Cultural Studies and Europe "Culture of Peace"

Peace is a process which takes at least two forms: as "negative" peace, the absence of war, or as "positive" peace, the development of culture.

A "Culture of Peace" as defined by UNESCO is not only the absence of war. Far more, it is the dynamic impetus toward a productive common life. Some of the most important aspects in this context: meeting primary human needs, policies which enable a reconciliation of conflicting interests on the broadest possible basis, and democratic structures which allow participation in decision making at the regional, national and also the transnational level. An important feature in this connection is the mode of shaping cultural processes within the Arts. Methods of conceptual development (models for the future) and their realisation are central elements. The principle of "Our Creative Diversity" as a prerequisite for a culture of peace is highly relevant here. Fundamental conflicts are inevitable when individuality is not respected and granted acceptance, when opportunties are not given for diversity to express itself.

In UNESCO, humanity has an important organisation capable of shaping cultural processes worldwide. Its structures enable transnational as well as regional or national interests to find expression. Its further development and ample financial resources are as greatly to be desired as closer cooperation particularly with other organisations already engaged in creating a transnational civil society.