Many minority populations perceive that their differentiating attribute — whether it is their race, ethnicity, religion, gender or any other differentiator — prevent them from fully participating in society. In the wake of the global economic crisis, it is more important than ever for governments to harness the skills and talents of their entire population and it is particularly critical for countries’ ongoing innovation, competitiveness, and their ability to overcome economic shocks.
The event featured research findings from the Gallup World Poll that show the relationship between ethno-religious diversity and wellbeing around the world. Speakers and panelists included:
- Carlos Westendorp, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Spain and Secretary General of the Club de Madrid.
- Magali Rheault, Gallup Senior Consultant and Club de Madrid Society Expert Member
- Sir John Kaputin, Former Secretary General of the African, Caribbean, and Pacific Group of States, Former Foreign Minister of Papua New Guinea and Member of the Network of Political Leaders United to Support Shared Societies (NetPLUSS).
- Beatriz Merino, National Ombudsman of Peru and Member of the Network of Political Leaders United to Support Shared Societies (NetPLUSS).
- Kinga Göncz, Member of the European Parliament (S&D, Hungary), Vice-Chair of the Civil Liberties, Justice, and Home Affairs Committee and Member of the Network of Political Leaders United to Support Shared Societies (NetPLUSS).
- H. Muhammad Jusuf Kalla, Former Vice President of Indonesia and Member of the Network of Political Leaders United to Support Shared Societies (NetPLUSS).