The theme of the conference refers to minority protection in Europe and in the Council of Europe member states. The protection of minorities in these countries is considered to be at a crossroads. At the same time as minority protection is strengthened and more widespread around Europe, racism and nationalistic thoughts are growing. Further, some regions in Europe are suffering from conflicts which aggravate the protection of minorities in these regions even more.
During the day-long conference it is the wish to enlighten the participants on these problems and how they lead to minority rights being implemented differently in different parts of Europe, but also how to best overcome these struggles and ensure an as effective as possible protection of minorities under the existing circumstances. The monitoring organs impartiality and independency for the most effective protection of minorities in those circumstances, as well as the situation of national minorities will have special focus in the conference.
During the conference speakers from the Council of Europe, the Advisory Committee on the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities (ACFC) and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) will share their experiences of minority protection in Europe.
The main addresses are given by Ms. Astrid Thors, High Commissioner on National Minorities, OSCE, Mr. Francesco Palermo, President, Advisory Committee on the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities (ACFC), Council of Europe and Ms. Marja Ruotanen, Director of Human Dignity and Equality, Council of Europe.
The conference targets European, Finnish, Swedish and Ålandic researchers, politicians and officials. The public is also welcome, with subject to available space. The language for the conference is English.
The conference is planned and organized with support from the Advisory Committee on the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities and the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland.
Registration opens on the 5 March here (put link: http://goo.gl/forms/2pUxAz83DG) or via the ÅIPI website.
For further information: Conference coordinator Charlotte Winberg,
e-mail: charlotte@peace.ax, Tel: +358-4573445570
