The Global Centre for Pluralism is an independent, charitable organization founded as a partnership by the Government of Canada and Prince Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV.

When our differences are respected and valued, our societies thrive.  Around the world, those that centre the respect, dignity and belonging of all people are more peaceful, prosperous and just. This requires deliberate actions on the part of all members of society – individuals, communities, institutions and governments.

The Centre works to influence perspectives, inform policies and inspire actions to advance pluralism. To do this, we work with policymakers, educators and community leaders around the world to amplify and implement the transformative power of pluralism, and to apply this in their work through a range of programs.

Our programs include:

• Global Analysis: Helping leaders understand the challenges and opportunities, we develop applied research and tools to measure societies’ treatment of diversity and track trends to support the implementation of more inclusive policies and practices around the world
• Educating for Pluralism: Recognising the importance of leadership in advancing pluralism, we support educators to advance pluralism within the classroom and throughout educational systems and institutions
• Global Pluralism Award: Through celebrating and supporting the work of pluralism champions globally we inspire actions towards pluralism and build networks of support to leaders in different contexts
• Peace and Conflict: Pluralism is most needed, and often hardest to apply, in situations of extreme conflict.  We support peace practitioners to apply a pluralism lens in their work in peace processes around the world

WHAT IS PLURALISM?

In diverse societies, making choices to engage positively with difference leads to stronger outcomes for all.  Each of our societies faces unique dilemmas of how to engage with difference.  The core goal of a pluralist society is one where all members of the society feel that they belong and are respected, and in turn respect one another.

Pluralism requires intentional efforts in our policies and practices to ensure that dignity and respect for all individuals are central to our systems, including governance, media, the private sector, education, and civil society.

This is an historically difficult time for pluralism, with polarization and division on the rise.  Societies worldwide are being challenged to address injustice and exclusion, and to balance competing perspectives and values.  Pluralist approaches can help to address these dilemmas in a way that supports belonging for all.