The historic city of Qufu, located in China’s Shandong province, was the venue chosen to host the 10th edition of the Nishan World Forum of Civilisations, a large-scale event that brought together thinkers, leaders and experts from all over the world. This particular forum aimed to focus discussions on the cultural heritage and development of world civilisation. One of the keynote speakers at this year’s event was Dr Debora Kayembe, Honorary Rector of the University of Edinburgh and human rights activist, who made a lasting impression with her speech on the theme of communication and the exchange of family culture.
In her speech, Dr Kayembe highlighted the crucial role of women in the family, describing them as the pillars and main initiators of external aid. « Women play a central role in facilitating change within the family, » she said. This perspective highlights the importance of women’s contribution not only in the family context but also in overall societal development.
Dr Debora Kayembe went on to stress the importance of gender equality. « Equality between men and women is fundamental to the realisation of human rights, » she stressed. She stressed that this aspiration benefits society as a whole, including girls and women. The universal benefits of gender equality are well documented and recognised by several international frameworks, which have affirmed its central role in human rights and sustainable development.
Following this logic, Dr. Debora Kayembe invited each participant to work for a more egalitarian world. « Gender equality is not only a fundamental human right, it is also essential for the achievement of sustainable and harmonious development, » she declared, calling for a collective mobilisation to create a world where men and women enjoy the same opportunities and rights.
Identity, the foundation of our being
Dr Debora Kayembe also addressed the fundamental issue of identity, explaining that identity is a set of qualities, beliefs, personality traits, appearance and/or expressions that characterise a person or a society. « Identity emerges during childhood, » she said, « when children begin to understand their idea of themselves, and remains a constant aspect throughout the different stages of life. » According to Dr. Debora Kayembe, every human being needs to feel rooted in his or her culture and society in order to develop fully.
« Who am I? That’s one of the hardest questions to answer, » said Dr Kayembe. She pointed out that if you know who you are and are proud of it, you are firmly rooted, making it impossible for anyone to uproot you or brainwash you with dark, fundamentalist ideas. The best way to answer this crucial question, she said, is to have an in-depth knowledge of one’s tangible and intangible heritage.
Dr Kayembe explained that tangible heritage is a physical representation and undeniable proof of a civilization’s history and past. « Intangible heritage is just as important in building your personality and identity, » she added. Being aware of your heritage allows you to feel more at ease with yourself, especially when you come from a country facing difficult challenges such as war and poverty.
Diversity and compassion : a conclusion that calls for living together and unity despite our differences
In concluding her speech, Dr. Debora Kayembe made a vibrant appeal to the assembly, inviting everyone to appreciate diversity and to become more compassionate and empathetic people, so that our world becomes a better place in which to live. Dr. Debora Kayembe’s contribution to the forum not only enriched the debates, but also offered valuable insights into the importance of identity, gender equality and harmony for the development of global civilization. Her call to action inspired participants to work towards a more equitable future, rooted in respect for each other’s traditions and cultures.
