Convivence Among Peoples

Abstract

In the face of increasing situations of destruction, violence, hunger, forced migration and armed conflicts, this paper – drawing on previous research into affective, organisational and social convivence and recalling the appeals of the United Nations and a number of religious authorities on the need for the planet's population to live together in peace, harmony and justice – proposes a framework for interpreting convivence on a planetary scale in order to enable a multidimensional reading of situations and behaviours, thereby allowing the inhabitants of the planet to make their own representation of reality felt. The construct of convivence among peoples is defined and articulated along seven dimensions: culture of legality and respect for signed agreements; respect and tolerance of diversity; common goals and collective efficacy; solidarity and support; equity in access to and management of resources; power and international relations; trust and hope. The paper concludes with a call to researchers to form a network to promote studies on new forms of convivence and planetary development.