Forum Barcelona 2004

This year in Barcelona a well-known all over the world event by general name Forum 2004 will be held. The period of its realization is from the 9th of May till the 26th of September. On May 9, an inauguration of the Forum 2004 takes place, and it will be a significant date not only for Barcelona, but for the whole world. This bright and unforgettable spectacle will be seen by 3000 delegations from all over the world and more than 75 000 tourists and guests of Barcelona. In the program of the Forum 2004 three main tendencies will be discussed: variety of cultures, preservation of nature and conditions of peace. The Forum 2004 will be held in a special built cultural center on the sea coast. Copyright © Fórum Universal de las Culturas-Barcelona 2004, S.A. Reservados todos los derechos. Oficial Página Web www.barcelona2004.org

Three main themes define the Forum Barcelona 2004

Cultural Diversity     "The watches of the men and women of the world's civilizations are not all set to the same time. One of the wonders of our endangered planet is the range of their experiences, memories and desires. Any attempt to impose a single, unified policy upon this diversity is like a prelude to death." Carlos Fuentes, Mexican writer.	An understanding of other cultures is an essential precondition for any constructive dialogue between peoples. Such an understanding is gained through reflection not only on that which is common to all human beings but also on that which makes us different. As long as we consider diversity as an enriching element and part of our shared heritage rather than as an obstacle, we will be capable of reducing tensions and turning them around into positive forces.
Sustainable Development     "In a world where man exploits man, nature is also exploited. We are to blame for our failure to establish a rational, ordered and logical way of living. Nature has no capacity to defend itself against man, and both nature and humanity are now fighting for survival. Both may perish together and we are not even conscious of the risk." Yasar Kemal, Kurdish writer; Premi Internacional Catalunya 1996.	It is now more pressing than ever to find ways of growth that not only respect natural resources but also consider the need to administer them in an optimal manner. It is to the benefit of all and, particularly, of generations to come. Sustainability should also be seen as a concept whose importance goes beyond ecological concerns: it is one of the factors that will enable us to create the conditions required for coexistence, dialogue between peoples and peace.
Conditions for peace     "Peace, development and justice are all connected to each other. We cannot talk about economic development without talking about peace. How can we expect economic development in a battlefield?" Aung San Suu Kyi. Nobel Peace Prize 1991.	The creation of a peace culture must be based on respect for other cultures, on social and political justice, protection of human rights, and ways of living in harmony with the environment. These elements, among others, essential for establishing conditions more favorable to human progress and development. Because, after all, lasting peace implies more than just the absence of conflict.