Reports on the changing ethnic environment of Georgia to be published

The reports of the Changing Ethnic Environment in Georgia-conference are going to be published. The reports are obtainable at the organizer, ECMI Caucasus.

The conference Changing Ethnic Environment in Georgia was held on 22-23 June at Bazaleti Study Centre. The purpose of the conference was to raise awareness of the recent developments in the sphere of the Ethnic and National Minorities governance issues. The purpose was also to make aware of the change of the general public opinion during the recent years. Well-known experts reported on their recent research and studies of a number of topics. The reports are going to be published.

- the post-Soviet identity and ethnic minorities in Georgia,
- the policy on minorities in contemporary Europe
- the ethnic policy of Georgia and international conventions
- the political aspects of Islam in Georgia
- the role of media in the integration of ethnic minorities
- the dynamics of cross-border conflicts and security challenges in Georgia

Key topics led to very active discussions

The conference brought together around 70 participants working on issues of minorities, border areas, repatriation and reintegration of deportees, as well as public figures and leaders of the Diasporas from various regions of Georgia.

The discussions demonstrated great interest among the public and academic community in the issues presented. Very active discussions were held on the following topics;

- How European Experience is relevant for Georgia?
- Changing Ethnic Environment in Georgia – Managing Diversity
- Regional Cooperation – A new Dimension in Minority Participation
- Repatriation and Integration – How can Georgia use the best Practices?

The conference was organized by European Centre for Minority Issues Caucasus within the framework of the EU-funded programme Supporting the repatriation of persons deported from Georgia in the 1940s and their descendants.