Agree to Differ

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In that respect, the first thing we have to do to deconstruct the

‘clash of civilizations’ myth is to reflect carefully and without bias

on relations between Muslims and non-Muslims. Our aim must

be to move beyond the ‘clash of civilizations’ narrative in order

to identify and outline the basic components of a new paradigm

that would help us understand the common values that bind us

together and the complex interplay of cultural influences which

contributes to create our shared cultural framework.

How do we create a new paradigm, one in which there is no

‘us and them’ but only a ‘we’ – a complex, multilayered, multi-

faceted ‘we’ made up of multiple, diverse and mutually enriching

identities? What kind of language is needed to describe this new

‘we’? What new ways must be devised to teach our children

history? What new awareness must we create among journalists,

opinion leaders and policymakers? What are the responsibilities

of academics, scholars and opinion makers in that respect?

Indeed, much of today’s discussion about relations between

Muslims and non-Muslims is polemical and polarizing–and this

is as true of the ideologically-driven right wing as it is of Muslim

extremists. What is needed is a more balanced approach, a reflec-

tive evidence-based argument that can inform a conversation

looking not for victory but for mutual understanding and respect.

One of the key risks we face is that a binary ‘clash of civiliza-

tions’ worldview increasingly shapes a world in which the views

of political and religious extremists on both sides engage in fear

mongering that disproportionately affects popular culture and

influences mainstream majority opinion.

Towards a new paradigm

We face a set of extremely serious challenges in society – on

welfare, on the economy, on our international relations – and a

handful of organizations are busy creating a quiet revolution by

bringing together fresh faces and ideas to forge new relationships

and come up with new solutions.

This is why many organizations, including the OIC, aim to

shine a searchlight on the cultural underpinnings of political and

economic dynamics, while curating wide-ranging discussions

with people from different sections of society. There are other

groups forming this wave of change. While some of these organi-

zations are young and new and others are well-known bodies

with a long heritage, what they share is a pluralistic, inclusive

approach to debate and network building.

Creating social cohesion

Nations and communities are becoming more diverse. Managing

increasingly diverse societies is a challenge for most countries

and their leaders. In that respect, how to develop and implement

policies that encourage dialogue, recognition, participation and

interaction becomes even more important.

How community leaders can constructively manage ethnic,

cultural and religious differences, while protecting and preserv-

ing human rights and human dignity and to build shared

societies, is a challenge that needs to be addressed.

Identity-based divisions and conflicts must be reduced and

eventually eliminated. For that, constructing shared futures

where diversity is not a source of tension, but is celebrated,

comes at the forefront.

When, as a consequence of discrimination on any ground,

people are excluded from society, the overall quality of life is also

severely affected. For that reason, it is important that the legal

framework should protect the rights of all individuals. However,

this is not enough. Also, the mindset of all citizens needs to be

tolerant and respectful to their fellow citizens, regardless of their

identities. Furthermore, it is highly important that education

systems demonstrate commitment for a shared society.

On the other hand, fear of radicalization is on the increase,

and in many instances rightly so. Consequently, steps must

be taken to reduce tensions and hostility between different

segments of society.

There are different ways to define group cohesion, depending

on how one conceptualizes this concept. Cohesion can be more

specifically defined as the tendency for a group to be in unity

We must follow a path towards a sustainable and just civilization based on human solidarity and cultural pluralism

Image: OIC

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