Launch Of Expert Group On Multicultural Europe

Joschka Fischer, former German Foreign Minister, will chair a Group of 'Eminent Persons' including, among others, Javier Solana and Emma Bonino with the mandate to find answers to the current threats from intolerance and discrimination in Europe.

Launching the initiative in Brussels today, Thorbjørn Jagland explained that the new challenges to security and stability in Europe appeared not to be between but inside the states. In the press-conference, Joschka Fischer said that living together in a multicultural, multireligious society will be key to preserving and developing the European model.

The group will conclude its work with recommendations to the Council of Europe at a Ministerial conference to be held in Istanbul in May 2011. The initiative is part of the Turkish Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers (November 2010 - May 2011).

The Group In Full

News Article: The End Of Multi-Culturalism?

Interview: Irmela Mensah-Schramm