International Decade for the Rapprochement of Cultures (2013-2022)

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed the period 2013-2022 as the “International Decade for the Rapprochement of Cultures” in December 2012 (Resolution 67/104)

An Action Plan was adopted by the Executive Board of UNESCO in April 2014 (Document 194 EX/10). Through this Action Plan :

A three-steps approach towards the rapprochement of cultures was defined, including  :

1. To evaluate the current status of inclusive policies, respectful of diversity and Human Rights;
2. Setting annual priorities by elaborating or revising action plans, programmes or activities;
3. Establishing meaningful and lasting partnerships at a national, regional and international level.

Four areas were determined as follows :

1. Promoting mutual understanding and reciprocal knowledge of cultural, ethnic, linguistic and religious diversity;
2. Building a pluralist framework for commonly shared values;
3. Disseminating the principles and tools of intercultural dialogue through quality education and the media and;
4. Fostering dialogue for sustainable development and its ethical, social and cultural dimensions.