Living Together is a major British Council initiative that brings diverse groups together from across Europe, to contribute to the global debate on intercultural dialogue.

How will the project operate?
The Project will address specific issues faced by the region as it strives to develop societies that are accepting and welcoming of difference, where people are able to participate fully, positively and on equal terms with one another.

Who will we be working with?
We aim to reach and work with young people by engaging them in debate, with the goal of creating a network of future leaders who are committed to living, working in, and shaping societies where all people are treated with equal respect. It will operate in 27 countries across the UK, Balkans, South Caucasus, Eastern Mediterranean and North Europe.

A focus on new migrant communities
The project will concentrate on two areas where intercultural dialogue is vital. The first is new migrant communities and their impact on society. For many host societies, the fear that new people will overwhelm or alter cultural norms radically is a powerful argument against immigration. But at the same time, many of the world’s most successful societies are characterised by their eclectic architecture, customs or cuisines.

A focus on minority communities
Living Together will also consider, as a major area in intercultural dialogue, the position of minority communities. In some situations, minorities continue to be excluded from public life by law. More often, taking an active part is tacitly discouraged, or else minorities find it hard to overcome barriers of language or cultural norms. We want to look at the way these communities take an active role in their societies.

How Living Together works as a multi-lateral project
Living Together will use a range of approaches to explore these issues, including a photography and film exhibition, young people’s programmes and international workshops. The project will involve more countries as it develops (we already went beyond the boundaries of South East Europe). We believe that Living Together raises important issues for the region; however, we also believe that these issues have a deep resonance for other parts of the world, including wider Europe.

Getting involved
There will be many opportunities and ways to get involved with Living Together. Visit our 'What's happening in my country' page for the e-mail address of your country's project manager.