Who We Are

About the Centre

At the Global Centre for Pluralism, we believe that societies thrive when differences are valued.

Our mission is to influence perspectives, inform policies and inspire pathways to advance pluralism.

The Global Centre for Pluralism is an independent, charitable organization founded by His Highness the Aga Khan and the Government of Canada. The Centre works with policy leaders, educators and community builders around the world to amplify and implement the transformative power of pluralism.

Our Principles

We aim to embody pluralism in who we are and everything we do. We are creative and courageous, highly professional with a commitment to quality. We remain accountable by keeping our work grounded in learning and collaboration. We choose to own the discomfort and tensions inherent to our work. We focus on achieving transformational results.

    “What a wonderful, liberating thing it would be if more of us, more of the time, could see diversity not as a burden, but as a blessing; not as a threat, but as an opportunity.”

    His Highness the Aga Khan

    The Centre’s programs include:

    • Global Analysis: Developing research and tools to measure societies’ treatment of diversity and track trends to support the implementation of more inclusive policies and practices around the world
    • Educating for Pluralism: Supporting educators to advance pluralism within the classroom as well as throughout educational systems and institutions
    • Global Pluralism Award: Celebrating and supporting the work of worldwide champions working to build more peaceful societies that respect differences
    • Peace and Conflict: Applying a pluralism lens to support peace processes around the world

    WHAT IS PLURALISM?

    Diversity in society is a universal fact; how societies respond to diversity is a choice. Pluralism is a positive response to diversity. Pluralism involves taking decisions and actions, as individuals and societies, which are grounded in respect for diversity.

    We are living an historic moment of urgency for pluralism. Societies worldwide are being challenged to address issues of injustice, inequality and exclusion. When societies commit to becoming more just, peaceful and prosperous by respecting diversity and addressing systemic inequality, the impacts can be transformational. When the dignity of every individual is recognized, everyone feels they belong. We are all better off, for generations to come.

    Compromise is essential. Belonging is the goal.

    In diverse societies, people with different identities and viewpoints must find ways to live together. The work of pluralism is to find a balance between competing values. Institutional mechanisms help to choose between competing values, but pluralism is not created by institutions alone. The content of those choices is important.

    The goal of pluralism is belonging. Building inclusive societies requires both institutional responses (“hardware”) and behavioural change (“software”) to ensure that every person is recognized and feels they belong.

    Annual Reports & Corporate Plans

    Bilingual reports are submitted to the Government of Canada on a yearly basis outlining the Centre’s plans and priorities.