ROUND TABLES

Theme 1 - Integrating Cultural Diversity

Synthesis

Ministers discussed the meaning of cultural diversity during this session. They focus specifically on the relationship between cultural diversity, inclusiveness and tolerance.

The first notion that emerged from this meetingwas the importance and omnipresence of cultural diversity in our societies. Ministers reflected on the role of cultural diversity at the local, national and international level and discussed ways to protect and promote it. Norbert Riedl of Austria noted that cultural diversity touches every aspect of our lives. Ellen Horn of Norway reflected on the importance of the national managing of cultural diversity in multicultural societies. Ministers also spoke of the impact of cultural diversity internationally and linked its management to peace and international cooperation. Amadou Tidiane Wone of Senegal defined cultural diversity as the respect of differences and added that culture should have a more important place in world peacemaking. Francisco Weffort of Brazil emphasized the need to cooperate internationally on cultural diversity issues. He added that cultural diversity should be a social policy priority for all countries. Several Ministers identified inclusiveness and tolerance as the most important aspects of cultural
diversity. They agreed that these two notions should be integrated in cultural diversity management strategies. Discussions ensued on ways to emphasize these aspects of cultural diversity in policies. Jaime Nualart of Mexico suggested that governments strive to protect the different ways of expression of cultural diversity. He also noted that equality in civic participation should be encouraged since it leads to a feeling of inclusiveness. Sheila Copps of Canada spoke about taking into consideration minority cultures in policy-making. Denis Molchanov of Russia reiterated the need to be tolerant of all cultures and to treat them equally. Rafael Bernal Alemany of Cuba echoed this sentiment and stated that cultural policies should be clear and precise if they are to promote cultural diversity, social cohesion and peace.

An additional dimension linking cultural diversity to education was provided by Antun Vujic of Croatia, who noted that the promotion of tolerance and inclusiveness begins with education. Finally,Antonio Rudder of Barbados commented on the importance of the Network in maintaining and nurturing dialogue and exchange between countries on cultural diversity issues.

Ministers concluded that the management of cultural diversity is essential in today’s multicultural societies. Effective policies lead to tolerance, inclusiveness and peaceful intercultural relations.

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