Johan Galtung, aware of the growing interconnection between cultures in today’s world, placed great importance on intercultural dialogue as a fundamental tool for peacebuilding. Intercultural dialogue is understood as a process of communication and interaction between people or groups with different cultural backgrounds, with the aim of mutual understanding, overcoming prejudices, and building relationships based on respect and cooperation.
Galtung argues that cultural differences, far from being an inevitable source of conflict, can be a source of richness and mutual learning. However, for this to be possible, it is necessary to establish a genuine and effective dialogue that overcomes communication barriers and cultural stereotypes.

Intercultural dialogue, according to Galtung, is based on a series of principles:

Mutual respect: recognizing the equal value and dignity of all cultures. Avoiding ethnocentrism and the imposition of one culture over another.
Empathy: trying to understand the perspective of the other by putting oneself in their shoes and recognizing their feelings and experiences.
Active listening: paying attention to what the other person says, both to their words and non-verbal language. Attempting to understand the full message, including the cultural context.
Open-mindedness: being willing to learn from the other and to modify one’s own ideas and beliefs. Avoiding prejudices and stereotypes.
Equal participation: ensuring that all parties have the opportunity to express their opinions and be heard.
Search for common ground: identifying areas of agreement or shared interests that can serve as a basis for cooperation.
Acknowledgment of differences: accepting that cultural differences exist and that not everyone needs to think the same way. Seeking solutions that respect cultural diversity.

Galtung distinguishes different types of intercultural dialogue, according to its objective and level of depth:

• Instrumental dialogue: focuses on solving specific problems and reaching specific agreements.
• Expressive dialogue: focuses on sharing experiences, feelings, and perspectives, with the goal of generating mutual understanding and building trust.
• Transformative dialogue: focuses on transforming relationships between parties, addressing the root causes of conflict, and seeking to build lasting peace.

Intercultural dialogue is not an easy process and is not without difficulties. Misunderstandings may arise due to linguistic differences, different communication styles, or cultural prejudices. However, Galtung argues that the benefits of intercultural dialogue far outweigh the challenges.

Intercultural dialogue can contribute to:

• Reducing prejudices and stereotypes: by getting to know people from other cultures, we can overcome generalizations and build a more realistic and complex view of cultural diversity.
• Fostering mutual understanding: dialogue allows us to understand the perspectives, values, and needs of the other, generating empathy and respect.
• Building trust: by interacting openly and honestly, trust-based relationships can be established that facilitate cooperation.
• Resolving conflicts peacefully: dialogue provides a space to address differences and find mutually beneficial solutions.
• Building a culture of peace: intercultural dialogue helps create a more inclusive, tolerant, and peaceful society.

In summary, intercultural dialogue according to Galtung is an essential tool for building peace in a diverse and interconnected world. By promoting mutual respect, empathy, and effective communication between cultures, we can build bridges of understanding and create a more peaceful and just future for all.

Johan Galtung (born in 1930) is a Norwegian sociologist and mathematician recognized as one of the founders of peace and conflict studies. His work has been essential in understanding the dynamics of violence, peace, and development in the international sphere.