World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development
"89% of all current conflicts in the world occur in countries with low intercultural dialogue"
What is low versus high intercultural dialogue?
Some definitions:
Intercultural dialogue=a respectful cultural encounter, mutual understanding and constructive exchange of perspectives [UNESCO]
Low versus High intercultural dialogue=Terms coined by anthropologist Edward T. Hall that categorize the communication styles in different cultures.
Groups with low intercultural dialogue tend toward individualism, value efficient and concise communication, logic and analysis, favor written communication, and are action-oriented.
Groups with high intercultural dialogue privilege collectivism, favor more intuitive and non-verbal communication, building relationships, value context over words, and tend more toward formality and observing traditional rituals.
While these are not hard-and-fast definitions, research has shown they have an important impact on world peace.
Cultural expression is more important than ever
It is no surprise that engaging in the arts and creativity are key to increasing intercultural understanding and dialogue.