World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development

World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development

The World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development is an international event that acknowledges the rich mosaic of cultures and customs around the globe. The observance of this day serves to strengthen the values of understanding, tolerance and solidarity. It encourages communities to engage in dialogue and adopt intercultural practices that support diversity and foster inclusive societies.

This annual observance was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2002, following UNESCO's adoption of the Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity in 2001. The day highlights the importance of cultural heritage and diversity, and aims to provide opportunities for cooperative actions across communities to cultivate a deeper respect for each other's differences. By celebrating various aspects of individual cultures, this day promotes the exchange of ideas and knowledge, facilitates communal understanding, and helps achieve global sustainable development goals.

The World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development occurs every year on May 21. This day serves as a reminder to individuals, groups, and institutions across Australia and the world to recognise and embrace cultural differences for the greater good.

Facts about this UN Observance

• A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that individuals living in diverse communities reported greater trust and social cohesion.
• According to the UN, 75% of the world’s major conflicts are related to cultural aspects.
• According to a report by McKinsey & Company, companies in the top quartile for ethnic and cultural diversity in their executive teams were 36% more likely to have above-average profitability than companies in the bottom quartile.
• Australia is home to over 200 different languages, with English being the most common. Other languages spoken in Australia include Mandarin, Arabic, Cantonese, and Vietnamese.
• The indigenous population of Austrailia has thrived for over 60,000 years, comprising 500 different tribes with their own distinct culture, language, and traditions.

In the News and Trending in Australia for World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development

Top things to do in Australia for this observance

• Attend local community events and get to know the people in your community. Meeting new people from different cultures and walks of life is a good way to bridge any cultural gaps.
• Explore UNESCO's World Heritage interactive exhibit. It features images from different cultures all around the world.
• Watch a movie about cultural diversity in Australia today. Here are our top picks:
  1. The Australian Dream (2019) - A documentary focusing on the experiences of former AFL player Adam Goodes and the conversation about racism and cultural diversity in Australian sports.
  2. Gurrumul (2018) - A documentary about the life and music of Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu, a blind Indigenous Australian musician who achieved international fame.
  3. The Secret River (2015) - A two-part television series that follows the life of a convict in the early years of the Australian colony and his interactions with the Indigenous people.
• Plan a trip to the Immigration Museum in Melbourne. The museum celebrates Australia’s multicultural society and shares stories of immigrants who have shaped the nation.