Davos Diaries: Cate Blanchett wants people to teach their children to be tolerant

DAVOS: Hollywood actress Cate Blanchett today said we all must try and teach our children to be compassionate, tolerant and to share, but the world is sending a completely different message.

Speaking at the World Economic Forum (WEF) at a time when the tolerance debate is raging across the world, including in India, Blanchett encouraged leaders and the private sector to act and reinvigorate their ethical compass, and called on companies to be more compassionate.

The Australian origin actress, who was honoured here last night along with Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan and legendary musician Elton John for their social initiatives, said during a session that there is a misconception that developed countries are shouldering the burden of refugees when so many are displaced or in developing countries.

"Even welcoming countries are having to close their borders to those in need. Refugees are aware of the risk but they have been left with no other options," she said.


Blanchett said she believes that art and film can help drive the conversation around the issue.

"The only way to find sustainable solutions is to open up your worldview and to listen to other people's opinions," she said, adding that if you have a platform or influence then you can choose what you want to stand up for.