In the face of enormous environmental, economic and social challenges, how can we address the divisions that get in the way of effective responses?

For my wife and myself, one response has been a five-month ‘Voyage of dialogue and discovery’ to 14 nations, accompanied by a multinational team of mostly young Initiatives of Change activists. We did not go to preach solutions, but with a hope for honest dialogue and collaboration.

Our journey began in war-scarred Sri Lanka. Then to Indonesia, where the genuine faith of our young hosts showed us Islam with heart, with compassion.

In Kenya and South Africa, we encountered a hunger for reconciliation between tribes, races, and within families. In Norway we met young families building bridges with the Muslim minority.

In Palestine I was not prepared for the devastating impact of innumerable Israeli settlements, walls, and settler-only roads. Yet nor did I anticipate the quality and dedication to non-violence, peace and justice we witnessed in many Palestinians and Israelis.

In Romania the depth of faith, especially among young people, was striking. In Ukraine, where cultures and political influences clash, our Voyage sparked a national Week of Trust which the media picked up, placing trust on the national agenda. In Japan we found a nation at a crossroads, caught between greater involvement in Asia and consciousness of its past mistakes. The Voyage continued through USA, and countries of Latin America.

In every country, simple messages made the strongest impact:

• when I point an accusing finger at my neighbor, there are three more pointing back at me
• the most important connection is between each individual and the ‘inner voice’ of conscience.

Everywhere, we invited people to consider a ‘coalition of conscience’ to confront the real enemies, which are hate, fear and greed. Obedience to that inner voice of truth is not only available but the irreplaceable response to the crises we face.

Rajmohan Gandhi

President, Initiatives of Change International

Professor Rajmohan Gandhi has been president of IofC International since 1 January 2009. A journalist, academic and social reformer, Gandhi received international acclaim for his new biography of his grandfather, Mohandas K Gandhi, launched in 2007-2008.