"Cross the divide", whatever that divide seems to be, is the first step in learning how to manage and appreciate diversity. It is a quality that new generations may find indispensable. Have we, the older generation, passed on the fear of diversity? If that is so, it is equally important that the youth of our societies be aware of our mistake and find the courage to go a step farther, to learn what we have not, to see what we did not see, and to cross the divide where we failed to do so. The young generation aspires to do a better job than we have done, to build a more just society than we have. No "lesson" from the past can dampen the dreams and aspirations, the vision and expectations, of the generation that is taking over. For most of us, the fact that something was not done before does not mean it cannot ever be done. This, if anything, is an incentive to strive for more.

This white book includes a collection of documents related to dialogue among civilizations, such as resolutions, recommendations, appeals, and relevant procedural programmes, in addition to the draft international document on dialogue among civilizations, the OIC project on dialogue, and ISESCO's view of dialogue among civilizations, which describes its deep meanings, extensive concepts and humanitarian goals.
Designed as the annals of dialogue among civilizations, this book embodies the Muslim world's contribution to commemorating the International Year of Dialogue among Civilizations.