The Confrontation Between Cultural Diversity and Cultural Dominance in International Legal Instruments: An Analysis of the UN Development Agenda

Abstract

This research was conducted with the aim of examining the confrontation between the two approaches of cultural diversity and cultural dominance within international legal instruments, specifically analyzing the United Nations development agenda. In terms of objective, this is an applied study; regarding its nature and methodology, it is descriptive-analytical, and data collection was carried out through library research. Cultural diversity is an intrinsic characteristic of human society, and its preservation and protection—as a common heritage of humanity—constitute a moral obligation. Consequently, the global community has sought to safeguard cultural diversity, and UNESCO has undertaken measures to protect and support it. It appears that the contemporary world is witnessing processes and policies that threaten cultural diversity and the peaceful coexistence of different cultures. Furthermore, the victory of the Islamic Revolution—which liberated the world from the grip of the Eastern and Western superpowers and saw the Islamic Republic of Iran champion the slogan "Neither East nor West"—ushered in a new era of transformation globally and across West Asia, posing significant challenges to the system of domination. Consequently, the experience of contending with the Islamic Revolution over recent decades has led these powers to realize that cultural domination is the most effective method for countering it. Research findings indicate that UNESCO faces significant challenges—ranging from internal intellectual, financial, and structural issues to external factors such as globalization, cultural industries and markets, media activities, and the politics of major powers and their reactions to the organization's performance—all of which profoundly impact UNESCO's effectiveness in safeguarding and supporting cultural diversity; yet, these challenges can also be transformed into opportunities. Furthermore, research findings indicate that the strategy of cultural domination employs tactics such as undermining and dismantling the political system and religious beliefs, inciting chaos and social disorder, and imposing so-called "crippling" sanctions. By controlling educational systems and promoting a culture of fashion-consciousness, this strategy seeks to erode beliefs, thereby paving the way for political and economic hegemony. These methods, utilized by the system of domination, yield highly destructive consequences—including the weakening of religious faith, a rift between the public and the clergy, intergenerational conflict, the erosion of moral zeal (*gheirat*), and a rise in illicit relationships—ultimately leading to the disintegration of the family unit and society at large. Therefore, a fundamental strategy must be devised to prevent the cultural domination of the "hegemonic system." Key measures in this regard include promoting values ​​such as the culture of self-sacrifice and martyrdom, fostering a revolutionary spirit, encouraging the practice of "enjoining the good and forbidding the evil," producing and disseminating cultural products and films with value-based content, and increasing the active involvement of seminaries and universities in cultural affairs.