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Council of Europe Commissioner: Europe should embrace multiculturalism and avoid narrow definitions of national identities

30 November 2009 21:03 (UTC +04:00)

As APAâ€™s European bureau reports, He asked politicians to take such negative tendencies more seriously. â€œThere is a need to analyse and address the very root causes of these human and political failures. Our ability to interact positively with one another will affect the future of Europe.â€

Referring to the current discussions on national identity in France and some other parts of Europe, the Commissioner underlines that â€œsuch discussions could be helpful only if they avoid the trap of promoting one single identity which defines who is included and, by extension, who is excluded.â€

â€œWe all belong to a number of different categories which depend not only on ethnicity, nationality or faith. The imposition of one allegedly unique identity creates a basis for sectarian confrontationâ€, he warned.

Recalling the importance of social interaction and economic development to promote a mature sense of self-identity, Commissioner Hammarberg recommends the development of integration policies based on pluralism, justice and equal opportunities.

â€œThe school system is essential for building bridges between cultures. Education should be inclusive, non-segregated and teach respect for those who are differentâ€, said the Commissioner.