the Swiss initiative “We Are Also Here,” empowering Muslim youth in media engagement and political involvement. The value of alliances between minority groups was emphasized, along with initiatives against online hate.

The European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA) was lauded as a step towards a fairer digital landscape, promoting transparency and countering hate speech. The importance of regulating digital platforms to ensure equitable representation and combat misinformation was highlighted.

The essence of democratic societies lies in dialogue, transcending boundaries and understanding diverse perspectives. Interfaith dialogue was hailed as a valuable platform for sharing ideas, fostering mutual understanding, and cooperation among religious groups.

The third speaker, Michele Zanzucchi, addressed Islamophobia in Europe, highlighting the complex relationship between Europe and the Islamic world. He suggested mutual understanding and using religion to resolve conflicts as antidotes.

Various speakers shared initiatives promoting interfaith understanding, such as breakfast gatherings and cultural events. They stressed education, mutual respect, and acknowledging shared values to promote unity.

Participants identified two principles: reciprocity and dialogue, and fraternity. They proposed actions like fostering interaction, educating youth about human rights and dialogue, promoting good practices, and disseminating government initiatives supporting minorities.

Click HERE for a full description of the workshop

L'articolo Connecting with Others – Practising the Art of Dialogue proviene da New Humanity.

In recent years, we have seen a shift in mentality in favor of a more conscious gaze towards our common home. Personal experiences of drastic changes in global temperature and its impact in various aspects of human life, accompanied by the warnings of scientists, has led us to an escalated awareness that responding to the climate crisis is no longer an option but a necessity. Governments, communities, and individuals have taken various initiatives to help contribute to this cause. This includes 15 communities whose climate actions are being realized with financial assistance from New Humanity NGO and its partners. Such projects include the construction of a domestic sewage treatment system that includes the possibility of agricultural reuse in Petrolina, Brazil, the training of students and housewives to produce biodegradable packaging in Cotonou, Benin, and the implementation of a system of hydroponic green fodder in a rabbit farm which forms part of a rehabilitation center’s program for young people with addiction problems in Mexico City, Mexico, among many others. We highly value these partnerships and all efforts, especially those led by young people, which support, encourage, and execute local actions leading to global impact.

Unfortunately, while they are beautiful endeavors, they are insufficient. Many individuals still limit their concern for the planet as a mere sentiment. Perhaps, they do not know how to begin or how to go about an idea that has already crossed their mind. The theme of this year’s celebration, “Green Skills for Youth: Towards A Sustainable World” sets a direction that can guide us. It offers us a path to walk along and start acting if we have not yet done so. Green skills are those set of competencies composed of entrepreneurship, innovation, and analytical thinking skills based on a deep-seated background of the role science and technology play in order to determine creative strategies to be acted upon as we combat the challenges that comes with the climate crisis and towards a healthier planet (Kamis et al., 2016 [1]; Kamis et al., 2017 [2]).

This celebration, therefore, invites us to upskill and reskill the youth not only with the skills to make them job-ready that secures their personal future but also with green skills that fortifies the future of humanity and our habitat. We must review how up-to-date green skills training is embedded in various educational systems around the world and search for ways by which such training can also be offered outside of the school system to ensure accessibility and inclusivity. Moreover, it is equally important to nurture everyone’s green skills as we continue to face the pressure of drawing closer before the effects of the climate crisis worsen and become irreversible. As per the IPCC 2022 [3] report, we only have until next year for global greenhouse gas emissions to reach its peak level and these emissions should be substantially reduced by 2025. This is a crucial period in history where we are offered the chance to overcome the crisis which we have brought upon ourselves. Mindset and heartset are not enough in achieving a more sustainable future. We need the appropriate skillset, as well. Time is running out. Time to act now.

GIO FRANCISCO
United World Ambassador
Manila, Philippines

August 12, 2023

_________________________

1 Kamis, A., Mustapha, R., Wahab, N. A., & Liimuna Hj Ismail, B. (2016). Green Skills as an Added-Value Element in Producing Competent Students. International Journal of Engineering Research and Application, 6(11), 12–21.

2 Kamis, A., Rus, R. C., Rahim, M. B., Yunus, F. A., Zakaria, N., & Affandi, H. M. (2018). Exploring green skills: A study on the implementation of green skills among secondary school students. International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences, 7(12). https://doi.org/10.6007/ijarbss/v7-i12/3615

3 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). (2023). Climate Change 2022 – Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability. https://doi.org/10.1017/9781009325844

L'articolo U.N. INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY, AUGUST 12, 2023 proviene da New Humanity.

WHEN: 9-11 AM (Lagos, London) 10-12 AM (Rome, Bujumbura) 11-1 AM (Nairobi) June 17th

Register here by June 15th:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf6iqnby9zsyr3TN15AJNzHryXDEwnW3BNKThkMGIIeH3SuUg/viewform?usp=sf_link

To download PDF invitation, click here.

L'articolo AFRESH Third Workshop on Participative Digital Facilitation proviene da New Humanity.

This training will give you a chance to design your own workshop/meeting and guide you through a checklist of some of the key things you need to think of.  This is the second of three workshops which will be focused on improving our use of digital tools.

This course will take place on May 27th from 10-12am CET and the next courses will be announced shortly.

Here is the invitation and link for the online training: https://forms.gle/QXLihUtfkDDWkKbD8

L'articolo Digital Facilitation Second online Training – AFR.E.S.H project proviene da New Humanity.

ONCE MORE – “DARE TO CARE” 

‌[…] For the third year, we propose, through the United World Project, the slogan “Dare to care” as the title of UWW, because we believe, today more than ever, that unity and fraternity can only be reached, if we are daring enough to care, to get involved, to take on the responsibility of looking after one another and the planet, with concrete actions, starting from where we are. ‌ 

At the close of UWW together with some highlights of all the activities carried out during UWW 2023, there will be the launch of the Pathway campaign for the next year! 

‌Reach out the United World Project website for more detailed information. 

     What is United World Week?  

United World Week – many varied expressions, from many different places and communities: expo, cultural events, ideas and dialogue workshops, solidarity initiatives. Seven days dedicated to spreading the values of peace, fraternity, care for one another and the environment and unity, to witness that, if we really desire it, a united world is possible. As we seek to influence public opinion in our respective countries, through our perseverance we aim to illuminate our Planet with hope, starting from the persevering action of the people of fraternity. 

L'articolo UNITED WORLD WEEK 2023 proviene da New Humanity.