ROMA - EQUAL PARTICIPANT  IN  THE INTERUCULTURAL DIALOGUE

The European Roma Information Office (ERIO) organised a conference to gather representatives of EU and other intergovernmental institutions, Member States and Roma civil society to discuss how dialogue could help creating a more tolerant and inclusive society.

As a social process, Intercultural Dialogue firstly encourages an identification of the boundaries defining each individual and then asks to relate across those boundaries and even to call them into question

In an increasingly globalised and interdependent world, where encountering cultural difference can scarcely be avoided, the ability to enter into a tolerant and respectful dialogue is a vital skill for nations, communities and individuals. In this context, this conference wanted to offer new approaches on how to live together peacefully in a multicultural world and to develop an innovative sense of community and belonging. Intercultural dialogue can also be a tool for the prevention and resolution of conflicts by enhancing the respect for human rights, democracy and the rule of law. The objectives of the conference were to:

- deliver knowledge on intercultural dialogue and its goals

- presenting the objectives and results of 2008 as European Year of Intercultural Dialogue

- sharing best practices areas of intercultural dialogue

- strengthening the dialogue between civil society and institutions in the field of intercultural dialogue

- strengthening ERIO's network activities in the field of intercultural dialogue

For further information contact: ivan.ivanov@erionet.org or office@erionet.org

11 December - Committee of the Regions. 2 rue Van Maerlandt, Brussels. Room VMA-1.

12 December - European Economic and Social Committee. 2 rue van Maerlandt, Brussels. Room VMA-3.

This event is supported by the European Community program for Employment and Social solidarity PROGRESS (2007- 2013). The sole responsibility lies with ERIO and the Commission is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information contained there in.

Click [HERE] to see the invitation and [HERE] to download the Program