The process of preparing a White Paper on Intercultural dialogue which started in spring 2006, is soon to be finalised. Intercultural dialogue is a new approach to cultural diversity, considered more fruitful than earlier approaches such as assimilation or multiculturalism. It comprises improved communication between people of different ethnic, cultural or religious backgrounds. Its goal is equality between and respect for different worldviews by increasing their understanding of one another.
19/12/2007 ::
The proposed text has received feedback through three seminars this autumn, taking place in Moscow, Stockholm and Strasbourg. The finalization of the text is currently taking place within the rapporteur group on education, culture, sport, youth and environment, and a final version of the White Paper is expected to be adopted early in 2008.
The White Paper is subject to high expectations, as intercultural dialogue is an issue of great interest in a number of countries as well as international settings. Amongst other related activities is the EU year on intercultural dialogue in 2008. Within the Council of Europe, the White Paper is expected to be a long term document of reference.