Description: In line with the recommendations and policy guidelines outlined in the "White Paper on Intercultural Dialogue", the partnership between the Council of Europe and the MBI Al Jaber Foundation shall focus on strengthening Euro-Arab co-operation, and promoting education for human rights, rule of law, democratic citizenship and intercultural understanding. The agreement covers activities in the fields of research, support to in-service training and curriculum development, networking and discussion forums.

Implementation: The co-operation is managed by the Directorate General of Education, Culture and Heritage, Youth and Sport of the Council of Europe in synergy with the MBI Al Jaber Foundation. The agreement will run for 4 years with a total budget allocated by MBI of 1 million EURO. The Centre for Global Interdependence and Solidarity of the Council of Europe (known as the "North-South Centre") will be an implementing partner.

Background: MBI Al Jaber Foundation has recently signed a "Human Rights Glossary" agreement with the European Wergeland Centre (EWC), resource centre on education for intercultural understanding, human rights and democratic citizenship established in co-operation between Norway and the Council of Europe.

Secretary General Thorbjørn Jagland's quote for the media
Intercultural understanding is one of the main challenges of our societies: the Council of Europe has acted as a bridge in the last 60 years between different cultures in our Continent. Fostering dialogue is crucial for human rights' protection and development. I welcome this agreement with the MBI Al Jaber Foundation. It will enhance co-operation in the Euro-Mediterranean region, building on the MBI's extensive experience, know-how and contacts in the area."

Contact:
Can Fisek, Council of Europe Press office This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it tel.: +33 3 88 41 30 41