Global Centre for Pluralism

10/11/2026

𝗣𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗶𝗻 𝗞𝗲𝗻𝘆𝗮: 𝗜𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵

How can we measure progress towards pluralism? How can we assess whether institutions are moving towards more inclusive decision-making? As Kenya navigates its path forward, here are some of the key issues we will be watching in the months and years ahead.

𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗽𝗼𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗺𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘇𝗲𝗿𝗼-𝘀𝘂𝗺, 𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗻𝗶𝗰-𝗯𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗽𝗼𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗰𝘀 𝘁𝗼𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗽𝗼𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗺𝗼𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗮𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗞𝗲𝗻𝘆𝗮’𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻? Such a shift could help realize the Constitution’s potential for greater inclusion and contribute to more inclusive politics across ethnic and national lines.

Can civic mobilization be recognized as an expression of belonging and participation? Kenyan-led mobilizations and protests demonstrate a willingness to engage with critical social, economic and governance issues. How can governing actors and institutions respond in ways that recognize the constructive potential of these movements while reducing the risk of violence?

Can progress in policy translate into greater inclusion in practice? Gaps between policy and implementation can have significant consequences for pluralism, particularly for groups whose legal status and recognition affect their ability to participate fully in society. Will recent progress in granting citizenship to stateless communities and strengthening protections under the Refugees Act (2021) lead to greater inclusion?

While significant challenges remain, Kenyans strong sense of shared identity, belonging and civic engagement provides reasons for hope. As the country looks towards the 2027 general election, these developments will be important indicators of progress towards a more inclusive and pluralistic society.

Access the full report here: https://monitor.pluralism.ca/country/kenya/

10/10/2026

The Global Pluralism Monitor country reports are tools for understanding how societies respond to diversity and how they can become more just, peaceful and inclusive.

The reports examine how institutions and cultural norms shape recognition and belonging in society. They identify inequalities and barriers to full participation, while highlighting good practices and pathways towards positive social change.

The 𝗚𝗹𝗼𝗯𝗮𝗹 𝗣𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗿: 𝗞𝗲𝗻𝘆𝗮 highlights how political competition and access to economic opportunities and resources can become closely tied to ethnic identity. Political groups often mobilize support along ethnic lines, contributing to a “winner-takes-all” dynamic in which political victories and losses can have significant economic consequences. This dynamic is linked to high levels of mistrust and challenges in fulfilling the Constitution’s promise of inclusion. https://monitor.pluralism.ca/country/kenya/

According to the report, 50% of Kenyans feel their ethnic group is sometimes or often treated unfairly by the government, while trust in institutions remains low. Despite efforts at reform, political appointments following electoral victories can continue to favour ethnic-based coalitions.

At the same time, the report reveals another important dimension of pluralism in Kenya: a strong sense of belonging alongside low levels of institutional trust. According to its findings, 93% of respondents identify more strongly with Kenya than with their ethnic group, while 81% feel accepted for who they are by other Kenyans.

This sense of belonging is also reflected in civic engagement. Kenya has seen more than 1,000 protests since 2021, with demonstrations drawing attention to pressing social, economic and governance issues. The youth protests contributed to political changes, while advocacy by women’s movements has helped draw attention to gender-based violence. At the same time, violence associated with protests remains a significant concern.

A strong sense of shared Kenyan identity and belonging can encourage people to advocate for change and build public support for institutional reform. This offers an important source of hope as Kenya looks towards the 2027 general election.

10/09/2026

When we were in Nairobi this September, we also held discussions about the Global Pluralism Monitor: Kenya.

Developed through a rigorous research and analysis process and co-created with Kenyan researchers and practitioners, the report provides insights that can inform practical, context-specific strategies for strengthening pluralism in Kenya.

The report examines the experiences of several groups within Kenya’s diverse society, including ethnic and religious minorities, Indigenous peoples, and migrants, refugees and stateless people.

The Global Pluralism Monitor country reports offer insights into how societies respond to diversity and highlight opportunities for building more just, peaceful and inclusive future.

We discussed the report and its findings with Kenyan parliamentarians and civil society leaders and heard their perspectives on pluralism in the country, including in the context of Kenya’s 2027 general election.

Find the full report here: https://monitor.pluralism.ca/publication/kenya-monitor-report/

We hope the Kenya report will serve as a conversation starter, encouraging continued dialogue on how pluralism can be strengthened.

In the following video, our colleagues Andrea González and Carolyn McKee share their reflections on the conversations they had in Nairobi and how the Global Pluralism Monitor: Kenya report can inform action for pluralism.

10/06/2026

𝗪𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝘄𝗼 𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗰𝘂𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝘂𝗱𝗮𝗻:

🔸 Senior Program Officer: A 12-month contract with the possibility of extension

🔸 Senior Advisor: A 15 to 18-month consultancy beginning this December

If you are passionate about contributing your knowledge, skills, and expertise to support pathways to peace in Sudan, we encourage you to apply.

📅 𝗖𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲: 𝗢𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟵

Apply today or share these opportunities with someone in your network who may be a great fit.

Learn more about these opportunities here: https://pluralism.ca/careers/

10/02/2026

On Wednesday, September 30, we had the privilege of listening to two incredible women: Rose LeMay, Indigenous author, advocate and 2021 Global Pluralism Award recipient, and Tanya Talaga, award-winning Anishinaabe journalist and author.

Their conversation touched on some difficult but essential questions: What does reconciliation truly mean in practice? How do we confront ongoing denialism? And what would it take to build a future in which Indigenous children can thrive with the same opportunities as other children in Canada?

Tanya spoke about the realities facing Indigenous children today, including their disproportionate representation in foster care. She reminded us that the first five Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada focus on child welfare, reflecting survivors’ determination that the harms inflicted through the residential school system must never be repeated.

When asked about the most significant positive change for Indigenous peoples, Tanya pointed to education: changing curricula and teaching history as it happened. She also called on all of us to stand up against residential school denialism and to envision a future that is inclusive and bright for all children in Canada.

Rose emphasized the need for significant systemic change, reminding us that “the more you know about history, the more urgent reconciliation becomes.”

She challenged us to turn that understanding into action: learn about the people we vote for, understand their policies and plans concerning Indigenous peoples, vote, and learn how to intervene when we witness racism against Indigenous people.

Rose also shared a message of hope. Over the past decade, she has seen Indigenous people increasingly enter politics, medicine, engineering and other professions, enhancing their lives and shifting societal expectations.

Perhaps most importantly, she invited us to imagine what reconciliation could ultimately look like: a Canada where Indigenous children grow up with equal opportunities and where future generations inherit a country transformed by the work we choose to do today.

That is the vision. But getting there requires more than acknowledgement. It requires learning, speaking up, participating and acting.

We are grateful to Rose and Tanya for their honesty, wisdom and hope, and to The Honest Talk for hosting and facilitating this important conversation.

09/30/2026

On the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we are called not only to reflect, but also to learn and carry the truth of residential schools and take meaningful action.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) documented the history and lasting impacts of residential schools and created space for Survivors to share their truths. Its work culminated in 2015 with 94 Calls to Action, providing a framework to redress the legacy of residential schools and advance reconciliation in Canada. The Calls address governments, institutions, organizations and individuals across areas including education, health, justice, media, business, public service, and newcomers to Canada.https://ehprnh2mwo3.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Calls_to_Action_English2.pdf

Reconciliation is indeed broader than a single day of reflection.

It asks each of us to consider the role we can play in building relationships rooted in understanding, respect and meaningful inclusion. The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation's 6 Actions of ReconciliACTION offer a place to begin: Learn, Understand, Explore, Recognize, Take Action and Teach Others. https://nctr.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/6-Actions-of-ReconciliACTION.jpg

Today, we all must take a step forward. Read the Calls to Action that especially pertain your sector. Learn more about the history and ongoing legacy of residential schools. Listen to and believe Indigenous voices. Choose an action we can carry forward beyond today.

Reconciliation is not only something to reflect on. It is something we each have a role in advancing.

Explore the 6 Actions of ReconciliACTION and create your ReconciliACTION Plan here: https://nctr.ca/education/reconciliaction-plans/

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09/26/2026

As we approach the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (NDTR) on Sept 30, we're sharing a few resources for reflection, learning, and action in support of reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples in Canada.

We encourage all to explore these resources, share them with their networks and attend in-person events in support and solidarity with local Indigenous communities.

𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠

• Introduction to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: https://nctr.ca/about/truth-and-reconciliation-commission-of-canada/

• Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action: https://publications.gc.ca/site/eng/9.801236/publication.html

• Residential School History (National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation): https://nctr.ca/education/residential-school-history/

• Indigenous Peoples in Toronto: An Introduction for Newcomers:https://www.toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/9869-IG-TNO-Online-Compressed.pdf

𝐋𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠

• Auntie Up! – A Celebration of Indigenous Women: https://makwacreative.ca/podcasts/auntie-up

• Women, Truth & Reconciliation (hosted by The Honest Talk) with Rose LeMay and Tanya Talaga: https://nac-cna.ca/en/event/41478

𝐍𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬

• A Collection of Life Stories of Survivors of the Quebec Indian Residential Schools: https://cssspnql.com/en/produit/collection-of-life-stories-of-the-survivors-of-the-quebec-indian-residential-schools/

• The Marrow Thieves, a novel by Cherie Dimaline: https://ottawa.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S26C1033268 (Check out your public library for access to these and other stories by Indigenous voices.)

09/23/2026

On Monday, our Senior Manager of Awards and Leaders’ Network, Juliette Schmidt, joined Laureates Rula Hardal and May Pundak, Co-Executive Directors of .global, for an intimate and thoughtful conversation on practicing pluralism in times of deep polarization.

As anticipated, the session was warm, engaging, and highly participatory. Attendees took part in a rich Q&A exploring how to engage across differences when divisions are growing and conversations feel increasingly difficult. The discussion created space for vulnerability, honesty, and reflection.

Participants shared how they planned to apply the insights from the conversation in their own lives and work. Reflections ranged from having more constructive conversations about Israel-Palestine with family members to addressing challenges related to pluralism within their respective fields, including women’s rights and peacebuilding.

This event was hosted by The Sidebar as a side conversation held alongside the UN General Assembly 2026 ( ).

09/20/2026

We work with an amazing cohort of leaders around the world who embody the values of pluralism. Prof. Puja Kapai, a 2021 Global Pluralism Award Laureate, is one of them.

Puja is a Professor in the Faculty of Law at the University of Hong Kong, where her research and advocacy have helped lawmakers, government departments, and civil society organizations develop laws and policies through an intersectional lens.

Her work has strengthened equal protection and inclusion across a wide range of areas affecting marginalized communities. Learn more about Puja's work and her Global Pluralism Award recognition here: https://award.pluralism.ca/laureate/puja-kapai/

In 2023, Puja established the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice and Belonging (DEIJB) Laboratory at the University of Hong Kong. The Lab advances pluralism through youth leadership development, community-driven storytelling, research on systemic inequities, and the co-design of solutions with key stakeholders to promote equity, belonging, and inclusion. https://deijblab.hku.hk/initiatives-communities-of-practice-solemn/

Through Echoes of Home, an anthology of intergenerational stories exploring identity, resilience, and belonging, Puja and her team continue to create spaces for dialogue, understanding, and inclusion.

Puja recently spoke with RTHK Radio 3's Brunch program about Echoes of Home and building communities where everyone feels they belong: https://www.rthk.hk/radio/radio3/programme/brunch/episode/1116436

09/18/2026

Final reminder: If you're in New York next week attending the UNGA, be sure to join Global Centre for Pluralism and A Land for All (ALFA) for a conversation on pluralism.

We will discuss how can be practiced even when tensions are high and political polarization is increasing.

This conversation is especially relevant for those working in peacebuilding, democracy, development, human rights, social cohesion, and related fields.

Register via this link:

It is relatively easy to embrace diversity, belonging, and inclusion as principles. The harder question is what happens when differences become difficult: when…