CPLP Leader: Freedom of Expression Key to Global Peace
Freedom of expression and media pluralism are not just democratic ideals—they are “strategic instruments” essential for bridging the global cultural divide. This was the core message delivered by Zacarias da Costa, Executive Secretary of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP), during the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations Global Forum in Cascais, Portugal.
Speaking to a high-level audience on Wednesday, da Costa argued that at a time when cultural and religious conflicts pose significant global challenges, the CPLP serves as a vital model for cooperation and fraternity. He emphasized that the community’s shared foundations—including multilingualism and equal access to technology—are “inalienable values” that foster dialogue across civilizations.
A Unified Front Against Global Challenges
The CPLP leader underscored that the nine member nations—Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, Mozambique, Portugal, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Timor-Leste—are united by more than just the Portuguese language. They share a commitment to peace, democracy, human rights, and social justice.
However, da Costa did not shy away from the hurdles facing the international community. He voiced deep concern over the “immobility” of current multilateral systems, arguing that global governance models are often outdated and ill-equipped to handle the modern world’s profound transformations.
Among the most pressing “inexorable threats,” da Costa listed:
- The accelerating climate crisis
- The resurgence of global hunger
- The lack of consensus on a secure, participatory global health model
- The complexities of a sustainable energy transition
The Essential Role of Women and Youth
To break this deadlock, da Costa called for a more inclusive approach to decision-making. He argued that any effective global governance model must recognize the contributions of civil society, with a specific focus on organizations led by women and young people.
“The role of women and youth as fundamental agents of social transformation and builders of intercultural bridges recommends their inclusion in decision-making processes,” da Costa stated. He noted that the current global instability actually offers a unique opportunity to strengthen partnerships and build more resilient, equitable societies capable of preventing future conflicts.
Marking 20 Years of the Alliance of Civilizations
The 10th UNAOC Global Forum marks the 20th anniversary of the initiative’s founding. The event has drawn prominent world leaders, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres, King Felipe VI of Spain, and Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.
The forum, which concludes on Wednesday, aims to evaluate two decades of progress in intercultural dialogue and set the agenda for the future. For the CPLP, the mission remains clear: to promote the world’s diverse cultures as a “common heritage of humanity” that must be protected for future generations.
Image: Pexels – Lena Khrupina
