The Council of Europe and UNHCR, in partnership with the Centre for Public Policy Providus, the Society Integration Foundation and the Latvian Association of Local and Regional Governments, are organising an event to introduce the concept and approach of the Intercultural Cities programme to Latvian local and regional authorities, with a view to their joining the programme and to gaining the involvement of national authorities and civil society organisations.

The Council of Europe’s Intercultural Cities programme supports cities in developing, implementing and evaluating local diversity and inclusion strategies. It helps mobilise local politicians, policy officers, professionals, businesses and civil society to apply a new model of integration based on inclusive citizenship and positive interaction among people from different backgrounds.

The event is intended for local elected representatives; city officials responsible for integration, cultural diversity, social affairs or other relevant areas; and representatives of national authorities and NGOs. Those interested in attending should complete the registration form.

Programme

• 10:30-11:00 Arrival
• 11:00-11:00 Welcome address from representatives of UNHCR, the Council of Europe, Latvian Association of Local and Regional Governments, Society Integration Foundation
• 11:30-12:20 Intercultural Cities – What, Why, How?
• 12:20-13:10 How did the Intercultural Cities experience help in shaping better diversity and inclusion policies at city level? 
• 13:10-14:00 Lunch
• 14:00-16:00 Sharing existing practices from Latvian cities – Cesis, Jelgava, Liepaja