Islamabad, June 30, 2026(Nosheen): The Centre for Strategic Perspectives (CSP), at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) hosted a public talk by H.E. Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, United Nations High Representative for the Alliance of Civilizations and UN Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia UNAOC). Dr. Neelum Nigar, in her introductory remarks, noted that the work of UNAOC remains highly relevant, as its emphasis on dialogue among cultures and religions reflects Pakistan’s enduring commitment to peaceful coexistence, interfaith harmony, constructive international engagement, and respect for all religions and civilizations.
In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Khalid Mahmood observed that the world is witnessing an alarming rise in identity-based polarization, religious intolerance, hate speech, violent extremism, and shrinking space for constructive dialogue, with Islamophobia emerging as one of the most serious manifestations of these trends. He stressed that Islamophobia has evolved beyond isolated acts of discrimination into a global challenge that threatens the universal principles of equality, human dignity, religious freedom, and peaceful coexistence. Highlighting the growing prevalence of anti-Muslim rhetoric, attacks on places of worship, and discriminatory narratives, he referred to the situation in India and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as examples of developments that have drawn widespread international concern over religious discrimination and intolerance. Reaffirming Pakistan’s principled position that nok religion should ever be associated with terrorism or extremism, nor any faith community subjected to hatred because of the actions of a few individuals, he recalled Pakistan’s leading role in securing the United Nations General Assembly’s designation of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia and welcomed the appointment of the UN Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia. Concluding, Ambassador Mahmood emphasized that lasting peace can only be achieved through mutual respect, intercultural dialogue, and inclusive engagement, while commending the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations for its vital role in fostering understanding, countering extremism, and promoting peaceful and resilient societies.
Delivering the keynote address, H.E. Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos observed that the international system stands at a defining inflection point, marked by growing geopolitical fragmentation, diminishing confidence in multilateral institutions, and an increasingly complex array of transnational challenges. He argued that restoring dialogue, rebuilding trust in multilateralism, and strengthening intercultural understanding are no longer aspirational objectives but strategic imperatives for preserving international peace, security, and sustainable development. Stressing that the world is undergoing a profound transformation, he called for renewed political leadership and collective international action to address global challenges through cooperation rather than confrontation. Mr. Moratinos cautioned that international discourse has increasingly become dominated by narrow security considerations, while the broader objective of achieving sustainable peace has gradually receded from the forefront of global policymaking. He observed that persistent conflicts, widening economic inequalities, the accelerating impacts of climate change, and the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence are reshaping the international landscape. While recognizing AI’s transformative potential, he underscored that it also presents profound ethical, social, and governance challenges that require responsible regulation and strengthened international cooperation. Highlighting the interconnected nature of contemporary global challenges, Mr. Moratinos emphasized that issues such as climate change, terrorism, pandemics, artificial intelligence, and sustainable development transcend national boundaries and cannot be effectively addressed through unilateral action. He argued that the defining question of the twenty-first century is not whether nations can outcompete one another, but whether they possess the political will to cooperate in addressing shared challenges. Reaffirming that multilateralism remains the only credible framework for mobilizing collective action, he stressed that dialogue and international cooperation are indispensable for securing a more stable, peaceful, and prosperous future. Expressing concern over growing polarization, religious intolerance, cultural divisions, and the spread of misinformation, Mr. Moratinos warned that diversity is too often portrayed as a source of division rather than recognized as one of humanity’s greatest strengths. He stressed that inclusive societies founded on pluralism, mutual respect, and intercultural dialogue are inherently more resilient and better equipped to prevent conflict, counter extremism, and promote peaceful coexistence. In this regard, he reaffirmed the central role of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations in fostering dialogue and strengthening understanding across cultures and civilizations.
Referring to Pakistan’s role in the evolving international landscape, Mr. Moratinos observed that the country is uniquely positioned to contribute to addressing global challenges through its strategic location, active diplomacy, and role as a bridge between regions and civilizations. He commended Pakistan’s longstanding support for the United Nations, its contributions to UN peacekeeping, and its consistent commitment to multilateral cooperation. He also highlighted Pakistan’s rich civilizational heritage, noting that its history of cultural interaction offers valuable lessons for advancing dialogue and mutual understanding. Concluding his address, Mr. Moratinos called for the renewal of multilateralism in response to contemporary geopolitical realities and the emerging multipolar international order. He emphasized that countries such as Pakistan have an increasingly important role to play in advancing inclusive diplomacy, strengthening intercultural understanding, and contributing to international peace and cooperative global governance. Reaffirming the mission of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, he stressed that dialogue remains the most effective instrument for rebuilding trust, overcoming divisions, and shaping a more peaceful and inclusive world.