2024-11-27 10:18:00
“A Freedom of expression, media pluralism, multilingualism, equal access to scientific and technological knowledge and the possibility of expression of all cultures are inalienable values and are considered by the CPLP as a strategic tool for promoting dialog and for building alliances between civilizations,” said Zacarias da Costa, in his speech at the United Nations (UN) Alliance of Civilizations Global Forum, held in Cascais, Portugal.
The Executive Secretary underlined that, in a global context, where conflicts “based on cultural and religious differences” continue to be “a significant challenge”, the CPLP “has embraced the task of being, increasingly, a space for cooperation, brotherhood and friendship between peoples”.
According to the manager, the community is worried about the inexorable advance of the climate threat, the resurgence of hunger, the difficulty of understanding a safer and more participatory global health model, the difficulty of calibrating a sustainable energy transition model and the difficulty of calibrating a sustainable energy transition model. “the immobility of a multilateral system with governance references inadequate to the challenges and needs of a profoundly changed world”.
“An effective global governance model capable of addressing these challenges will only be complete with the recognition of the inclusive contribution of diverse stakeholders, including civil society and, in particular, women- and youth-led organizations,” he said.
For Zacarias da Costa, “the role of women and youth as fundamental agents of social transformation and building intercultural bridges recommends their inclusion in decision-making processes.”
The head of the CPLP reiterated that the moment the world is experiencing is also “an opportunity to strengthen multilateralism, partnerships and global dialog”, to build societies “more resilient, inclusive and equitable, capable of preventing conflicts and generate solidarity responses to the challenges that arise.
He underlined CPLP’s commitment to “join its voice to the cause of promoting intercultural dialog, with the awareness that the cultures of the world constitute the common heritage of humanity and must be recognized and consolidated for the benefit of present and future generations” .
Until Wednesday, Cascais will host the 10th Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), at the Estoril Congress Center, with the presence of the United Nations Secretary General, António Guterres, and dozens of Foreign Ministers, senior officials of several international organizations and numerous former heads of state and government.
The forum celebrates the 20th anniversary of the founding of the Alliance of Civilizations and aims to take stock of the efforts made over the last two decades, with a view to planning the future of the initiative.
The opening ceremony of the Forum today was characterized by the speeches of António Guterres, the President of the Portuguese Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, the King of Spain, Felipe VI, and the High Representative of the UNAOC, Miguel Ángel Morantinos, among others.
The CPLP includes Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, Mozambique, Portugal, São Tomé and Príncipe and Timor-Leste as member states.
Read also: Over 40% of the population of CPLP countries does not have primary healthcare
What are the key challenges facing the CPLP in promoting freedom of expression among its member states?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Zacarias da Costa, CPLP Executive Secretary
Time.news Editor: Good day, Zacarias da Costa! Thank you for joining us today to discuss your recent speech at the UN Alliance of Civilizations Global Forum. You spoke passionately about the importance of freedom of expression and media pluralism in our societies. Could you elaborate on why these values are particularly critical in today’s world?
Zacarias da Costa: Thank you for having me! The values of freedom of expression, media pluralism, and multilingualism are essential because they form the bedrock of democratic societies. In a world rife with cultural and religious conflicts, facilitating dialog through diverse avenues of expression allows for better understanding and cooperation among peoples. These values promote not only tolerance but also the richness of collective human experience.
Time.news Editor: Absolutely, that makes sense. You also emphasized the CPLP’s commitment to addressing pressing global challenges like climate change and public health. How do you see the CPLP facilitating cooperation among its member states to tackle these issues?
Zacarias da Costa: The CPLP, or the Community of Portuguese Language Countries, aims to create a synergistic platform for collaboration among its members. By working together, we can address these fundamental challenges more effectively. For instance, sharing best practices related to sustainable energy transitions or creating health initiatives that take into account cultural backgrounds can lead to innovative solutions. We believe that a united front can amplify our efforts and reach more substantial outcomes.
Time.news Editor: You also mentioned the role of women and youth in this dialog. Why do you believe their inclusion in decision-making processes is crucial for social transformation?
Zacarias da Costa: Women and youth are key drivers of change. They not only bring fresh perspectives but often embody the resilience and adaptability that societies need to thrive in the face of challenges. When we include them in decision-making, we ensure that diverse voices are heard and that solutions are holistic and inclusive. This approach can lead to more equitable and representative governance, ultimately resulting in stronger communities.
Time.news Editor: It’s inspiring to hear the emphasis on inclusivity. Given the current geopolitical climate and the challenges to multilateralism, how do you envision strengthening global dialog and partnerships?
Zacarias da Costa: The current moment presents both challenges and opportunities. While multilateralism faces difficulties, there is a profound need for cooperation to address global issues. Emphasizing dialog through platforms like the CPLP allows for a rebuilding of trust and collaboration. We need to foster relationships that prioritize inclusion and understanding, which can create pathways for support and sustainability.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for sharing your vision with us, Mr. da Costa. As the world navigates through these complexities, it’s clear that fostering dialog and cooperation will be vital. What is your hope for the future?
Zacarias da Costa: My hope is for a world that truly embraces diversity as a strength and reaffirms its commitment to multilateralism. By nurturing environments where dialog thrives, we can build resilient societies equipped to face future challenges together, ensuring that every voice—no matter how small—is heard.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Zacarias da Costa, for your insights and commitment to fostering dialog and cooperation. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you!
Zacarias da Costa: Thank you for the opportunity. Let’s continue to work together for a more inclusive and equitable future.