In 1989 it took on the specific role of providing a political anchor point and protecting human rights for the new democracies in eastern Europe, helping the countries of central and eastern Europe to implement and consolidate political, legislative and constitutional reforms in parallel to their economic reforms, and providing know-how in such fields as human rights, local democracy, culture and environment.

"Fighting discrimination and promoting intercultural dialogue is a collective responsibility but it is also down to individuals.  That is the message of the Council of Europe's "Speak out against discrimination" campaign.  And since the media and media professionals have a major role to play in combating discrimination and encouraging intercultural dialogue, the Council of Europe has sought to involve all the media industry's players (publishers, regulators etc) in its anti-discrimination campaign and have them debate and propose solutions for promoting a culture of tolerance and mutual understanding, bearing in mind the media's contribution to informing the public and forming opinion.  It is for this reason that the Council of Europe, an institution at the forefront of promoting and protecting freedom of expression, is hosting the 3rd International Symposium for media professionals at the Palais de l'Europe in Strasbourg".

Gabriella BATTAINI-DRAGONI

General Director for Education, Culture & Heritage, Youth & Sports

General Coordinator for Intercultural Dialogue and for the Campaign « Speak out against Discrimination »