The 2nd International Youth Forum for Multiculturalism and Peace, co-organized by the Baku International Multiculturalism Center (BIMC) and ICESCO, continues in the city of Khankendi.
On August 24, participants of the forum themed “Youth as ambassadors of peacebuilding in a multicultural environment,” arrived in Khankendi to familiarize themselves with the ongoing redevelopment and construction efforts.
Irina Kunina, Head of the Department at BIMC, delivered a lecture titled "Features of the Azerbaijani Multiculturalism Model." She emphasized that Azerbaijan is one of the unique destinations where different civilizations converge, a land where an environment of national and cultural diversity has been forged for centuries, and where representatives of different peoples and confessions live in peace, tranquility, mutual understanding, and dialogue.
Kunina underlined that multiculturalism and tolerance are not just historical concepts in Azerbaijan but are a lifestyle for all its citizens. The lecture was highly praised, prompting further discussion among the participants.
The Forum brings together about 70 participants from more than 50 countries. Events will take place in Baku, Khankendi, and Shusha, featuring panel discussions, interactive sessions, training programs, and cultural visits to Azerbaijan’s liberated historical lands.
The Forum serves as a platform for young people of different nations, religions, and cultures to promote multicultural values, strengthen inter-religious understanding, and encourage tolerance. Its goal is to foster respect for diversity as a source of peace and solidarity, while enabling participants to exchange experiences, propose joint projects, and build partnerships.
The first International Multiculturalism Youth Forum was held in 2019 during the 9th International Multiculturalism Summer School under the theme “Baku Intercultural Youth Forum: Interfaith in action.”
