GLOBAL CENTRE FOR PLURALISM APPOINTS FIRST SECRETARY-GENERAL
Ambassador John McNee to lead the Centre’s start-up
OTTAWA, Canada – June 27, 2011 – The Global Centre for Pluralism, a new research and education centre dedicated to the study and practice of pluralism worldwide, has appointed Canadian diplomat John McNee as its first Secretary-General.
In making the decision, the Centre’s Board of Directors commended McNee as one of the outstanding ambassadors of his generation, with the right mix of experience, stature and humility to build a truly global institution.
A seasoned Canadian diplomat, McNee has served as Canadian ambassador to Syria, Lebanon, Belgium and Luxembourg and as the country’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations. He has also held senior executive positions in the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, including Assistant Deputy Minister for Africa and the Middle East.
“The Global Centre for Pluralism is an important and ambitious project,” said McNee. “The thesis that diversity is a source of strength rather than an automatic source of division is compelling. My own experience confirms the tremendous need for an institution of this kind. I feel privileged to help build it.”
The Global Centre for Pluralism is an initiative of His Highness the Aga Khan, Founder and Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, in partnership with the Government of Canada.
Taking inspiration from Canada’s experience with pluralism, the Centre will develop and share knowledge and know-how about the benefits and practices of pluralism with other diverse societies.
Based in Ottawa, the inaugural Secretary-General will build the Centre’s institutional and intellectual capacities as a global knowledge hub working with the Centre’s international Board of Directors chaired by the Aga Khan.
McNee commences his duties as Secretary-General on September 6. He will be available for inquiries from media and others after that date.
For more information about the Global Centre for Pluralism, please visit www.pluralism.ca
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