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Source: http://jcpa.org/article/conflict-resolution-through-cultural-diplomacy-in-the-middle-east/
Conflict Resolution through Cultural Diplomacy in the Middle East
(Institute for Contemporary Affairs-Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs) Alan Baker - Peace cannot emanate only from documents signed by leaders alone, but from mutual good faith and credibility among the peoples for whom the agreements are signed. UN resolutions adopted with a view to elaborating a culture of peace need to be given greater attention. In order for cultural diplomacy to succeed, practically, it needs to include, first and foremost, an acknowledgment by political and religious leaders that peace, justice, and mutual respect are basic values in all religions, as well as central assumptions in international law and diplomacy. There must also be an end to negative public propaganda. Media and social networking should be used to advocate mutual respect, rather than the opposite. Furthermore, there should be acknowledgment of the rights of all indigenous peoples to their indigenous lands, resources, and properties. On May 9, 2013, Amb. Alan Baker, an experienced Israeli peace negotiator, addressed a conference in Istanbul, Turkey, on "Conflict Mediation through Cultural Diplomacy in Current Areas of Conflict."