An Intergenerational Conversation: The Future They Want
2020-09-29 11:45 - 13:15 (America/Halifax) | Online
An Interactive webinar on the margins of the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly
The current youth generation is acknowledged as the largest in history with 1.85 billion young women and men 10 to 24 years of age in the world, 90% of whom live in developing countries and one in four affected by violence or armed conflict. Africa and the Arab region have a wealth of young people who account for two thirds of the Arab region’s population and 65% of the African continent.
It would be stating the obvious to say that young women and men are critical agents for social change, economic growth and development. They actively contribute to the resilience of their communities and represent an important pool of talent, ideas, energy and passion. Young people are a key asset which can leverage unparalleled multiplier effects with their ability to mobilize their peers and implement innovative solutions to address challenges.
At the same time, young people continue to suffer disproportionately from conflict and poverty and have been traditionally facing systemic challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated those challenges for most young women and men. Millions lost their jobs and hundreds of thousands remain without education due to partial closures of educational institutions. Failure to address those challenges leads to alienating young people and eroding their trust in the political establishments. Such environment provides an open space for extremist groups to exploit youth’s anger and despair to fan the flames of hatred and radicalization. Extremists and radical groups are taking advantage of the proliferation of digital platforms to double down on social media spreading hatred and offering youth a twisted sense of purpose based on lies.
Yet, during the pandemic, young people had also been in the front lines volunteering and providing support to their communities. They found ways to engage, demand change and fight for peace, inclusion and justice. It is, therefore, essential to recognize young people at the center of our recovery efforts and as we chart the re-building of peaceful, resilient and inclusive societies.
On 27 April 2020, the UN Security Council marked the 5th Anniversary of the adoption of the groundbreaking resolution 2250 (2015) by holding an open debate to take stock of the progress made in the previous five years and identify actions that the Security Council could take to ensure the meaningful participation of the youth in peace and security efforts. During the open debate, the UN Secretary-General presented the key findings of the first report focused on the youth, peace and security agenda mandated by UNSCR 2419 (2018). In his statement, the Secretary-General noted that notwithstanding the progress achieved, the Youth, Peace and Security agenda still faces formidable challenges. Participation opportunities remain inadequate, particularly in the decision-making processes. He called to action on youth, peace and security agenda and to address these challenges guided by the findings of the Independent Progress Study on Youth Peace and Security.
In July 2020, the Security Council adopted resolution 2535(2020), which in its first operational paragraph “calls on all relevant actors, to consider ways to increase the inclusive representation of youth for the prevention and resolution of conflict, as well as in peacebuilding, including when negotiating and implementing peace agreements, and to ensure the full, effective and meaningful participation of youth, recognizing that their marginalization is detrimental to building sustainable peace”.
In February 2019, the UN Security Council welcomed Africa’s initiative of the “Silencing the Guns” and called for international support and cooperation to achieve peace in Africa. In order to achieve (STG) agenda and article 17 of the African Youth Charter, the AU Youth Envoy launched a continental platform for conversation among young people to exchange views on the challenges and solutions towards to achieve a peaceful and prosperous Africa.
Framing the Conversation:
Youth is one of the five pillars of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) together with education, migration, media and the role of women as mediators and peacemakers in conflicts with cultural and religious settings. Through education, capacity building, training and many other opportunities for innovation and creativity, UNAOC empowers young women and men and youth-led civil society globally and recognize them as powerful agents for social change. Over the years, UNAOC has developed programming that recognizes young people as essential partners in fostering mutual understanding between peoples of different cultures and religions, highlighting the will of the majority to reject violent extremism and embrace diversity. Youth-led organizations that foster peaceful and inclusive societies have been supported since 2008 through the Youth Solidarity Fund (YSF). Seed funding and technical support are given to projects, led by and focused on young people, that demonstrate innovative and effective approaches to intercultural or interfaith dialogue. Financial support for recent editions has been provided by the Government of Finland. An independent evaluation report was produced in 2018, of ten youth-led organizations supported by YSF in 2016 and 2017, which includes best practices and lessons for similar youth-focused donor programmes.
In line with the theme chosen to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the United Nations and in the spirit of keeping the UN75 dialogues going, this interactive conversation between UNAOC young alumni and senior officials will present an opportunity to further engage young people and amplify their voices around the importance of youth engagement in the peace and security agenda.
Objective:
Through an interactive, intergenerational discussion, the panel will identify key challenges that youth are currently facing as a result of the pandemic and will make recommendations to strengthen their engagement and amplify their voices as the world gears-up for recovering from the pandemic and re-building a better world.
Format:
The virtual event will take place on 29 September, 11:45AM – 1:15PM (EDT) in the form of an interactive conversation between UNAOC youth alumni.

Participants:

Leading the conversation:
Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos
High Representative, United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)

Panelists:
Mr. Vladimir Voronkov
Under-Secretary-General for Counter-Terrorism, United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT)
Ms. Diene Keita
Deputy Executive Director for Programme, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Assistant-Secretary-General
Amb. Sima Sami Bahous
Permanent Representative of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan to the United Nations
Ms. Corinne Momal-Vanian
Executive Director, Kofi Annan Foundation

Special Guest
Ms. Aya Chebbi
Youth Envoy, African Union

UNAOC youth alumni panelists
Ms. Sif Heide-Ottosen
Fellowship Programme 2019 EUNA, Denmark
Mr. Tomas Horvath
Fellowship Programme 2017 EUNA, Slovak Republic
Ms. Ahlem Nasraoui
Intercultural Innovation Award 2017, Tunisia
Ms. Magdalen Amony
Intercultural Innovation Award 2019, Uganda
Ms. Theresa Saade
Intercultural Innovation Award 2014, Lebanon
Mr. Syed Ali Abbas
Intercultural Innovation Award 2017, Pakistan
Ms. Louise Kanza
PLURAL+ Youth Video Festival 2017, Democratic Republic of Congo and South Africa
Ms. Sivatharsini Raveendran
Youth Solidarity Fund 2019-2020, Sri Lanka
Mr. Mohammed Ghanem
Young Peacebuilders 3rd edition, Egypt
Ms. Farah El Alami
Young Peacebuilders 3rd edition, Jordan
Ms. Afaf Lamkoutar
Young Peacebuilders 3rd edition, Morocco

Racism, Xenophobia and Discrimination: The Tearing of Our Societies
2020-09-29 15:00 - 16:30 (America/Halifax) | Online
An Interactive webinar on the margins of the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly

The COVID-19 pandemic has torn across the world, affected all segments of the population indiscriminately regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, or gender, and continues to have far-reaching health and economic consequences. But for many, the impact extends beyond medical and financial concerns. The pandemic has exposed social and political fractures within communities, with discriminatory responses to fear, disproportionately affecting communities on the basis of their real or perceived national origin, skin color, or religion. Several political parties have latched into the COVID-19 crisis to advance anti-immigrant, white supremacist, anti-Semitic and xenophobic conspiracy theories that demonize minorities on the sheer basis of their religion, belief, or ethnicity.
Outbreaks create fear, and fear is a crucial ingredient for racism, xenophobia, and discrimination to thrive. This phenomenon manifests differently in different contexts and populations. Yet, there is a pattern in discriminatory acts: the target is generally the “other,” i.e., the migrant, someone belonging to a religious or ethnic minority, etc. These behavior patterns, not uncommon before the pandemic, often lead to the fragmentation of society. Racism and discrimination have detrimental effects not only on the safety and human dignity of those who are targeted but also on development, peace, and social cohesion. The United Nations Secretary-General has warned of the repercussions of these discriminatory manifestations urging for an inclusive, equitable, and universal response in addressing the pandemic.
The position of the United Nations on racism and all its manifestations is crystal clear: this scourge violates the Charter of the United Nations and debases the core values upon which it was founded. The prohibition of racial discrimination is enshrined in all core international human rights instruments. It places obligations on States and tasks them with eradicating discrimination in public and private spheres. Therefore, it is imperative to promote tolerance, inclusion, and respect for diversity and stand up against racism, xenophobia, hate speech, and all forms of discrimination. The United Nations Secretary-General has made this a priority through launching initiatives such as the UN Plan of Action to Safeguard Religious Sites, the UN Guidance Note on Addressing and Countering COVID-19 related Hate Speech3 , which builds on the UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech4.
Framing the discussion:
COVID-19 is attacking societies at their core. The pandemic has devastated many lives and upended livelihoods. But we should not let it destroy our core humanistic values. Allowing the pandemic to tear apart the fabric of our societies would be one of the most severe upheavals of COVID-19. Inclusion of and dialogue with communities and marginalized groups helps in rebuilding trust and enhancing social cohesion. In this context, the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) is organizing a webinar to explore ways to scale-up a whole-of-society approach to prevent and counter the scourge of all forms of discrimination, xenophobia, and racism.
Format:
The panel will be convened in the format of an interactive discussion with speakers representing relevant UN entities, human rights experts, and other stakeholders, including the media. Speakers will give brief introductions (three minutes), and the moderator will conduct a tour-de-table.

Participants:
Leading the Conversation:
H.E. Mr. Miguel Angel Moratinos
Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for UNAOC
Panelists:
Ms. Pramila Patten
@USGSRSGPatten
Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict (OSRSG-SVC), Acting Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide (UN-OSAPG) @UN_GP_RtoP
Dr. Ahmed Shaheed
@ahmedshaheed
Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief
Mr. Jason Isaacson
Chief Policy and Political Affairs Officer, American Jewish Committee @AJCGlobal
Ms. Nayeli Chavez-Geller
@nayelichavezg
New York Correspondent, Primer Impacto, Univisión
Ms. Alex Walden
Global Head of Human Rights, Google
Mr. George Salama (tbc)
Head of Public Policy, Government, and Philanthropy – MENA Region, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, Twitter

2020 UNAOC Fellowship Programme
2020-10-05 - 2020-11-04 | Online
“Building Peace in the Age of New Media”
A Virtual Edition of the UNAOC Fellowship Programme

In its online configuration, the 2020 UNAOC Fellowship Programme will take the form of a virtual engagement programme consolidated over 18 days and preceded by an introduction phase of two weeks. The theme is “Building peace in the age of new media” and 20 Fellows from Europe, North America and the MENA region have been selected for their experience in the fields of media and peacebuilding.
From 5 to 16 October, 2020 UNAOC Fellows will be introduced to three online modules on intercultural and interreligious dialogue, media and peacebuilding, in line with the 2020 theme “Building peace in the age of new media”. Developed by UNAOC and trainers, each module will introduce Fellows to global trends, key concepts and good practices in the above-mentioned fields, with a focus on the different contexts across Europe, North America, the Middle East and North Africa.
From 19 to 28 October, each cohort will then engage separately in online conversations with relevant actors from six countries. For each country, Fellows will engage in a series of 60-minute online discussions with (a) government and official representatives, (b) religious and community leaders, (c) journalists and media professionals, (d) civil society organizations and representatives of grassroots initiatives. The topics of these exchanges will revolve around intercultural and interreligious dialogue, as well as the 2020 theme “Building peace in the age of new media”. Cohorts will debrief regularly, both separately and jointly. When feasible, participants will also engage in virtual activities that will introduce them to the cultural diversity of the destination countries.
From 29 October to 4 November, Fellows will engage in webinars and online workshops focusing on (a) interreligious and intercultural dialogue and (b) on “Building peace in the age of new media” and through various pedagogical methods. Each section will offer a webinar developed in collaboration with KAICIID and four online workshops – two workshops will engage cohorts separately and two will engage them together. During these workshops, Fellows will strengthen their competencies in the fields of intercultural and interreligious dialogue, media, and peacebuilding, and collaborate to develop material and recommendations on ways to use media and information technology to support the global community and international organizations in their work towards sustainable peace and conflict prevention.

Agenda

5-16 October: Introduction

19-28 October: Virtual exposure

29 October – 3 November: Capacity building activities

29-30 October: Intercultural and interreligious dialogue

2-3 November: Building peace in the age of new media

11 November: Conclusion

Bios: 2020 EUNA Fellows
Bios: 2020 MENA Fellows

2020 G20 Interfaith Forum
2020-10-13 - 2020-10-16 | Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Realizing Opportunities of the 21st Century for All
The formal 2020 G20 Interfaith Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia will take place from 13-16 October 2020. On the way to Riyadh, there will be regional forums in Argentina, Belgium, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, the Middle East, and Washington, D.C. These gatherings will produce statements and recommendations for the formal 2020 G20 Interfaith Forum. In addition, there are will be two pre-conferences in Riyadh to bring together the KAICIID Youth Programme and KAICIID Fellows right before the 2020 G20 Interfaith Forum in Riyadh that will contribute substantive input for the Forum.
View the Livestream Here

Collaborating Partners
The G20 Interfaith Forum Association wishes to express particular appreciation for its co-organizing partners this year for the 2020 G20 Interfaith Forum being hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: the King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz International Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue (KAICIID), the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), and the Saudi Arabian National Committee for Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue (NCIRD).

Download (PDF, 9.11MB)

Hemispheric Forum on Freedom of Religion or Belief
2020-10-23 10:30 - 13:30 (America/Halifax) | Online
UNAOC will participate the First Hemispheric Forum on Freedom of Religion or Belief, which is organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Colombia.
The forum aims to promote cooperation in the hemisphere, provide information on promoting religious freedom, and create a space to recognize and promote interfaith dialogue.
Mr. Miguel Moratinos, High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), will deliver opening remarks during the Ministerial Plenary on 23 October.

United Nations Roundtable of Media and Information Literacy Global Media and Information Literacy Week 2020
2020-10-28 09:00 - 11:00 (America/Halifax)
Resisting Disinfodemic: Media and Information Literacy for Everybody and by Everybody
Ms. Nihal Saad, Chief of Cabinet and Spokesperson for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), will participate at the UN Roundtable of Media and Information Literacy Global Media and Information Literacy Week 2020, with the theme “Resisting Disinfodemic: Media and Information Literacy for Everybody and by Everybody”.

As disinformation has become a cross-cutting problem for the different goals of the 2030 Sustainable Development agenda, so too different UN agencies may find shared interests in the role of Media and Information Literacy (MIL) as part of the responses. This document outlines some ways in which MIL is relevant to the mandates of different members of the UN family, and possible points of co-operation. This novel first round of discussions may lay the ground for continued dialogues and practical steps forward.
Learn More

2020 Balkans Forum Against Anti-Semitism
2020-10-28 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Halifax) | Online
Mr. Miguel Moratinos, High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), will participate in the 2020 Balkans Forum Against Anti-Semitism, hosted by the Parliament of the Republic of Albania, in partnership with the Combat anti-Semitism Movement (CAM) and the Jewish Agency for Israel.
The Forum will take place on October 28th, 2020 at 16:00 CET / 11:00 AM EST.
The aim of the conference is to create a united front among the Balkans to work together in order to eradicate the scourge of anti-Semitism from our discourse and to create better, more tolerant societies for future generations.
Register for the 2020 Balkans Forum Against Anti-Semitism Watch Live on YouTube

Les Rencontres Orient Occident du Château Mercier, Switzerland
2020-10-29 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Halifax) | Online
9th Edition of the Rencontres Orient Occident at Château Mercier
Since 2012, Château Mercier has hosted the Rencontres Orient Occident in its peaceful setting in the heart of the Swiss Alps.
The event brings together the fields of philosophy, history, politics and geopolitics, law, economics, ecology and spirituality.
Click here to learn more.

Espai Debat - Ciclo Europa, Spain
2020-10-29 14:30 - 15:00 (America/Halifax)
L’H Espai de Debat is a platform integrated by diverse entities of a social character whose objective is to promote debate and citizen involvement in the city of l’Hospitalet del Llobregat.
Europe: Present and Future
Response to Covid19, global leadership and the biggest global challenges.
Click here for more information.

Ministerial to Advance Freedom of Religion or Belief 2020
2020-11-16 - 2020-11-17 | Online
Hosted by the Minister of the Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland, H.E. Mr. Zbigniew Rau, the Ministerial to Advance Freedom of Religion or Belief aims to discuss the most current and pressing issues related to the freedom of religion or belief in the world. As the 2020 edition of the Ministerial will take place during the COVID-19 health crisis, one of the focus of the conference is how to advance freedom of religion and belief despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Learn More

Freedom of Speech and caricatures vs. Respect of Religions : Clash or Alliance of Civilizations?
2020-11-19 14:30 - 15:30 (Europe/Paris)
A Zoom conversation with Mr. Miguel Moratinos, High Representative for UNAOC, organized by the Aspen Institute of France
Following the recent events in Conflans Sainte Honorine with the beheading of teacher Samuel Paty and in Notre Dame Cathedral in Nice, and the Vienna shooting a few days later, France and Europe are hit again by fanatic attacks and murders committed in the name of Islam. The reaction by President Macron saying that France would not surrender its core value and freedom of expression, and the preparation of a law on “Islamic separatism” has generated fury in the Muslim world and the boycott of French products.
Should there be some limit in the freedom of speech and expression? Are we heading towards a new wave of terror and escalation of tensions?
25 years after the publication of the Clash of Civilizations and all attempts made to prevent it by promoting dialogue and alliance of Civilizations, can we say that Huntington’s predictions have prevailed? What could be the responses and the measures to be taken to guarantee mutual respect among religions and faiths and peaceful societies?
The Aspen Institute will host Miguel Moratinos, the Head of the UN body against extremism and radicalization, to discuss these sensitive issues and to seek his views in the global context.

The Aspen Institute France is an educational and policy studies organization based in Paris. Its mission is to foster leadership based on enduring values and to provide a nonpartisan venue for dealing with critical issues.

Rome Mediterranean Dialogues
2020-11-25 09:00 - 11:00 (America/Halifax)
UNAOC will participate in the Rome Mediterranean Dialogues, the annual high-level initiative promoted by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and ISPI (Italian Institute for International Political Studies) in Rome with the aim to rethink traditional approaches to the area complementing analyses of current challenges with new ideas and suggestions and to draft a new “positive agenda”, addressing shared challenges at both the regional and the international level.
Click Here to Learn More

Securing Sport Virtual Edition 2020
2020-12-01 09:00 - 17:00 (America/Halifax)
Mr. Miguel Moratinos, High Representative for UNAOC, will participate in a session entitled “Protecting Sport in Regions in Turmoil” within the margins of the ICSS Securing Sport 2020 Virtual Edition. The session will explore ways to restore sport competitions in post-conflict countries and regions affected by turmoil, and how sport can contribute to prosperity and stability in areas affected by crises. The discussion will focus on methods of re-building relevant capacities required for staging and managing sporting events, at all levels, from grassroots to professional sports, and the possibility of organizing sporting events with an international dimension.

SECURING SPORT 2020 Virtual Edition: ‘Building Resilience in an Ever-Changing World’
The ICSS will convene its flagship conference Securing Sport from 01 – 04 December 2020, in a virtual event format under the theme ‘Building Resilience in an Ever-Changing World’. Securing Sport is an international and multisectoral conference, which was conceived to serve as a platform for discussions about the changes, challenges and threats to sport and the opportunities sport can generate in the socio-economic context. The latest editions were hosted by the Lancaster House in London and the Council on Foreign Relations in New York.
By bringing together all ICSS partners and allies, Securing Sport gives inspiration to the ICSS regarding the general work objectives and future endeavors in safeguarding sport as a common good for humankind.
As an open-ended platform, Securing Sport unites international and national decision-makers, eminent experts and gives a voice to stakeholders across sectors with the aim of inspiring collective action and identifying solutions to enhance the safety, security and integrity of sport, while protecting its societal values.
In a series of digital events – Policy Dialogues, Expert Debates and Youth Interventions hosted by the ICSS initiative Save the Dream – set against a virtual stage backdrop, the panels will analyse some of the most pressing current challenges facing the world of sport and address global challenges, international approaches and ways to further strengthen multisectoral cooperation.
Read More

26th Lisbon Forum: "Lessons learnt: what challenges still to overcome?"
2020-12-02 14:00 - 16:00 (Europe/Lisbon) | Virtual
Mr. Miguel Moratinos, High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), will deliver keynote remarks in a session entitled “Lessons learnt: what challenges still to overcome?” in the margins of the 26th Lisbon Forum on 2 December 2020.

About the Lisbon Forum:
The world we live in is a complex system. One in which a heterogeneous network of actors has the power to influence decisions at global level, in certain cases without necessarily being held accountable for them. A system that continues to be characterised by increasing inequalities, which are still deeply embedded in our society. But it is also a system where us, the people, and our representatives, can come together and cooperate for the common good. This is the lesson that the COVID-19 pandemic has been teaching us since day one, forcing us to deal with a fundamental question: How can we enhance international solidarity’s impact in order to ensure a more sustainable and unified future?
Learn More about the 2020 Lisbon Forum

PLURAL+ Youth Video Festival: 2020 Awards Ceremony
2020-12-04 10:00 - 13:00 (America/Halifax) | Virtual
The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and the International Organization for Migration will hold the annual Awards Ceremony of their joint initiative, the PLURAL+ Youth Video Festival. The virtual event will feature short films produced by young filmmakers from across the globe on the pressing issues of migration, diversity, social inclusion, the prevention of xenophobia, the future of our world, and interreligious dialogue.
Every year, PLURAL+ gives young people around the world the opportunity to express their vision and their creativity through multimedia production. To learn more, visit pluralplus.unaoc.org.

Virtual Launch: International Hub on Behavioural Insights to Counter Terrorism in Doha, Qatar
2020-12-07 09:00 - 10:30 (America/Halifax)
What?
The United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) will hold a soft virtual launch of the International Hub on Behavioural Insights to Counter Terrorism, which will be established as a UNOCT Programme Office in Doha, the State of Qatar.
The opening sessions will be followed by remarks from the Heads of the Global Counter-Terrorism Coordination Compact entities, who will provide their respective perspectives, experiences and good practices on the integration of behavioural insights to prevent and counter terrorism. The launch event will also include a presentation by UNOCT on the Hub and its programme of work, in addition to two other programmatic presentations by Mr. Fahad Al Kuwari from Hamad Bin Khalifa University of the State of Qatar, and Mr. Paul Daniell, Executive Director of the Strategy and Capability in the New South Wales Government.

Who?
Opening Remarks

Mr. Vladimir Voronkov, Under-Secretary-General of UNOCT

Guest of Honor

H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the State of Qatar

Distinguished Speakers

Major General Abdul Aziz Abdullah Al-Ansari, Director of the Department of International Cooperation and Chairman of the National Counter-Terrorism Committee, Ministry of Interior, the State of Qatar
Mr. Achim Steiner, Administrator, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Ms. Ghada Fathi Waly, Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)
H.E. Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)
Ms. Michèle Coninsx, Assistant Secretary-General and Executive Director, Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate

Programmatic Presentations

Mr. Muhammad Rafiuddin Shah, Chief of Policy, Knowledge Management and

Coordination Branch of UNOCT

Mr. Fahad Al Kuwari, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, the State of Qatar
Mr. Paul Daniell, Executive Director, Strategy and Capability, New South Wales Government Education Standards Authority & Lecturer, The University of Sydney, Australia

When?
Monday, 7 December 2020 from 9:00am to 10:30am, New York time; and 5:00pm to 6:30pm, Doha, Qatar time.

Where?
The event will be open to media and streamed live on UN WebTV (https://webtv.un.org).

Background
Insights from behavioural science contribute to gain a better understanding of the threat of terrorism and violent extremism, which requires evidence-based research and analysis of individual, contextual and structural factors affecting human motivations, actions, interactions and responses.
A behavioural insights approach enables the identification of risk and resilience factors and the development of empirically validated interventions for policymakers and practitioners to effectively prevent and counter violent extremism.
In this context, the ‘International Hub on Behavioural Insights to Counter Terrorism’ has been established as a UNOCT Programme Office in Doha, Qatar, through a contribution agreement signed between UNOCT and the State of Qatar on 8 September 2020.
The Hub will perform three core functions:

conduct and advance research in behavioural sciences to better understand the drivers and factors contributing to radicalization leading to violent extremism and terrorism;
provide capacity-building assistance to Member States, regional organizations and civil society partners to develop and implement programmes, projects and initiatives that integrate behavioural insights to counter terrorism; and
promote communication, outreach and partnerships to share knowledge, expertise, experiences and lessons learned on behaviourally informed counter-terrorism interventions.

The International Hub will leverage the expertise of local, regional and international counter- terrorism actors, and enhance programming cooperation and coordination with the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Coordination Compact entities operating in the field for impactful and “all-of-UN” programme delivery on behavioural insights to counter terrorism.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Visit website: https://bit.ly/OCT-BI
Contact : Ms. Laurence Gerard, gerardl@un.org

Global Pledge for Action Webinar: Gender equality in the context of COVID-19
2020-12-07 10:00 - 17:00 (America/Halifax) | Virtual
as part of the series of six sessions on implementing the Global Pledge for Action by Religious Actors and Faith-Based Organizations to Address the COVID-19 Pandemic in Collaboration with the United Nations
Co-facilitated by the UN Alliance of Civilizations, UN Office on Genocide Prevention and the Responsibility to Protect, and Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

The UN Alliance of Civilization (UNAOC), the Office on Genocide Prevention and Responsibility to Protect (OSAPG) and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) held a virtual consultation with religious leaders and actors on 28 May 2020. The consultation was organized in response to the 22 April call by the UN Secretary-General to religious actors to contribute to wider efforts against the pandemic and its consequences. The meeting brought together religious leaders and actors as well as faith-based organizations to discuss possible areas of action and collaboration with the United Nations in the common fight against COVID-19 and its socio-economic impacts. This consultation resulted in the Global Pledge for Action, which includes a declaration by religious leaders and actors with assurances and commitments in response to COVID-19, and a mapping of ongoing activities and possible areas of collaboration with the United Nations.
The first webinar, entitled “Gender equality in the context of COVID-19”, will be held via Cisco Webex on Monday, 7 December 2020 at 10:00-11:30 EDT/16:00-17:30 CET.
For the opening panel discussion, we are delighted to have confirmations from Ahmed Shaheed (UN Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief), Nahla Haidar (member of the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women), Samuel Jayakumar (South Asia Forum for Freedom of Religion or Belief) and Ghida Anani (founder and director of ABAAD – Resource Centre for Gender Equality). Ibrahim Salama (Chief of OHCHR Human Rights Treaties Branch) will facilitate the inter-active discussion and peer-to-peer learning.
In the second part of this webinar on 7 December, all participants are kindly invited to present good practices and lessons learnt, and identify specific action needed to promote gender equality in the context of COVID-19. Please feel free to raise any questions, challenges and opportunities as well as to explore options for follow-up and further collaboration.
Participants need to have experience working in the field of combating COVID-19 and its impacts on society. If interested, please send an email with the designated person’s name, contact details and institutional affiliation to mwiener@ohchr.org with copy to anajimenez@unops.org and cruciani@un.org and you will receive the link to join the webinars following the registration.
Learn more about the Global Pledge for Action

Deadline - Call for Proposals: Grant Initiative on Sport and its Values as a Tool to Prevent Violent Extremism
2020-12-09 23:00 - 23:59 (Europe/Paris) | Online
The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), within the framework of the UN Global Programme on Security of Major Sporting Events, and Promotion of Sport and its Values as a Tool to Prevent Violent Extremism, implemented by the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), in partnership with the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI), the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and the International Centre for Sport and Security (ICSS), is pleased to launch a call for proposals to reinforce partnerships and cooperation with civil society organizations and non-State actors, with particular focus on youth-led organizations, while supporting them in delivering innovative projects, disseminating lessons learned and communicating best practices on how to make full use of the power of sport and its social values as a tool to prevent violent extremism.

UNAOC Fellowship Alumni Event: “Building peace and fostering social cohesion in the age of new media”
2020-12-10 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Halifax) | Virtual
Organized by the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and supported by the Federal Foreign Office of the Republic of Germany

When: Thursday 10 December from 11:00AM to 1:00AM EST.
Where: https://www.unaoc.org/fellowship-alumni-event

Background
Across the world, we have witnessed an upsurge in hate speech, bigotry and racist rhetoric on social media and other forms of communication. In the words of the High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), Miguel Ángel Moratinos: “Stigmatization and vilification targeting certain communities based on their religion or belief is an affront to Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.” In line with its motto “Many Cultures, One Humanity”, UNAOC has worked on addressing these challenges by adopting a whole-of-society approach to foster intercultural and interfaith dialogue, building bridges of understanding and countering stereotyping and polarization.
Promoting the use of new media to foster social cohesion and sustainable peace has become crucial to tackle these threats and to deepen progress across the United Nations agenda, UNAOC is working closely to that effect with a wide range of stakeholders such as media professionals, policy makers, the private sector, civil society, youth organizations, women advocates, educators, religious and community leaders and more. In this context, UNAOC has invited twenty young professionals and civil society leaders from Europe, North America, the Middle East and North Africa, to share their recommendations and good practices for the meaningful use of new media and information technology in the global efforts for sustainable peace and social cohesion. All participants are UNAOC Fellows, professionally involved in the fields of intercultural and interreligious dialogue, media and peacebuilding.

The UNAOC Fellowship Programme and its Alumni Network
The Fellowship program is one of UNAOC’s flagship programs funded and supported by the Federal Republic of Germany. It’s an intercultural exchange programme between young professionals and civil society leaders from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), and Europe and North America (EUNA). The Fellowship aims at deconstructing stereotypes and at fostering dialogue and understanding between youth of different faiths and cultures. During their trip, UNAOC Fellows meet with a wide range of stakeholders. Together, they explore opportunities for intercultural collaboration and exchange good practices on how to address current global challenges.
In 2020, the Fellowship Programme took the form of a virtual capacity-building exchange programme focused on “Building peace in the age of new media”. All 2020 UNAOC Fellows were selected for their professional achievements in the fields of media and peace-building. After completing their Fellowship, participants join the UNAOC Fellowship Alumni Network, a global pool of 250+ young experts and civil society leaders from 53 countries. UNAOC Fellowship Alumni are professionally involved in a wide spectrum of activities.

Objectives of the Event
The High Representative for the UNAOC will lead an interactive discussion with twenty UNAOC Fellowship Alumni from Europe, North America, the Middle East, and North Africa, on the role new media can play in building peace and fostering social cohesion.
In their exchange with the High Representative, discussants will share good practices and ideas about how to harness the power of new media and information technology to support the global community and international organizations in their work towards building sustainable peace and fostering social cohesion.
Together they will touch upon underlying issues such as exploring the definition of peace; fighting misinformation through media literacy; promoting inclusive intercultural and interreligious dialogue; drawing the line between hate speech and freedom of speech; engaging in All-of-Society partnerships
Basing their interventions on their own experience on the ground and engagement with UNAOC, Fellowship Alumni will share recommendations on how to leverage new media as a tool for good in the prevention and mediation of conflicts and in achieving peace.
Participants to the latest edition of the Fellowship Programme will share the lessons learned during their virtual visits to Austria, Canada, Egypt, France, Germany, Lebanon, Morocco, Qatar, Spain, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates and the United States on the role of new media in peacebuilding.

Virtual Exhibition
The event platform will also feature an online exhibition hall with virtual booths where the audience will be able to learn more about UNAOC, its #forSafeWorship campaign, 2020 UNAOC Fellows’ media projects, and other UNAOC programmes and activities.

Speakers
H.E. Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos
High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations
H.E. Mr. Günter Sautter
Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative of the Federal Republic of Germany to the United Nations
Mr. Al Mustapha Sguenfle
Journalist for the Moroccan News Agency
Ms. Alba Sabaté-Gauxachs
Professor of Journalism and Global Communication Management at the Blanquerna School of Communication and International Relations, Ramon Llull University
Mr. Ali Ghaith
Media and Communications Specialist for CARE
Ms. Amal El Jabali
Inclusive and Outreach Education Assistant at UNICEF
Ms. Anne Parsons
Visual Communications Manager at Kiron Open Higher Education
Mr. David Fischer
Media Coordinator for Human Rights Watch
Ms. Elizabeth Arif-Fear
Founder of “Voice of Salam”
Mr. Jacopo Ottaviani
Chief Data Officer at Code for Africa
Mr. Josh Cass
Founding member of the Forum for Religion and International Affairs
Ms. Kawtar Amrani
Product Policy Manager – Trust and Safety for TikTok
Ms. Kholoud Al Ajarma
Anthropologist and Refugee Rights’ Advocate
Ms. Najwa Ben Wheba
Social Media Journalist for Al Jazeera Arabic
Ms. Orla Murphy
Speechwriter to the President of the 75th session of the General Assembly
Mr. Peter Mosaad
Co-Founder of Robabikia
Ms. Radwa Sakr
Administrative Assistant and Consultant to the Executive Director of the Anna Lindh Foundation
Ms. Samiha Tadjine
Academic Advisor for the Advanced Science and Creativity Association
Mr. Tim Mortimer
Programme Manager at The Faith & Belief Forum
Ms. Veronika Verner
Communication Specialist for the Council of Europe
Mr. Walid Alnabahin
Founder of the Media Show initiative
Mr. Yehuda Silverman
Faculty Diversity Postdoctoral Fellow at Ursuline College

National Focal Points Meeting for the UN Global Programme on Security of Major Sporting Events, and Promotion of Sport and its Values as a Tool to Prevent Violent Extremism by the UNOCT, UNAOC, UNICRI and ICSS.
2020-12-15 09:30 - 12:30 (America/Halifax) | Virtual
The two National Focal Points Meetings are platforms organized in the context of the UN Global Programme on Security of Major Sporting Events, and Promotion of Sport and its Values as a Tool to Prevent Violent Extremism by the UNOCT, UNAOC, UNICRI and ICSS. The meetings provide an opportunity to present the key features and deliverables of the UN Global Sports Programme (Handbook, Guides, Communication campaign and an App), and to develop valuable engagement on ongoing activities. The meetings will be divided into two- PVE through Sport Values and Security of Major Sporting Events. The NFP nominated within the Security of Major Sporting Events workstream will meet on the 15th December 2020 from 9.30 AM until 12.30 PM (New York Time) while the NFPs working on PVE through sport values will meet on the 10th December 2020 same time.
The National Focal Points play a critical role in the successful implementation of the UN Global Sport Programme to ensure national vision, priorities and specific needs are duly considered. The NFPs will help advise and shape the development, dissemination and implementation of technical assistance provided by UNOCT and its partners by sharing good practices, information, expertise, and experience. The partners will seek their advice to better provide policy and practice level technical assistance aiming at strengthened preparedness and capacity in the field of major sporting events security and better integrate sport values-based initiatives within national and regional action plans for PVE.

Deadline: First Online Youth Consultation on Preventing Violent Extremism Through Sport
2021-01-04 16:00 (America/Halifax)

First Online Youth Consultation on Preventing Violent Extremism Through Sport
2021-01-20 09:00 - 2021-01-21 12:00 (America/Halifax) | Online
Preventing violent extremism through sport – An interactive youth consultation
Wednesday, January 20, 2021 (09.00 AM – 12.00 PM EST) and Thursday, January 21, 2021 (10.00 AM – 12.00 PM EST)

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2419 (2018) on Youth, Peace and Security recognizes the “growing contribution of sport and culture to the realization of development and peace in the promotion of tolerance and respect as well as the empowerment of youth and women, individuals and communities. More recently, UNSCR 2535 (2020) called upon the United Nations (UN) entities to improve capacity-building by integrating the Youth, Peace and Security agenda into their technical assistance plans. Sports have historically played a significant role in the dissemination of positive values throughout the world and across civilization and cultures, thus making sports a powerful vector for the development of efforts aimed at preventing and countering violent extremism and radicalization.
In this context and within the framework of the “Global Programme on Security of Major Sporting Events, and Promotion of Sport and its Values as a Tool to Prevent Violent Extremism”, the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), and its partners, the UN Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI), the UN Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and the International Centre for Sport Security (ICSS), through its Save the Dream initiative, are working to launch a series of initiatives within the prevention of violent extremism component of the UN Global Sports Programme:

Global Awareness Campaign to Say No to Terrorism while promoting the use of Sport and its Values as a Tool to Prevent Violent Extremism. The Campaign will have a global dimension and aim to have its highest moment of visibility on the occasion of the 2020 Tokyo Olympic games (taking place in 2021) and the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Guide for Policymakers to promote the role of sports and its values in preventing violent extremism and to ensure the inclusion of sports values-based initiatives in the PVE National Action Plans.
Training Handbook and App to assist the organizers of sport events to conduct initiatives aiming at preventing violent extremism by leveraging on sport values such as tolerance, respect, integrity, solidarity, and equality and advocate for youth and children’s participation in sports as a recreational activity helping current and new generations build transferable skills such as confidence, self-control and teamwork.

The current youth generation is acknowledged as the largest in history, with the global agenda increasingly focused on young people as key drivers for meaningly and impactful social movements. Their diversity in course of actions and rationale has greatly contributed to identifying and addressing the triggers of violent extremism. Moreover, young people are the most able to mobilize their peers and to become principal stakeholders of societies that are increasingly free from stereotypes, discrimination and extremism. Their engagement in the prevention of violent extremism spans from sports, art and street theatre initiatives, to online campaigns and capacity development support within global reach. Hence the several elements of the Global Programme will be designed in collaboration with young people as key
stakeholders.
In this online consultation we would like to consult with and collect young leaders’ inputs on the above-mentioned deliverables (campaign, guide, training handbook and app). At the same time, we would like to create a connection between the youth and decision makers, both within as beyond the global programme, by creating a safe space for youth to dialogue with Member States on how to improve the integration of youth in decision making processes.
Following the event, a summary document will be circulated to stimulate continued conversation and sharing information on what is needed to include in compendium and meaningfully include young people in preventing violent extremism at the local, national, regional and global levels.

Tentative Agenda

Wednesday, January 20
(09.00 AM – 12.00 PM EST)
Part I: Warm-up – Welcome and Introduction (20 min)
– Pep talk + Q&A with an inspiring athlete
Part II – First half – Youth Inputs on the project’s deliverables (1hr and 15min)
– Policy Guide
– Training Handbook
– App
– Communication Campaign
Part III – Networking Break (10 min)
Part IV – Second half – Youth Inputs on the project’s deliverables (1hr and 15min)
– Policy Guide
– Training Handbook
– App
– Communication Campaign

Thursday, January 21
(10.00 AM – 12.00 PM EST)
Part V: Game Strategy I – Role of Governments (45 min)
– Introductory remarks about the role of NFP within the project (by UNOCT and/or
NFP’s) – 10 min
– Ice-breaker case studies regarding policy experiences on Sport and PVE – 35 min
Part VI – Game Strategy II – Dialogue with Member States – NFPs (1hr and 15 min)
– Discuss how to establish cooperation mechanisms within the scope of the project and beyond

Live Q&A: Youth Solidarity Fund Call for Applications
2021-01-25 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Halifax) | Online
In December 2020, UNAOC launched the Call for Applications for the ninth edition of the Youth Solidarity Fund, inviting youth-led organizations to submit project proposals that seek to promote peace and social inclusion through improved understanding, respect, and collaboration across borders, cultures, faiths, and beliefs.
The application process may seem daunting, but we are here to help! UNAOC is organizing a Facebook live to address some of the most common questions and help you through the process. You may submit your questions in advance on social media by using the hashtags #YouthSolidarityFund and/or #UNAOCyouth.
Join the YSF Live Q&A Here

Park East Synagogue and UN International Holocaust Remembrance Virtual Service
2021-01-25 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Halifax) | Online
Click Here to View the Virtual Service Download the Agenda

B’nai B’rith Annual U.N. Holocaust Remembrance Event
2021-01-27 09:15 - 11:00 (America/Halifax)
The B’nai B’rith International’s Office of U.N. Affairs will celebrate the annual Holocaust Remembrance event on the International Day to Commemorate the Victims of the Holocaust, January 27.
B’nai B’rith CEO Dan Mariaschin will be joined this year by U.N. High Representative to the Alliance of Civilizations and newly-declared focal point on anti-Semitism, Miguel Angel Moratinos, for a discussion on global anti-Semitism.
The event will begin at 9:15 a.m. ET.

A Celebration of Human Fraternity: Virtual Ceremony
2021-02-04 08:30 - 09:00 (Asia/Dubai) | Online
The Higher Committee of Human Fraternity cordially invites you to attend a virtual Celebration of Human Fraternity on 4 February, 2021, 5:30pm GST (8:30am EST).
Join us as we recognize the honorees of the 2021 Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, and to commemorate the first United Nations International Day of Human Fraternity.
The Zayed Award recognizes the institutions and community of people who are spreading the work of human fraternity and coexistence around the world. It was inspired by the Document on Human Fraternity which was signed by His Eminence the Grand Imam Dr. Ahmed El-Tayeb and His Holiness Pope Francis on February 4, 2019 in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates.
This year, these two symbols of humanity will once again convene alongside notable leaders from around the world. Together, we will take the opportunity to reflect on the exceptional accomplishments of this year’s honorees, and those that inspire us in their daily work — reviving and bringing to life the values of human fraternity across peoples.
Celebrate with us at www.zayedaward.org on 4 February, 2021, at 5:30 PM GST.
With peace,
The Higher Committee for Human Fraternity

https://www.unaoc.org/wp-content/uploads/d378bfc3-ccaa-440b-8d6f-d144c7a40040.mp4

WATCH LIVE
04 FEBRUARY 2021
5:30—6:00 PM GST
8:30-9:00 AM EST/New York Time
Website:
www.zayedaward.org

The International Day of Human Fraternity: A Pathway to the Future
2021-02-04 11:00 - 12:30 (America/Halifax) | Online
In Commemoration of the World Interfaith Harmony Week

Co-organized by the Permanent Mission of Egypt to the United Nations and The Permanent Mission of the United Arab Emirates to the United Nations in partnership with the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and sponsorship of the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity

In recognition of the moral imperatives of all religions, convictions and beliefs to call for peace, tolerance and mutual understanding, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed the first week of February every year the World Interfaith Harmony Week through the unanimous adoption of resolution A/RES/65/5 World Interfaith Harmony Week in 2010. Since the adoption of the resolution, many UN Member States, UN entities, faith actors and relevant entities re-iterate their commitment to spreading the messages of interfaith harmony and goodwill in the world’s churches, mosques, synagogues, temples and other places of worship during that week, based on love of God and love of one’s neighbor or on love of the good and love of one’s neighbor, each according to their own religious traditions or convictions.
The COVID-19 pandemic has put to the test our shared human values. It laid bare deep-rooted inequalities in our societies. Communities were divided across religious, ethnic and cultural lines. Growing religious hatred, stigma and manifestations of various forms of discrimination against vulnerable communities including minorities risk undermining global efforts to recover and rebuild better. This phenomenon is an affront to the values and principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, in particular the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion as well as the UN General Assembly resolution 36/55 of 25 November 1981 “Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and of Discrimination Based on Religion or Belief”.
As such, state and relevant non-state actors including, in particular, religious leaders from across the faith spectrum play a vital role in promoting dialogue among all religious groups leading to an improved awareness and understanding of the common values shared by all mankind. Promoting acceptance and respect of religious and cultural diversity through interreligious and intercultural dialogue will create an environment conducive to building peaceful, just and inclusive societies. Member States who have the primary responsibility to counter discrimination and hate speech, and all relevant actors, including political and religious should promote inclusion and unity and to prevent, speak out and take strong action against racism, xenophobia, hate speech, violence, discrimination, including on the basis of age, and stigmatization (UNGA Resolution A/74/L.92 )
In that context, the United Nations General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/75/200 on 21 December 2020 proclaiming February 4 as the International Day of Human Fraternity to be observed every year as of 2021. The resolution co-sponsored by Egypt and the United Arab Emirates takes note of efforts and initiatives aimed at promoting interreligious and intercultural dialogue including the meeting between His Holiness Pope Francis and His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmad al-Tayeb on 4 February 2019 in Abu Dhabi that resulted in the signing of the “Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and living Together”. It also invites all Member States to further promote a culture of peace, tolerance, inclusion, understanding and solidarity.
In that sense, those humanistic principles are aligned with the goals and objectives of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) which was created in 2005 to advance intercultural and interreligious dialogue as a viable tool to prevent and defuse identity-based tensions UNAOC works to advance mutual respect for cultures, traditions, and religious beliefs. Over the years, it has provided a global platform for dialogue between faith actors across the faith spectrum emanating from a recognition that genuine dialogue bridges divide and overcomes prejudices, stigmatization, misperceptions, and polarization. Fulfilling a world of “One Humanity, Many Cultures” is the raison d’etre of UNAOC (A/64/14, A/69/312)
The celebration of the first International Day of Human Fraternity within the setting of World Interfaith Harmony Week provides an opportunity to highlight the principles and value included in the Document of Human Fraternity and explore good practices towards its implementation as a pathway to the future as we rebuild a better world.

Download the Concept Note

AGENDA (tentative)

11:00 – 11:30 High-Level Opening
H.E. Mr. António Guterres
United Nations Secretary-General (video message)
H.E. Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos
The High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)
H.E. Mr. Mohamed Fathi Ahmed Edrees
Permanent Representative of Egypt
H.E. Mrs. Lana Zaki Nusseibeh
Permanent Representative of UAE
H.E. Judge Mohammad Abdul-Salam
Secretary-General of the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity

11:30 – 12:20 Interactive Panel
Interventions by Member States
Interventions by Religious Leaders/Faith Actors/FBOs

12:20 – 12:30 Conclusion
Moderator of the event: Ms. Nihal Saad
Chief-of-Cabinet & Spokesperson for UNAOC

Deadline Extended: Call for Applications for Youth Solidarity Fund
2021-02-07 17:00 - 23:59 (America/Halifax)

Deadline for Applications: Web Development and Graphic Design Team for UNAOC
2021-02-17 08:00 - 17:00 (America/Halifax) | Online

Webinar on Women's Mediation in Mali and Central African Republic
2021-02-18 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Halifax) | Virtual
