Mafra, Portugal — The historic town of Mafra recently hosted the fourth edition of the Mafra Dialogues, a collaborative initiative led by the International Dialogue Centre - KAICIID, IPDAL (Instituto para a Promoção da América Latina e Caraíbas) and local partners. This gathering, which focused on "Strategic Dialogues and Peace Diplomacy," set the stage for the forthcoming KAICIID Global Dialogue Forum, emphasizing KAICIID's instrumental role in promoting peace through Transformative Dialogue.

In a time when communication is nearly instantaneous, we often overlook the critical role of dialogue in shaping relationships and fostering cooperation between people and nations. The importance of prioritizing diplomacy centered on peace and dialogue becomes even more pronounced as conflicts escalate globally.

According to the United Nations, the world is currently experiencing the highest number of violent conflicts since World War II. In 2023, one-quarter of humanity, or 2 billion people, reside in conflict-affected areas. This year's Mafra Dialogues marks the second participation of KAICIID, emphasizing the strides made since the previous edition and the ongoing challenges, highlighting the urgent need for continued efforts in this area.

During the Mafra Dialogues, a roster of esteemed speakers contributed their insights into complex global conflicts and the power of dialogue in conflict resolution. Amongst notable speakers included:

• Ambassador António de Almeida de Ribeiro, Deputy Secretary General of the International Dialogue Centre - KAICIID, delivered pivotal opening remarks on behalf of the Center’s Secretary General, and highlighted the urgency and necessity of dialogue in contemporary conflict resolution.
• Mr. Hugo Moreira Luís, representing the Municipality of Mafra, who has been instrumental played a key role in creating the conditions necessary for these international discussions.
• Mr. Paulo Neves, President of IPDAL, provided an overview of the event and emphasized the importance of exploring dialogical solutions to global conflicts.
• Apostolic Nuncio, Mons. Ivo Scapolo, on behalf of Pietro Parolin. The nuncio, on behalf of the Holy See’s Cardinal Secretary of State, reiterated the importance of such meetings in promoting dialogue and peace globally.
• Mrs. Ana Isabel Xavier, National Defense Secretary of State, Republic of Portugal discussed the critical need for policies to be grounded in multilateral dialogue and emphasized the importance of cooperation and bridge-building in Portuguese defense policy.
• Experts, religious leaders and policymakers from various sectors discussed pressing global issues, including the impacts of geopolitical tensions in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Building on the momentum from the Mafra Dialogues, the International Dialogue Centre – KAICIID is convening the KAICIID Global Dialogue Forum themed “Transformative Dialogue: Building Alliances for Peace in a Rapidly Changing World” on 14-16 May 2024 in Lisbon, building on its twelve years of creating dialogue platforms to address some of the most pressing global challenges. At the core of this Global Forum is the commitment to use transformative dialogue as a powerful mechanism to harness human dignity and foster global solidarity, particularly in the area of peace building, inclusive cities and climate change. This Global Forum is an exclusive gathering of select influential leaders from decision-making institutions, both secular and religious, to dialogue and strategize together to develop inclusive partnerships that emphasize the holistic and interconnected nature of some of the major challenges we face today.

Among prominent figures slated to speak at the Lisbon forum include:

• H.E. Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, President of the Republic of Portugal, contributing via a recorded message.
• H.A.H. Bartholomew I of Constantinople, Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, offering a spiritual and humanitarian perspective.
• H.Em. Salih bin Abdullah al-Humaid, Imam of the Grand Mosque of Mecca, discussing the role of religious leadership in peace processes.
• H.E. Mateo Renzi, former Prime Minister of the Republic of Italy, providing insights from his experience in European and international diplomacy.
• Dr. Heinz Fischer, former President of the Republic of Austria, among other global leaders contributing recorded messages.
• H.E. Graça Machel, Co-Founder and Deputy Chair of The Elders, known for her profound contributions to human rights and development.
• Dr. André Azoulay, Senior Advisor to H.M. Mohammed VI of Morocco, bringing a unique perspective on intercultural dialogue.
• Chief Rabbi Michael Schudrich, Chief Rabbi of Poland and MJLC Board Member, offering insights on community resilience and interfaith relations.
• H.E. Carlos Moedas, Mayor of the City of Lisbon, adding a local governance perspective to the dialogue on peacebuilding.

The upcoming forum in Lisbon is not only a continuation of the various global dialogue initiatives led by KAICIID but also a platform to expand the reach and impact of these discussions. It aims to generate a set of actionable proposals that will advocate for and strengthen the role of multilateralism and diplomatic interventions in conflict prevention and resolution.

Both the Mafra Dialogues and the KAICIID Global Dialogue Forum exemplify KAICIID's commitment to facilitating Transformative Dialogue as a cornerstone of sustainable peace and coexistence. As the world grapples with unprecedented conflicts and challenges, these forums serve as vital platforms for fostering understanding and cooperation across diverse cultural, religious, and political landscapes.

To learn more about the upcoming KAICIID Global Dialogue Forum: https://www.kaiciidglobalforum.org/