World citizen for everyone

The current rapidity of communications and transport technologies has culminated in a feeling of proximity and almost rendered the world a truly global village.

Closeness comes with its own challenges and conflicts of values, as different cultures are confronted with each other. This inadvertent dynamic calls for the creation of an environment that fosters harmonious existence based on the principle of “unity in diversity”.

But are the world’s citizens ready to appreciate the diversity of humanity? Can we search for a new model of one-ness of humankind that promotes a global culture of world citizenship? The UN Agenda 21 provides a strong premise for UN agencies and member NGOs to create materials based on the guidelines for world citizenship. The spirit of world citizenship has no room for stereotyping based on gender, religion, culture, race, class and nationality.

The fact that one is by origin a Ugandan or a Dane, a black man or a white man, is not important for world citizens. The diversity of colours and culture adds to the attraction and beauty of the scene, even as variety enhances unity. The unity we envision is more than an academic matter of geography, climatology or oceanography. It is based on the concept of the fundamental unity of humankind living as one world community, in which the problems of political and economic relations (and conflicts) and the equitable use of natural resources must be addressed from a global, culturally-sensitive perspective.

It is essential to address worldwide changes in values, behaviour and consumption patterns. The principle of the unity of humankind naturally implies the need for world peace and security. The World Commission on Environment and Development observes in its report that world peace and security are central to sustainable development. Therefore, any desire for lasting peace and democracy, must respect the creative power of unity in diversity in a united world.

Forough Olinga, Gender Advisor, MS Uganda. Email: feolinga@yahoo.com