What Confucianism means to today's world

Against the backdrop of growing global uncertainty and increasing calls for common values, the 2025 Nishan Forum on World Civilizations is set to convene once again at the foot of Nishan Mountain in east China's Shandong Province – the birthplace of Confucius.

The forum, scheduled for July 9 to 10, is a prominent platform for intercultural dialogue, underscoring the enduring relevance of Confucianism in a world grappling with ethical dilemmas, social fragmentation, and cultural clashes.

The Nishan Forum aims to foster mutual learning among civilizations and promote shared moral values through open dialogue. At its core lies a renewed interest in Confucianism, a philosophy that has shaped Chinese thought for over two millennia and continues to offer insight into how societies might pursue harmony, justice and ethical governance.

Rooted in principles such as ren (benevolence), li (ritual propriety), yi (righteousness), and zhongyong (the doctrine of the mean), Confucianism emphasizes the cultivation of moral character, the importance of family and social responsibility, and the pursuit of social harmony through ethical leadership. These values are seen not only as pillars of Chinese culture but as potential contributions to a universal moral dialogue.

"Many of today's societal problems stem from a global moral crisis," said Tan Eng Chaw, president of the Confucian Society in Singapore. "To address this, humanity must build a new framework of universal ethics – and Confucianism offers invaluable moral resources that can help guide this transformation."

From ethical leadership to social cohesion, Confucian ideas resonate with global concerns. In particular, Confucianism's call for self-discipline, mutual respect, and balanced coexistence offers timely answers to questions about governance, inequality and environmental responsibility.

Professor Gao Ruiquan of East China Normal University echoed this sentiment, noting that Confucianism has always embraced change. "The pragmatic tradition of Confucianism means it evolves with the times, constantly responding to new challenges. Its revival is not only vital to the renewal of Chinese civilization but also to the vision of a shared human future," he said.

As the world navigates a period of profound transformation, experts believe the resurgence of Confucianism may offer not a return to the past, but a way forward. In a time when many are questioning the sustainability of existing political and economic models, Confucianism provides a moral compass rooted in human dignity, shared responsibility and ethical progress.

"Only when we understand and respect each other's values, can we truly build a world that is not only interconnected, but also morally sustainable," Professor Gao pointed out.

China is not only revitalizing Confucianism domestically but also integrating its values into global initiatives. Central to this effort is the concept of building a community with a shared future for mankind – a vision rooted in Confucian ideals of harmony, inclusiveness and mutual benefit.

This vision has been echoed in several major initiatives proposed by China, including the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative. Each embodies aspects of Confucian thinking – emphasizing dialogue over confrontation, cooperation over division and ethics over dominance.

These frameworks reflect China's broader effort to offer alternative approaches to global governance, which are grounded in moral reciprocity, cultural respect and peaceful development.

As participants at the Nishan Forum will continue to exchange ideas across cultures and civilizations, one thing is clear: Confucianism is no longer just a pillar of Chinese heritage. It is increasingly seen as a global asset, capable of contributing to a more just, harmonious and ethical world order.