Print
See related documents
Written declaration No. 407 | Doc. 11509 | 24 January 2008
For realistic, credible intercultural dialogue
The undersigned,
1. Considering that the development of intercultural
and inter-religious dialogue within the framework of the Council
of Europe may be meaningful and credible only if it reflects the
democratic principles and values enshrined in the Statute of the
Council of Europe and makes it possible to promote them effectively
at international level;
2. Considering it regrettable that several recent Council of
Europe initiatives reflect a hazardous approach alien to democratic
culture and practices;
3. Note that such initiatives risk unnecessarily promoting those
they focus on, while not serving the fundamental cause and vocation
of the Council of Europe, indeed quite to the contrary;
4. Solemnly call on all the competent organs and authorities
of the Council of Europe to scrupulously ensure that any official
contact is avoided with personalities, governments or organisations
whose views or actions run directly or indirectly counter to the
texts and founding values of the Council of Europe;
5. Express the wish that wide-ranging inter-institutional debate
may be swiftly launched within the Council of Europe with a view
to realigning intercultural and inter-religious dialogue with the
Organisation's inherent outlook as enshrined in the Statute and
the European Convention on Human Rights.
Signed 
: