The opening ceremony of the "Youth in Intercultural Dialogue for Peace – Baku Forum" was held at Baku State University (BSU)

On April 30, 2026, the opening ceremony of the "Youth in Intercultural Dialogue for Peace – Baku Forum" was held at Baku State University (BSU).

The event began with the playing of the National Anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan and a minute of silence honoring the memory of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, as well as the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the Motherland.

Delivering the opening speech, Shahin Panahov, BSU Vice-Rector for International Relations, highlighted the role of intercultural dialogue within the higher education environment. He emphasized that the concept of "Quality Education" under the UN Sustainable Development Goals extends beyond mere academic knowledge. He noted that the multicultural academic environment cultivated at BSU strengthens a culture of tolerance, mutual respect, and dialogue among students. Touching upon the historical roots of Azerbaijani multiculturalism, he pointed out that these values are actively practiced in the higher education sector today.

Speaking next, Rizvan Nabiyev, Member of the National Assembly (Milli Majlis) of the Republic of Azerbaijan and member of both the Committee on Defense, Security and Counter-Corruption and the Committee on International Relations and Interparliamentary Ties, addressed the critical importance of intercultural dialogue and peace initiatives amid rising global uncertainty, conflicts, and geopolitical tensions. The MP recalled the awarding of the "Guernica Award for Peace and Reconciliation" to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, noting this as a testament to the country's consistent efforts in peace diplomacy, its policy of multiculturalism, and international cooperation.

Concluding the speeches, Rufiz Gulizada, Deputy Chairman of the "Bir Könüllü" Public Union, described the forum as a vital platform that brings together local and international students as well as youth sector activists, expressing his gratitude to the partner organizations.

The forum is organized by the "Bir Könüllü" Public Union, with the support of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and in partnership with Baku State University, the "BSU Volunteers" organization, and the Global Union for Intercultural Dialogue (GUIDE).