Is Europe being transformed by migration? How can we live together more successfully, with all of our different histories and diverse identities? Where should our societies position themselves on the spectrum between multiculturalism and assimilation? How can we involve minority communities more in public life? If education is at the heart of developing equal societies, who decides what students should learn – and who should teach them? What role does economic inequality play in radicalisation? These were just a few of the questions raised and discussed during the Living Together International Summit in Westminster Central Hall on 12-14 March 2008.

The Living Together Summit was the first of two high-profile international events taking place within the Living Together programme. It brought together 160 senior politicians, policymakers, journalists and leaders in civil society from across Europe for three days of discussions and workshops to explore practical ways of promoting equal opportunities and strengthening understanding within and between different cultures. The Summit focused in particular on the impact of migration, and the ability of minority communities to participate in public life.  It took place within the framework of the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue, and was organised under the auspices of the Council of Europe.

The main aims of the Summit were to:

			Raise awareness of the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue and communicate the idea that engaging positively with difference in society has significant social, economic and cultural benefits
			Open up discussion and debate around key issues facing the region on social inclusion, and share ideas and opinions on how to strengthen understanding between and within different cultures, and promote active and constructive participation in society.
			Encourage positive action and collaboration between policymakers, the media and civil society to close the gap between legislation and practice in the area of equal opportunities
			Provide a focus point for sharing materials and research for use by policymakers across the region and the UK, and build networks for the future
			Demonstrate the impact of our work across borders, such as our successful multi-lateral project, Leap of Faith Together, and its contribution to developing positive intercultural dialogue between north, central and south eastern Europe and the UK.

Visit our videoblog with interviews and keynote speeches of the participants of the Summit.

You can find the full programme and biographies of the speakers here. (PDF 1.64MB)

Read a summary of what happened at the Summit or take a look at some photos.

For more information, please contact our Living Together Project Manager, Kate Joyce.