Remarks by H.E. Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos,
High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC),
and UN Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia,
at the International Meeting on Atlantic Creoleness
Praia, Cabo Verde – 28 May 2026
Your Excellency, President José Maria Neves of the Republic of Cabo Verde,
Your Excellencies,
Distinguished guests,
It is a great honor and privilege for me to be here in Praia, representing the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, at the opening of this important International Meeting on Atlantic Creoleness.
Allow me first to extend my sincere congratulations to you, Mr. President, and to the people of Cabo Verde on the celebration of the 50th anniversary of independence. This historic milestone reflects a remarkable journey defined by resilience, openness, and a deep commitment to cultural diversity and dialogue.
Excellency, your leadership in convening this meeting under the theme “Building Bridges, Building a Better Future” is both timely and visionary. It highlights Cabo Verde’s role as a natural bridge between continents, cultures, and histories—and as a living embodiment of Atlantic Creoleness.
Excellencies,
This meeting invites us to revisit and better understand the historical processes that shaped Atlantic societies—processes marked by encounter, exchange, and also by adversity.
It calls attention, in particular, to the contributions of those who were often marginalized or subalternized, yet whose resilience and creativity gave rise to rich and enduring cultural expressions.
In doing so, it offers a more inclusive reading of history—one that recognizes the agency, dignity, and transformative power of diverse peoples and communities.
The concept of Atlantic Creoleness reminds us that from complex and, at times, painful histories have emerged new identities, new forms of coexistence, and new cultural universes.
It is a story not only of the past, but of continuous renewal and creativity.
Creoleness is a living heritage, a dynamic expression of how cultures interact, adapt, and enrich one another. In a world where diversity is sometimes perceived as a challenge or a threat, Creoleness shows us that diversity is, in fact, a source of strength and innovation.
As it is beautifully said in Cabo Verdean Creole: “Nôs tud nôs ê kriol”—we are all Creole. This powerful expression reminds us that beyond our differences, we share a common humanity, enriched by exchange, solidarity and the very diversity that defines us.
This message is deeply aligned with the core mandate of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, which works to promote intercultural dialogue, diversity and mutual respect and understanding, as essential pillars for peace and sustainable development.
Excellencies,
The over-arching theme of this meeting—“Building Bridges, Building a Better Future”—resonates strongly with the mandate and objectives of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations.
In a world increasingly marked by polarization, mistrust, and the resurgence of intolerance, the need to build bridges has never been more urgent.
Atlantic Creoleness teaches us that bridges are built through interaction, through dialogue, and through the recognition of our shared humanity.
It also reminds us that inclusive societies—societies that value diversity—are better equipped to confront global challenges, including racism, xenophobia, and social fragmentation.
It also reminds us that combating racism and discrimination—whether based on religion or belief, ethnicity, or culture—is not only a moral imperative, but a universal human rights obligation. In today’s world, reaffirming this principle is essential to safeguarding social cohesion and advancing peace.
In this regard, this initiative contributes meaningfully to the broader efforts of the international community, including the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The 2030 Agenda calls for societies that are inclusive, just, and peaceful. It recognizes that cultural diversity is not only an asset, but a driver of sustainable development. By promoting dialogue, mutual respect, and cultural understanding, initiatives such as this one directly support these objectives.
They also align with the International Decade for People of African Descent, which calls for recognition, justice, and development, while highlighting the importance of addressing historical legacies and valuing the contributions of people of African descent.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Preserving cultural heritage is essential. But we must go further. We must ensure its revitalization—so that it remains dynamic, accessible, and meaningful for future generations.
This requires investing in cultural expression, empowering communities, and especially engaging young people as custodians and innovators of this heritage. It also requires strengthening the links between heritage, creativity, and sustainable development.
Initiatives such as this meeting embody this vision. They foster dialogue across regions and disciplines. They bring together policymakers, scholars, artists, and civil society. And they serve as powerful platforms for cultural diplomacy, building bridges that go beyond borders.
Excellencies,
Distinguished guests,
The concept of Atlantic Creoleness challenges us to move beyond fragmented narratives and to embrace a more inclusive understanding of our shared history and identity.
It reminds us that humanity’s richness lies in its diversity—and that our future depends on our ability to live together in dignity, respect, and solidarity.
As we begin this meeting, let us reaffirm our commitment to dialogue, to cooperation, and to the construction of more inclusive and resilient societies.
In closing, allow me once again to congratulate Cabo Verde on this historic anniversary.
Let us draw inspiration from the spirit of Creoleness to continue building bridges—across cultures, across regions, and across generations—so that together we may build a better future.
In the spirit of Cabo Verde, as the saying goes, “Djunta mon pa faze bon trabadju”—by joining hands, we achieve meaningful results.
Because, as we say at the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations: “Many cultures, one humanity.”
Thank you.