Message by the High Representative for UNAOC
Marking the 20th Anniversary
of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)
New York, 14 July 2025
Today, we commemorate twenty years since the birth of a vision – a vision forged in 2005 as a direct response to the alarming rise in mistrust, polarization, and identity-based tensions that threatened peace and security across the globe. What began as the Alliance of Civilizations, a joint initiative by Spain and Türkiye under the leadership of United Nations Secretary-General H.E. Mr. Kofi Annan, has since evolved into a dynamic United Nations entity: the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC).
Over the past two decades, UNAOC has grown into a respected platform for building bridges between societies, promoting dialogue and mutual respect, and preventing identity-driven conflict. It stands today as a vital actor in sustaining peace and advancing inclusive societies.
Guided by its founding motto, “Many Cultures. One Humanity”, UNAOC has turned aspiration into action. Through robust partnerships with Member States, civil society, religious leaders, faith actors, academia, media, youth, and the private sector, it has launched impactful flagship programmes that foster inclusive dialogue, prevent violent extremism, challenge xenophobia and stereotypes, elevate the role of women in peace processes, and harness the unifying power of sport and the arts. Its alumni network now includes hundreds of peacebuilders making a difference in their communities, while its global programmes have reached millions.
Today, UNAOC’s Group of Friends includes 161 UN Member States and international organizations – a testament to its growing impact and the trust it has earned. Its values have inspired numerous national and regional strategies to strengthen interfaith and intercultural harmony, nurture social cohesion, and prevent tensions before they escalate.
Drawing on its expertise and trusted leadership, the United Nations Secretary-General entrusted UNAOC with key mandates, including the development and coordination of the United Nations Plan of Action to Safeguard Religious Sites (2019), and, more recently, the United Nations Action Plan to Enhance Monitoring and Response to Antisemitism (2025). And in light of the troubling rise in Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hatred worldwide, I was honored to be appointed by the Secretary-General as the first United Nations Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia (2025). An additional responsibility that I carry with humility and determination.
In today’s world—marked by deepening divides, widespread conflict, and fading trust—the mission of UNAOC resonates more than ever. Its message rings louder with each passing day: mutual respect and understanding are not aspirational ideals—they are necessities. Interreligious and intercultural dialogue is not optional — it is essential.
On this 20th anniversary, together with the able UNAOC team, we extend heartfelt gratitude to all our partners, supporters, and champions around the world. As we look ahead to UNAOC’s third decade, let us renew our shared commitment to the enduring power of dialogue.
Let us continue to work together for a world where civilizations do not clash but are allied together.
Let us reaffirm our shared vision: a world in which diversity is not merely tolerated but celebrated; a world in which dignity is not contingent upon identity.
Let us rise to the occasion. The stakes are too high, and the silence of inaction is no longer an option.
Let us celebrate our common humanity — in the pursuit of lasting peace.