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European Year of...

2008 is the European year of Intercultural Dialogue (EYID). You may have heard about it but what does it really mean? And why do we have a year dedicated to multiculturalism?

With 27 member countries, the European Union is now more culturally diverse than before. The enlargement of the EU and globalisation are some of the factors that have increased the multicultural character of many countries, adding to the number of languages, religions, ethnic and cultural backgrounds found on the continent.

As a result, intercultural dialogue has an increasingly important role to play in fostering European identity and citizenship.

This year highlights that Europe’s great cultural diversity represents a unique advantage. It is aimed at encouraging all those living in Europe to explore the benefits of our rich cultural heritage and opportunities to learn from different cultural traditions.

Several events have already been organised but many more are to come, at an European level but also in each member state focusing on key topics, such as multilingualism, religions, culture, youth, science...

Between 04-11 December, Carmarthenshire will hold its first multicultural week. The following events will take place in the county: