European Year against Racism 1997

In adopting the report by Mr Arie OOSTLANDER (PPE, NL) the European Parliament approved the proposal for a decision declaring 1997 "European Year against Racism" by 134 votes to 9, with 13 abstentions. The EP's amendments were aimed, in particular, at clarifying the goals to be met through the actions to be taken within the framework of the European Year against Racism. In this respect, actions were planned to: help promote understanding and recognition of other civilisations and their contributions to the culture of European countries; encourage social, cultural and religious organisations to play their part in fighting racism and promote social dialogue at European level; encourage migrants to make their own contribution to European art and culture; support training and educational projects (in schools, firms and churches) that raise awareness of racism. The EP also called for: the organisation of public debates aimed at a wide audience within the European Union; support for exchanges of experience among local and regional bodies wielding influence in the social, economic and housing spheres; support for minority groups combating discrimination against cultural minorities. Finally, the EP called for Community measures to be coordinated with the activities being developed by the Council of Europe. �