The EYID 2008 has two goals:
promoting inter-cultural dialogue to enable European citizens to deal with a multicultural and more open environment,
support active European citizenship by promoting common values and respect for cultural diversity.
EYID 2008 includes 7 multi-European projects, 27 national projects, and 6 Brussels debates on culture.
The emphasis on inter-cultural dialogue is a welcome follow-up to the 2007 year of equal opportunity. However, there is a key gap in the programme on inter-cultural dialogue: addressing the current situation for Europe’s most disadvantaged group - Roma. In many European countries, Roma communities experience very poor living conditions, socio-economic status and limited access to education, health and welfare services. Inter-cultural dialogue needs to address the discrimination faced by Roma and the lack of integration into mainstream society.
For further information
European year of equal opportunities
European year of inter-cultural dialogue
EPHA related articles
Invoking an EU-strategy for Roma communities across Europe
Improving Romani health status - the role of health mediator programs
Guide launching for the social integration of Roma in Europe
