Majorities for minorities
Empowering Participation in a Heterogeneous Society
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JEF Seminar, Biel/Bienne, Switzerland, 23–28 March 2008
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The Seminar
Today's peaceful and prosperous coexistence of European states and institutions is heavily based on the acceptance of high common standards regarding the principles of democracy and human rights. This reality involves the presence of a myriad of cultural, linguistic, ethnic, religious and other minorities irrespective of their historical origins (migration, settlement, etc.). The premises of democracy and human rights cannot be detached from the topic of minority rights protection. In what sense is the fulfillment of minorities' claims inherent in human rights?
What means are conceivable to satisfy the European minorities' needs in contemporary society? What institutional patterns favor the peaceful existence of a culturally diverse society in Europe with full participation of all actors in the political decision-making process? And how does it come that majorities develop sensitivity for the situation of minorities? Majorities for Minorities is an initiative of JEF-Europe, a supranational, politically pluralist youth organisation with about 25,000 members in over 35 European countries. The aim of JEF is to work for the creation of a European federation as a first step towards peace and a more free, just and democratic society. Majorities for Minorities is supported by the European Youth Foundation of the Council of Europe. Application procedure If you want to participate in this international experience, please send the attached application form to the following e-mail address:
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jef.sem.m4m(at)jef.eu
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Deadline for applications
Applications have to be submitted before
Thursday, 31 January 2008.
Selected applicants will be contacted by mid-February.
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Scholarships
A limited number of scholarships available will be available for this event. If your personal situation makes financial support necessary in order to participate, please mention the reasons in the enclosed form.
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Visa
Applicants requiring a visa for Switzerland are invited to fill in in the enclosed visa application form.
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Contact
JEF-Europe
European Secretariat
Waversesteenweg 214d
1050 Brussels (Belgium)
Phone +32 2 512 00 53
Fax +32 2 626 95 01
E-mail info@jef.eu
www.jef.eu
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Practical information
Location: Biel/Bienne, Switzerland
Arrival: Sunday, 23 March 2008, afternoon
Departure: Friday, 28 March 2008, afternoon
Registration fee: 100 EUR for JEF-members, 150 EUR for non-JEF members to be paid upon receipt of confirmation.
Package includes: Hostel accommodation, all meals, materials, and excursions as in the seminar programme.
Travel reimbursement: 70% of travel costs will be
reimbursed after the seminar.
(Maximum reimbursement: 160 EUR)
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