1 The White Paper on “Intercultural Dialogue” Christian International Organisations at the Council of Europe November 2009 Intercultural Dialogue The Council of Europe’s White Paper (47 countries, 800 million Europeans)

2 The White Paper on “Intercultural Dialogue” Christian International Organisations at the Council of Europe November 2009 Our common future dépends on our capacity to protect and develop : human rights democracy the rule of law and to encourage mutual understanding. Why ?

3 The White Paper on “Intercultural Dialogue” Christian International Organisations at the Council of Europe November 2009 This will include Dialogue, based on shared values and equal dignity, is a key issue for Europe’s future and that of the world. Intercultural : greater cultural diversity at all levels. An end to assimilation and multiculturalism Intercultural dialogue is a means of managing intercultural diversity, mediation and reconciliation.

4 The White Paper on “Intercultural Dialogue” Christian International Organisations at the Council of Europe November 2009 The objectifs of the White Paper To specify the extent to which intercultural dialogue can contribute to an esteem for diversity that underpins social cohesion. To provide a conceptual and normative framework. To offer an analytical and methodological tool for those who work in the field and for political decision-makers. This is an invitation and not a law.

5 The White Paper on “Intercultural Dialogue” Christian International Organisations at the Council of Europe November 2009 Methodology Widespread consultation among all who work in the field –INGOs –Religious Communities –Social Partners –Political parties – Work at the behest of the Council of Europe and the writing of a White Paper Approval for the White Paper in plenary Assembly at the Council of Europe

6 The White Paper on “Intercultural Dialogue” Christian International Organisations at the Council of Europe November 2009 Intercultural Dialogue Is an OPEN and RESPECTFUL exchange of views between people or groups from different ethnic cultural religious linguistic origins and traditions.

7 The White Paper on “Intercultural Dialogue” Christian International Organisations at the Council of Europe November 2009 Conditions for Intercultural Dialogue The Freedom and ability to express oneself The will and ability to listen A minimum level of acceptance of common values ◊ Human Rights ◊ Democracy ◊ The rule of law ◊ Equal dignity and mutual respect ◊ Freedom of thought, conscience and religion ◊ Equality between the sexes.

8 The White Paper on “Intercultural Dialogue” Christian International Organisations at the Council of Europe November 2009 Obstacles to intercultural dialogue Poor knowledge of languages Discrimination Poverty Racism Xenophobia Intolerance

9 The White Paper on “Intercultural Dialogue” Christian International Organisations at the Council of Europe November 2009 The Religious Dimension Christianity, Judaism, Islam. The Council of Europe calls for dialogue –Between public authorities and religious communities –Between religious communities and trends in philosophical thought –Between religious communities The teaching of religious facts and of facts that relate to conviction.

10 The White Paper on “Intercultural Dialogue” Christian International Organisations at the Council of Europe November 2009 Proactive Measures (1) 1. To relate democratic governance to cultural diversity. ◊ to value diversity ◊ to further human rights and fundamental liberties ◊ to guarantee equal opportunities 2. To underpin democratic citizenship and participation

11 The White Paper on “Intercultural Dialogue” Christian International Organisations at the Council of Europe November 2009 Proactive Measures (2) 3. To teach and develop intercultural competence ◊ Democratic citizenship, languages and history ◊ To prepare young people for their life as active citizens (primary, secondary, higher, non-formal, family) 4. To create spaces set aside for intercultural dialogue: urban planning, cultural activities...

12 The White Paper on “Intercultural Dialogue” Christian International Organisations at the Council of Europe November 2009 Procative Measures (3) 5. Provide an international dimension ◊ Manage migration, ◊ Understand the complexity of cultural identity ◊ Develop cooperation with partner institutions in other part of Europe and the world Promote the White Paper “Intercultural Dialogue”

13 The White Paper on “Intercultural Dialogue” Christian International Organisations at the Council of Europe November 2009 The responsibility of the principal actors Public Authorities: ◊ Impartial institutional and legal frameworks at local and national level ◊ Guarantee of the same rights and responsibilities for each individual regardless of their views, convictions or religion and to ensure that these will be respected in practice. ◊ Strict laws to forbid hate speech ◊ Encouragement of active participation and legislation

14 The White Paper on “Intercultural Dialogue” Christian International Organisations at the Council of Europe November 2009 The responsibility of the principal actors Teachers and educators Leaders of religious communities Leaders and organisers in sporting and cultural organisations …. The media All actors in civil society

15 The White Paper on “Intercultural Dialogue” Christian International Organisations at the Council of Europe November 2009 And next …. 1. How can I develop my knowledge and have a concrete role in intercultural dialogue ? 2. What examples are there of Interreligious Dialogue in my area and life ?