“Unity in diversity” may be the EU’s motto but its translation into reality is not easy. In the last two decades, the concept of multiculturalism has come under attack in political and academic discourse for destabilizing national identity. Also, the attempt to build a “European Community” is perceived by many as a threat to the “national community” or to the nation-state.

Identity is becoming more complicated and multifaceted and nowadays, with greater mobility and the internet, communities are transcending national borders. This was also enhanced by decades of flux of migration in Europe. A number of questions arise over emerging forms of identities and communities which we aim to address in this panel:

Why is multiculturalism often no longer perceived as enriching our societies? Is there a distinct role for both the State and civil society? Can communities around Europe start a real dialogue with each other and understand each other’s views as a solution to living in a diverse society? What are the mechanisms to achieve that?

Also, the EU has created a community based on laws and values. Is it realistic or desirable to go beyond this legal sphere and strengthen cultural bonds between countries?

The speakers

• Jacqui Broadhead – Director, Global Exchange on Migration and Diversity, University of Oxford
• Malgorzata Moleda-Zdziech – Associate professor of sociology and political science. She has been working at Warsaw School of Economics for twenty years. Depuis juin 2018, elle représente l’Académie polonaise des sciences à l’étranger en tant que directrice de l’Agence polonaise de contact à Bruxelles.
• Yves Sintomer – Professor of political science and Board member at Paris 8 University (France).

PRACTICAL INFORMATION
> Where? House of European History, rue Belliard 135, 1000 Brussels – map
> When? Tuesday, November 5th 2019 at 6pm
> Language : Discussions in original languages, with English interpretation.
> Free entrance upon registration here
> More info here