"The impact of migration on dialogue between different cultures": this is the title of the first theme discussion held in Brussels today by the EU as part of 2008 European Year of Intercultural Dialogue. Another six events will be held during the year involving experts, politicians and society, so as to "give an important contribution to the future strategy of the EU" in this sphere. "Europe has to face important challenges, rooted in intercultural relations explains Commissioner Jan Figel’ -. It is essential to take up such challenges, while making the most of the cultural and religious heritage of the continent" and, to do this, we must "overcome the barriers of ignorance through dialogue". After this first debate, others will be held once a month on: dialogue in art forms (2 April), inter-religious dialogue (14 May), multilingualism, dialogue on the workplace, in education, in the media. To prepare each meeting, the official website of the Year (www.dialogue2008.eu) will provide information on each subject and reports on the contents of the debates.
