The response to the challenges of the 21^st century of societal disintegration is not to be found in inter-civilizational “dialogues” but in the operationalisation of the development of a universally shared culture in all societies based on common values and behavioural patterns providing human dignity, freedom from marginalisation and exclusion, humiliation, hatred and consequent intra-societal violence. Educational, learning and socialization processes have to be developed and implemented to provide our societies for these basic capacities for peace, security and sustainable inter-generational development and solidarity for our common future.

Due to immigration, transportation, and communications we are increasingly exposed to the great plurality of cultures, nationalities, religions, and political ideologies that make up our world, and even our local communities. It is important that we digest this plurality, and even affirm it, while at the same time avoiding the slide into a cultural and moral relativism that abandons the quest for truth, absolute values, justice, and peace.

A leader with the heart of a parent is someone who sacrifices unconditionally. This is the nature of a parent, wanting to give, and give, and give, and still trying to give more. A true leader also has a teacher’s heart but does more than just transmit knowledge. This leader tries to give truth that will awaken the conscience and teach what is right and what is wrong. Finally, a good leader is a true owner. Just like a parent, such a leader takes responsibility no matter who causes the problem. They want to solve problems, not to blame others.

Mindanao is often in the news as a place of tension and conflict, and as a place where religious differences between Muslims and Christians as well as ethnic differences contribute to the tensions. For this reason, UPF developed the Mindanao Peace Initiative, modeled on Middle East Peace Initiative and South Asia Peace Initiative. These peace initiatives are built on the core values of: interfaith cooperation, good governance, strong marriage and family, and service to others.

Violence can be defined as the deprivation of inalienable rights that define one's humanity. As a function of its impact on individuals and societies, violence can also be defined as inaction or silence. I would submit that violence is a counter value that must be addressed by bringing to bear the values we hold dear.

There have been cases of conflict involving Nigerians of differing regional, tribal, and religious backgrounds. While the majority of Nigerians are peace-loving people, there are those who stimulate violence, often to serve their own interests. Such persons and groups fan the flames of conflict, and often they appeal to narrow sectarian interests. This is so very unfortunate, for such perpetrators misuse the very ideals and principles that lie at the heart of religion. For this reason, many observers are inclined to conclude, wrongly I believe, that religion is the root of the problem. However, in reality it is the misuse of religion by corrupt leaders that is the real problem.