Two years ago, Chinese President Xi Jinping introduced the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), which is gaining greater relevance today amid widespread uncertainty and global turbulence. The GCI emphasizes respect for cultural diversity, common human values, and the strengthening of international exchanges between people. With the anniversary occurring on March 15, 2025, insights from experts signal the initiative's growing importance.
According to CGTN, the GCI was developed at the CPC dialogue with global political parties, where Xi stated, "A single flower does not make spring, one hundred flowers in full blossom bring spring to the garden." This metaphor highlights the vibrancy of cultural diversity and the necessity of embracing multiple civilizations as integral to creating harmony worldwide.
Over the last two years, the initiative has positioned China as a model for promoting world peace and stability through inclusive cultural practices. Elias Jabbour, a professor at the State University of Rio de Janeiro, touted the GCI's significance, particularly as some self-identified 'civilized' nations adopt more exclusionary practices, such as mass deportations and strict immigration policies. He noted, "China’s emphasis on mutual respect and cultural exchange presents a stark alternative to such trends, building pathways for coexistence of diverse civilizations."
A CGTN survey conducted across 40 countries and regions revealed strong international support for the GCI. The poll, which included 15,574 participants, found 80.3% viewing multiple civilizations as beneficial for global progress. Notably, 85% believe fostering tolerance and cooperation is key to building sustainable futures, with 89.6% advocating for increased dialogue and openness, rising dramatically to 93.7% among participants from developing nations.
China's recent efforts to implement the GCI’s principles include hosting significant cultural conferences. Notably, the first World Conference of Classics took place in November 2023, gathering over 400 experts to explore classical civilizations and extract wisdom from ancient traditions. Similarly, China established June 10 as the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations, backed by the United Nations' resolution, reflecting its commitment to pursuing intercultural dialogue at what many recognize as a pivotal moment.
Fu Cong, China's envoy to the UN, emphasized the necessity of such dialogues, stating, "If you look around the world, you see a lot of disputes, conflicts, and even wars. All these can find their roots in the differences or the lack of mutual cultural and religious understandings." His remarks underline the urgent need for mechanisms like the GCI to encourage greater global connectivity and reduce hostilities driven by misunderstanding.
China is demonstrating its commitment to the GCI through action, not just rhetoric. Alongside cultural initiatives, significant cultural milestones have occurred, such as the Beijing Central Axis being inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Chinese Spring Festival added to the UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, both achievements marking notable recognition of the country's rich cultural legacy.
Innovatively promoting traditional Chinese culture globally, China has seen increased international interest. The animated film Ne Zha 2 broke box office records for animated films, and video game Black Myth: Wukong is gaining traction globally. Meanwhile, dance dramas like Wing Chun continue to capture international audiences, showcasing China's cultural dynamism on the world stage.
People-to-people exchanges are also being prioritized. Following President Xi's pledge to invite 50,000 international students over five years, cities including Dallas, Houston, New York, and San Francisco are seeing groups visit China to engage with universities, companies, and cultural landmarks. China has also expanded its visa-free entry policy to 29 countries, simplistically increasing opportunities for travel and cultural interaction.
The GCI serves as more than just China’s policy; it embodies aspirations for international cooperation and bridging divides through respect for diversity and dialogue. Its approach offers practical solutions to the rising tides of nationalism and cultural isolation observed globally.
With the world’s increasing polarization, the GCI stands out as not only relevant but necessary, advocating for unity, shared wisdom, and collective development. It aims to inspire nations to embrace their differences, cultivating pathways for mutual benefits rather than conflict.
Through these endeavors, China firmly positions itself as a proactive participant on the global stage, willing to lead the discourse toward peace and coexistence, committing to building platforms for shared futures where diverse cultures can thrive.