NAM Centre for Human Rights and Cultural Diversity Calls for Renewed Commitment to Peace Dialogue and Cultural Understanding Tehran 21 September 2026

NAM Centre for Human Rights and Cultural Diversity Calls for Renewed Commitment to Peace Dialogue and Cultural Understanding Tehran 21 September 2026

NAM Centre for Human Rights and Cultural Diversity Calls for Renewed Commitment to Peace Dialogue and Cultural Understanding

Tehran 21 September 2026

 

On the occasion of the International Day of Peace 2026, the NAM Centre for Human Rights and Cultural Diversity reaffirms that lasting peace is a shared responsibility and a fundamental aspiration of all peoples and nations. Peace cannot be sustained solely through the absence of armed conflict; it requires , inter alia, respecting equality of sovereign states, refraining from coercion, non-intervention in domestic affairs of countries,  respect for human dignity, human rights, justice, dialogue, cultural diversity and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

The Centre emphasizes that in an increasingly interconnected yet diverse world, respect for cultural diversity and mutual understanding among civilizations and peoples constitute essential foundations for sustainable peace. Differences in culture, history, traditions, values and social experience should be regarded as sources of mutual enrichment rather than grounds for division, exclusion or confrontation.

At a time marked by protracted conflicts, humanitarian challenges, growing polarization and increasing pressures on the international order, the Centre calls for renewed commitment to multilateralism, dialogue and peaceful cooperation, in accordance with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and international law. The peaceful resolution of disputes, respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of States, and the rejection of violence against civilians remain indispensable to the achievement of lasting peace.

The Centre further stresses that peace and human rights are mutually reinforcing. The protection of human dignity, equality and fundamental rights contributes to social stability and peaceful coexistence, while sustainable peace creates the conditions necessary for societies and individuals to fully enjoy their rights and pursue their development.

The Centre expresses particular concern over the human suffering and destruction resulting from ongoing conflicts in different parts of the world and underscores the urgent need for the protection of civilians, respect for international humanitarian law, humanitarian assistance, accountability for violations, and genuine efforts towards peaceful and just solutions.

The Non-Aligned Movement, representing a diverse community of States and peoples with different historical, cultural and civilizational experiences, has an important role to play in promoting a culture of peace based on dialogue, mutual respect, solidarity and understanding. In this regard, cultural diversity should be recognized not as an obstacle to peace, but as an important resource for building more inclusive, tolerant and harmonious societies.

On this International Day of Peace, the NAM Centre for Human Rights and Cultural Diversity reiterates its commitment to working with NAM Member States, the United Nations, international and regional organizations, national human rights institutions, academic institutions and civil society to promote human rights, cultural diversity, dialogue and peaceful coexistence.

The pursuit of peace is not merely the responsibility of States or international institutions; it is a shared commitment to future generations. A culture of peace can be built only when diversity is respected, dialogue is sustained, justice is pursued and human dignity is placed at the heart of international cooperation. Respecting equality of sovereign states and refraining from coercion and non-intervention in domestic affairs of countries should be the main pillars of any regional as well as global initiative for peace.

International Day of Peace 2026
NAM Centre for Human Rights and Cultural Diversity
Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran