Ivett Bene
Knowledge and Expertise Management Coordinator, European Medicines
Agency, Hungary and the Netherlands  

“You should tell people “Do not worry, I know you.” instead of „Be afraid because I know you.” Inspired by this Hungarian proverb, I envision a future where knowledge management fosters global understanding, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This vision goes beyond simply knowing information, but appreciating the unique knowledge and life experience each of us has.

Imagine a world where conflicts, from playground squabbles to global wars, are replaced by collaboration. My vision draws hope from the remarkable reconciliation efforts of millions of people in Rwanda and Ireland, proving that even seemingly intractable conflicts can be resolved.

Ignorance breeds fear and violence. Systematic knowledge exchange can manage biases and build empathy. This collective intelligence, diverse and rich, captured and shared, can be channelled towards achieving a more peaceful and sustainable future for all.

Just as jugs of different colours hold the same water, our minds share a common humanity. Knowledge management transcends ethnicity, religion, culture, and background, allowing us to work together towards a common goal.

This is a call to action. Since Knowledge Management means information management elevated by collaboration, through the collection of data, informed by diverse perspectives, we can build a world where peace and progress are the cornerstones of our shared future.

Together, we can turn fear into understanding, and conflict into collaboration. This 100-year journey can start today with a conversation. Do you want to talk?

Keywords: peace, collaboration, progress