March 2006, Issue no 45
http://resource.regional.net
impact@regionalnet.org

1. Funding Opportunities

2. Announcements and Upcoming Events

3. Useful Links

South East Media and TV Training: Education for young TV Journalists


The company ‘Südost-Medienagentur’ with a main office in Bremen, Germany, invites ten young people from South East Europe to a 6-month educational course on TV Journalism. The education will stress on practice. With the 2006 course the programme, financed by the Stability Pact for South East Europe, will be successfully completed for the sixth time.

The first 10 weeks of the course will be conducted in Belgrade. The participants will study the journalist and technical aspects of the creation of a TV reportage. Then they will complete a one-month internship at a TV station i their native countries. In September the students will produce independently a short TV film. In October a two-day seminar will take place in Belgrade and the independent films will be officially presented.

The participants will have to meet the following requirements:
Higher Education
Good English knowledge
German knowledge desirable
Journalist Background, preferably TV
Age up to 30 years.

The project and the scholarships in the amount of three times EUR 200, as well as the accommodation and transportation costs of the foreign participants are fully financed by the Stability Pact for South East Europe.

The course will begin on 15th May 2006 in Belgrade.

More information
E-mail: info@suedost-medienagentur.de
suedost3@eunet.yu


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European Cultural Foundation - Closer Look
Application deadline: twelve weeks before the travel date


What?
The European Cultural Foundation (ECF) supports the travel costs of young European journalists who wish to report on popular and youth cultures in the neighbouring countries of the European Union. The ECF gives priority to those topics which highlight aspects of cultural diversity and intercultural competence.

Why?
The Amsterdam-based ECF is an independent foundation which supports cultural cooperation as an important element of the European integration process. By supporting the mobility of journalists of popular and youth culture, it hopes to bring deeper understanding and emotional commitment to the idea of further EU enlargement.

Who?
European journalists under 35 who are interested in popular and youth cultures and are working in the print media, television or radio are eligible for support.

Where?
The eligible destinations are: Albania, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Macedonia, Moldova, Romania, Russia, Serbia and Montenegro, Turkey and Ukraine.

How to apply?
By filling in the application form and sending it to the ECF at least twelve weeks before the travel date. The application form and instructions can be downloaded from the ECF website. (www.eurocult.org à programmes à media). Your application MUST include a fully completed application form, an attached biography, a letter from an editor confirming that the produced material will be published/broadcast, and any other relevant information. All documents should be in English. A decision is made at least four weeks before the date of departure, and the applicant is informed within one week of the ECF’s and the advisory committee’s decision. Closer Look grants cover travel costs, visa costs and, in certain cases, accommodation costs.

More information
Website: www.eurocult.org
E-mail: tlaitio@eurocult.org (Media Programme Officer, Tommi Laitio)


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European Cultural Foundation - Cultural Policy Research Award 2006
Application deadline: April 1, 2006


The main aim of the Cultural Policy Research Award (CPR Award) is to stimulate academic research in the field of cultural policy. An emphasis is placed on research that can inform policymaking and benefit practitioners active in the field. The research should throw light on contemporary European cultural issues and challenges by analyzing them and offering possible policy solutions.

The CPR Award seeks to contribute to the creation of a cultural policy 'infrastructure' - a network of scholars with competence in comparative research related to cultural policy. Additionally, the award evaluates existing research achievements, connects academic centres, and promotes an interdisciplinary approach in the sphere of cultural policy research.

The overall area covered by the award is 'applied comparative cultural policy research'. Preference will be given to proposed research which covers a topical issue affecting contemporary Europe and which considers the possible remodelling of cultural systems, cultural institutions and cultural policy education. The research project must provide new insights and suggest practical policy orientations and/or recommendations for decision-makers and thinkers (new policy solutions, proposals of new instruments and/or procedures). The research may focus on a variety of topics. Legal, economic, social, managerial, ethical, technological and other relevant categories of issues (e.g. in the media & communication sphere) will receive equal attention in the selection
process.

Priority will be given to evaluative, comparative and action-research projects which cover the European or macro-regional space. The research outcomes should contain relevant policy proposals for systemic and structural changes, or innovative ideas for rethinking the position of arts and culture in the context of European enlargement and integration.

Young academics, researchers and policymakers (aged 35 or under) are eligible for the 10,000 Euro award. Applications should be submitted through the online application form on the CPR Award website. Before applying, candidates are strongly advised to consult the website for advice on how to prepare their applications.

More information
Website: http://www.cpraward.org/
E-mail: cpraward@cpraward.org (Svetlana Jovicic, CPRA manager)


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Joint Small Projects Fund Bulgaria/Serbia and Montenegro 2004
Application deadline: April 10, 2006, 16.00 (local time)


Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works (Bulgaria) and European Agency for Reconstruction (Serbia and Montenegro) are seeking proposals to support small scale, ‘people-to-people’ and ‘soft’ local development activities of a cross-border nature. The ultimate objective will be to enhance the capability of the local and regional authorities to develop and implement joint projects within the border region in the following Bulgarian NUTS III level territorial units: Vidin, Montana, Sofia District (partially – Godech, Dragoman, Kostinbrod, Svoge, Slivnitsa), Pernik and Kyustendil and Serbian districts - Borski, Zajecarski, Nisavski, Pirotski, Jablanicki, Pcinjski. Financial assistance is provided from the Neighbourhood programme Bulgaria – Serbia and Montenegro 2004 of the European Communities.

More information
Website:
http://www.mrrb.government.bg/pageen.php?P=54&SP=415


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European Centre for Minority Issues - Internship EU Programme
Application deadline: April 13, 2006


The European Centre for Minority Issues EU Programme is currently seeking an intern for the period 29 May - 1 September 2006. The intern will be assisting in the preparation of the second workshop on 'The Aspect of Culture in the Social Inclusion of Ethnic Minorities,' and all follow-up activities, including drafting the workshop report. Other responsibilities will include preparing background papers on social inclusion and the development of cultural indicators, editing country reports, and any other tasks assigned by the Project Manager. There may be some cross-over with other departments as necessary.

The intern will require a bachelor's (ideally masters) degree in sociology, be willing to work independently, and in a fast-paced environment. The applicant is required to be a native English speaker, as some editing will be required. Other European language skills will be an asset, but are not required. The intern must be organized and have excellent communications skills.

Please provide a letter of motivation, CV and short writing sample (5-7 pages), which may be an excerpt of an academic paper, demonstrating knowledge of the sociological field, and English language competence. Please note that this position is unpaid, however, accommodation is provided.

More information
E-mail: blacklock@ecmi.de (Denika Blacklock)


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PCMLP - The 5th Media Law Advocates Training Programme, July 9 – 28, 2006, University of Oxford
Application deadline: April 14, 2006


This intensive 3 week training programme in human rights and media law with a focus on litigation and advocacy skills is run by PCMLP in collaboration with the Open Society Justice Initiative and other organisations.

The course is designed for lawyers from any country who are interested in deepening their understanding of the various regional and international human rights systems, focusing on the protection and promotion of the exercise of the rights to freedom of expression and information. Participants are granted automatic membership of the International Media Lawyers Association (IMLA), an international network of lawyers working in the areas of media law, media freedom and media policy, and committed to promoting and defending the fundamental human rights of freedom of expression and freedom of information. The aim of this programme is to add value and to capacitate those who are trying to handle such issues day-to-day and whose work could benefit from additional skills and knowledge. Applicants should have a strong commitment to human rights, especially to media freedom, a law degree, and eligibility for legal practice in his/her country.

Applicants should therefore:
* be early to mid-career (ie not students or very recent graduates)
* have demonstrated some commitment to promoting and protecting media freedom in their work (if they are in academia they need to demonstrate that they are also engaged in activism/advocacy)
* have a law degree and be working as 'advocates' in either the narrower or wider sense, so litigating in the courts or hands-on engagement in law reform (eg legal drafting) and campaigning on freedom of expression and information issues.
Criteria for selection will include the relevant experience of the applicant, and the applicant's potential to contribute to the development of media defence litigation and legislative drafting, which could include involvement with a human rights or media freedom NGO or work directly with media enterprises and journalists.

Fees and scholarships
The fee for the programme is £3,500. This fee includes tuition, written materials and accommodation in Oriel College. There is cashback of up to £500 for travel costs on production of relevant receipts.

The Open Society Justice Initiative will be supporting eleven Justice Initiative Fellows from the countries where it is carrying out media freedom and access to information projects. Applicants should be lawyers and should be working directly or indirectly on Justice Initiative projects, particularly on their projects in Africa, Eastern Europe and Latin America. The Open Society Foundation will be supporting six Fellows from the Middle East, North Africa and South East Asia. Applicants should be lawyers and should be working directly or indirectly on Open Society Foundation projects.

The Synchronicity Foundation will be supporting one Fellow. Applications for this fellowship can be accepted only from Russian citizens who are based in Russia.

NB All applicants who wish to be considered for one of the above scholarships should mark this clearly on section 13 of the application form.

Other applicants are encouraged to contact organisations in their own country to enquire about funding opportunities to attend this programme, as well as apply for funding for professional development at their own workplace (law firms, companies or organisations of which they are employees). Applicants are encouraged to apply to these institutions as early as possible.

More information
Website: http://pcmlp.socleg.ox.ac.uk/html/MLAP2006.htm
www.internationalmedialawyers.org
E-mail: louise.scott@csls.ox.ac.uk


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Central European University –Semester or academic year in Budapest, Hungary


The Central European University (www.ceu.hu) invites applications from graduate students and young professionals to spend the Fall 2006 semester or the academic year 2006/2007 in Budapest, Hungary. The program is sponsored by the Center for Media and Communication Studies (CMCS) at CEU.

In the semester program offered only in fall, students ordinarily remain enrolled at their home institution but spend an exciting semester in Budapest, engaging in the MPP Media Stream and taking selected courses (including courses on EU law) from the gifted CEU faculty.

Students can remain for the academic year and receive a Master’s in Public Policy (http://www.ceu.hu/mpp/). CMCS launched the MA Program in ‘Media, Information and Telecommunication Policy’ as part of CEU’s Public Policy Program.

Duration: For the semester program: September 2006 through December 2006; For the 1-year MA-program: September 2006 through July 2007.

More information
Website: http://www.cmcs.ceu.hu:8080/cmcs/MPP_Media_Brochure_2006_2007.pdf
E-mail: at vispriebs@ceu.hu (Project Manager, Ms. Nanne Priebs)


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Open Society Institute Budapest - Soros Supplementary Grants Programme
Application deadline: April 15, 2006


This programme was created to assist the citizens of Central and Eastern Europe - CEE, the former Soviet Union and Mongolia, who are pursuing advanced study within this region but outside of their home countries. It is part of the Open Society Institute's overall efforts to strengthen the academic network within and among these countries.

As of 2006, the Soros Supplementary Grants Programme (SSGP) 2006-2007 offers grants ONLY to:
- Re-applying SSGP grantees enrolled in currently supported degree programmes in the participating countries: Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Georgia, Hungary, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Moldova, Mongolia, Poland, Romania, Russia, Serbia and Montenegro, Slovakia, Slovenia Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan
- Re-applying SSGP grantees with a good academic record and who have fulfilled their obligations to OSI
- Re-applying SSGP grantees who are citizens or permanent residents from one of the above-mentioned countries
- Re-applying SSGP grantees with demonstrated commitment to return to their home country upon completion of their degree
- Re-applying SSGP grantees having credible proof of other sources of financial support.

Grants are available to undergraduates and post-graduates enrolled at recognised institutes of higher education. The institutes should be outside of their home country or permanent residence and in one of the participating countries.

The grants are offered for one academic year and will be granted in amounts ranging from $ 1,000 to 5,000 US.

For further information, please contact the appropriate scholarship program co-ordinator at the national foundation in the home country.

More information
Website: http://www.soros.org/initiatives/scholarship/focus_areas/soros_supplementary/guidelines
E-mail: info@osi.hu


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2nd MMCP Diversity Management Training Jamboree, June 24 - 29, 2006, Budapest, Hungary
Application deadline: April 25, 2006


Managing Multiethnic Communities Program (MMCP) and the Local Government and Public Service Reform Initiative (LGI) of the Open Society Institute (OSI), Budapest, Hungary, announce a four-day Diversity Management Training Jamboree. The event offers two new courses focusing on cross-cutting issues between the different topics of the MMCP Diversity Training Packages developed by LGI core training experts.
- Workshop 1: Ethnic Diversity and Power Sharing in the Local Policy Process
- Workshop 2: Ethnic Diversity, Conflict and the Local Public Policy Process.

MMCP Trainings and Workshops are designed for policy makers, policy advisors, officials from public, private and voluntary organizations, think-tank staff members and the media to raise their awareness about public policies and the role of central and local governments in a multiethnic environment. The trainings aim at equipping participants with skills and knowledge such that policy-makers can address successfully the needs of multiethnic communities.

Participants learn how political, legal, and administrative concepts relate to the public management of multiethnic communities. Trainings also includes various case study exercises aimed at improving the participants' capacity to turn those concepts into practice through policy decisions. Moreover, participants became familiar with various participatory techniques and policymaking skills, such as conflict and force-field analysis, mediation, negotiation, and participatory planning.

Participants from Central and Southeast Europe, Central Asia, and Indonesia are invited to apply. Participants will be selected based on their online applications, according to the following criteria:
· Previous training experience and knowledge of different aspects of diversity management
· Experience in working with local governments, civil society organizations or with diverse communities
· Working for institutions that have the capacity to multiply the program at national level
· Good English language skills
LGI actively encourages the application of candidates associated with the national secretariats of the Decade of Roma Inclusion.

LGI has secured full funding to support the participation of 40 trainers selected on a competitive basis, 20 participants for each of the four workshops. LGI will cover their tuition and materials, accommodation, meals and transportation (to and from Budapest) costs.

In addition, 8 self-funded participants will be selected as well. (4 for each workshop) Such participants (or their organizations) are expected to cover their travel expenses, accommodation. Tuition fees are covered by LGI.

IMPORTANT!
1. When applying, please select the Application Form of the Workshop you want to attend!
2. Please indicate in the last section of your application what places you are applying for: LGI-funded or self-funded.
3. Only complete applications will be considered in the selection process. They should include the application form and a CV, plus a sample training syllabus, if applicable.
4. Late submissions will not be considered in the selection process

More information
Website: http://lgi.osi.hu/documents.php?id=36
E-mail: aradosits@osi.hu (Angela Radosits, LGI Program Assistant)


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European Commission Directorate General Employment - Gender Equality
Application deadline: April 28, 2006


The objective of this programme (2001-2006) is to develop the capacity of applicants to promote gender equality effectively, particularly through support for the exchange of information and good practice and networking at Community level.

The areas of action are:
1. Economic life - this relates to the remaining gaps in the labour market and the ways to tackle them. Action should increase the employment rate of women, reduce unemployment rates in women and make it easier for women and men to reconcile working with family life.
2. Equal participation and representation - this covers the lack of women's participation in decision-making bodies. Actions should adopt strategies and instruments to promote women political, economic and social decision-making at all levels, including activities in external relations and development cooperation.
3. Social rights - effect gender mainstreaming needs to be applied to all policy areas which have an impact on women's daily life such as transport, public health and the fight against discrimination on other grounds. Actions should be coordinated with those of the Community action programme to combat discrimination and other relevant action programmes.
4. Civil rights - this addresses the enforcement of the human rights of women. Actions should promote the recognition of human rights of women, enforce equal opportunity rights and strengthen the fight against gender-related violence and trafficking in women.
5. Gender roles and stereotypes - this addresses the stereotyped images of women and men and the need to change behaviour, attitudes, norms and values, which define and influence gender roles in society. Actions should cover gender mainstreaming, in particular in education, training, culture, science, media and sport policies.

In 2006, the priority theme will be 'the promotion of gender equality, particularly in local development'. This theme will allow two different but complementary issues to be dealt with.
1. How to encourage balanced participation of men and women in the various aspects of local development, both economic and social
2. How policies implemented at local level can encourage on a daily basis, the promotion of gender equality.
This priority theme may be developed in areas such as economic life, equal participation and representation, social rights, civil life, gender roles and stereotypes.

Eligible to apply are: NGOs and social partners at European level, transnational networks of regional or local authorities, networks of organisations promoting gender equality.

Activities should include participants from at least three countries among the EU Member States, the EEA countries - Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, or the candidate countries -Bulgaria and Romania..

The Community's financial contribution will not exceed 80%. Community grants will be between EUR 250 000 and EUR 500 000.

More information
Website:
http://europa.eu.int/comm/employment_social/emplweb/tenders/tenders_en.cfm?id=105
http://europa.eu.int/comm/employment_social/calls/2005/vp_2005_020/call_en.pdf
E-mail: empl-g01@cec.eu.int


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South East Europe Media Organisation (SEEMO) - Dr. Erhard Busek - SEEMO Award for Better Understanding in South East Europe 2006
Application deadline: May 1, 2006


Sponsored by Dr. Erhard Busek, special coordinator for the Stability Pact, the 2,000 Euro award will be given to a journalist, editor, media executive or person educating journalists in South Eastern Europe, thus using the media to promote a climate of better understanding among people in the region and to work towards ending minority problems, ethnic divisions, racism, xenophobia etc.

In 2002, the South East Europe Media Organisation (SEEMO) and its international jury chose Croatian journalist Denis Latin as its recipient of the Dr. Erhard Busek - SEEMO 2002 Award for Better Understanding in South East Europe, in recognition of his outstanding efforts in journalism, which contributed toward better understanding in South Eastern Europe. In 2003, the award was presented to Kemal Kurspahic, former editor-in-chief of the Sarajevo daily Oslobodjenje. The 2005 Award was given to Brankica Petkovic, Head of the Center for Media Policy at the Peace Institute in Ljubljana, Slovenia, and editor-in-chief of the book versions of Media Watch and Media Watch Journal. She is also the author of a number of articles on media representations of minorities, with a special focus on the Roma minority in Slovenia.

If you know of anyone who would be a worthy recipient of the Dr. Erhard Busek - SEEMO Award for Better Understanding in South East Europe, please send a letter to SEEMO with basic details about the person (along with a professional CV, describing why she/he should receive the award), as well as the contacts of the person (media organisation, address, phone, fax, email). In case you would like to nominate a media outlet or an organisation/institution, please always provide details of its representative, because this award can be presented only to individuals.

If your nomination is supported by an organisation/media outlet, please send us the name of the contact person supporting your nomination, as well as basic information about the organisation / media outlet. If your nomination is supported by another individual or individuals, please send us their details and contact information. We would also need your own details and contact information (address, phone, fax, email, mobile phone).

Any additional material about the nominated person (such as TV reports on video or DVD, audio reports on cassette or CD, or articles in newspapers), if possible with a short English translation, are welcomed. Unfortunately, supporting material cannot be returned, so please always send copies.

More information
E-mail: info@seemo.org


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Regional Partnership Programme - Second Call for Proposals for initiatives in the field of development awareness/education and development cooperation
Application deadline: May 19, 2006


This call will be open for initiatives in the field of development awareness/education and development cooperation. To generate a broad consensus between the participating countries, the core objectives of the international co-operation within the RPP are the Millennium Development Goals. As cross-cutting issues, the projects to be implemented should always meet the principles of gender equality, integration in the socio-economic background, environmental protection and the ownership-principle.

Eligible are NGOs from New EU Member States which participate in the RPP (Slovak Republic, Czech Republic, Hungary and Slovenia). Proposals have to be submitted in partnership with Austrian NGOs, but the lead agency has to come from a New Member State.

EUR 244.800 will be available for grants in development education and EUR 270.000 will be available for development cooperation projects. 78% of these funds come from the Austrian Development Cooperation and 22% from the respective national governments.

The results on the appraisal of the proposals will be published on June 23, 2006. Approved projects can start in the beginning of July at the earliest.

More information
Website: http://www.regionalpartnership.at


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University of Graz - Master programme in European Integration and Regionalism
Application deadline: May 31, 2006


The core topics are:
- Module I: European Integration (2 residential weeks in August/September 2006, Bolzano, Italy)
- Module II: EU Law (2 residential weeks in November 2007, Luxembourg)
- Module III: Federalism and Regionalism (2 residential weeks in January 2007, Graz, Austria)
- Module IV: Regional and Social Cohesion (2 residential weeks in March 2007, Barcelona, Spain)
- Module V: Minorities and Diversity (2 residential weeks in June 2007, Bolzano, Italy).

Applications can be made either to the full programme or to single modules. In the latter case attendance of a module will lead to the award of a certificate.

Degree
Successful participants of the Master programme will be awarded by the University of Graz the academic degree of a 'Master of European Studies' (M.E.S.).

Target Group
- Civil servants from local, regional or national administrations who are dealing with EU affairs and therefore require both theoretical and practical training in EU and regional issues
- Lawyers, economists, social scientists and others in the employment of non-governmental organisations wishing to enhance inter-disciplinary skills and to specialise on different aspects of European integration, regionalism and diversity
- Graduate students wishing to acquire a more in-depth understanding of EU and regional issues, beneficial for a future career in the academia or even practice-orientated work.

Costs and Scholarships
The registration fee for the overall Masters programme is 6,500 EUR. For participants of single modules, a registration fee of 1,300 EUR per module will be charged. These fees do not include travel expenses or accommodation, which are to be covered by the participants themselves. Applicants should apply for financial support directly to local foundations, international NGOs or other funding agencies. Upon request, we will send all the information needed to a prospective donor source.

More information
Website: http://www.eurac.edu/meir


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Center for Interdisciplinary Postgraduate Studies of the University of Sarajevo - European Regional Master’s Degree in Democracy and Human Rights in South East Europe (ERMA)
Application deadline: June 1, 2006


The European Regional Master’s Degree in Democracy and Human Rights in South East Europe (ERMA), is a unique regional interdisciplinary one – year full time MA programme. It is established in 2000, through the joint efforts of eleven participating universities and research centers, coordinated by the Center for Interdisciplinary Postgraduate Studies of the University of Sarajevo in cooperation with the University of Bologna through its Centre for East, Central and Balkan Europe.

The ERMA is an educational activity intended for students that would combine practical experience in human rights issues with further academic study. After recognizing that human rights go across the disciplines of study, as political science, law, sociology, philosophy and social sciences in general, the Programme has adopted an interdisciplinary approach.

The MA Programme promotes development and realisation of young generation of officials for state management, inter-governmental and non-governmental organisations, for universities and think tanks in Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Croatia, Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro and UN Administered Kosovo as well as in the countries belonging to the EU, the rest of Europe, and worldwide. The structure of the lectures, the access to internships and the Faculty are defined in order to emphasise among the participants a shared consciousness that the democratic development and human rights promotion, protection and implementation in the region depend on plurality of factors. Most of the relevant issues in the SEE stability, democracy, and development are mutually correlated and influence each other. Thus, a common regional effort in achieving them will have more chance for success in a context of inclusive policies and in the framework of a rapid European Union integration process.

Admission Requirements
ERMA offers a limited number of places therefore it is a highly competitive programme. It is open to candidates who hold a high standard university degree in disciplines relevant to human rights, in particular law, social and political sciences and humanities from an accredited university.
· Fluency in English is a necessary prerequisite for admission, as the Programme language is English. Therefore the students must have sufficient language skills and provide evidence for their proficiency. The MA Programme recognizes the following international English Language proficiency certificates:
· The upper age limit of potential applicants is 35 years of age.
· Currently, thirty (30) places are reserved for citizens of the countries/territories of South East Europe involved in the program - Albania; Bosnia and Herzegovina; Croatia; Macedonia; Serbia and Montenegro and Kosovo. Five (5) places are reserved for citizens of the European Union countries plus Bulgaria and Romania.

Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition fee is determined for each academic year by the Executive Board of the programme. In the academic year 2006/2007, the tuition fee is 1000 EURO. Full tuition fee weaver is available for the citizens of the countries/territories of South East Europe involved in the programme (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro, and Kosovo). The students from Bulgaria and Romania, as well as the EU students are not offered tuition fee weaver. The SEE as well as the EU citizens are eligible for student’s maintenance grants up to 400 EU per month, and depending on the individual financial needs. The final decision on the scholarship amount will be decided upon admission of the students by the Executive Board of the ERMA.

More information
Website: http://www.cps.edu.ba/ENGLESKI/index.html
E-mail: coordination@cps.edu.ba


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European Cultural Foundation - Balkan Incentive Fund for Culture
Application deadline: July 1, 2006


The ECF, Hivos and OSI are providing a new funding opportunity for artistic and cultural organisations in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro and Kosovo/a. The aim is to contribute to the region’s European integration, bridging the gap from the current situation (in which there is almost no money for cultural cooperation) to the region’s full participation in EU programmes. Special attention will be given to projects that explore intercultural dialogue and competence in regional cooperation. The fund is managed within the ECF’s grants programme and follows its application procedures.

More information
Website: http://www.eurocult.org
E-mail: lreijs@eurocult.org (Lodewijk Reijs)


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The Faculty of International Business and Economics, the Academy of Economic Studies Bucharest, the Group of Applied Economics and the REI-50 Foundation - ‘The Future of Europe - Challenges and Opportunities’, November 16 - 18, 2006, Bucuresti, Romania
Application deadline: March 31, 2006


Once admitted in the European Union, the new member states should acknowledge the fact that integration is not an end in itself, but the continuation of a profound transformation process, that will further impact its economic, social and political setting.

Conference works will be organised in four sections as follows:
• The Challenges of Markets’ Integration
• Competitiveness, Innovation and Knowledge Society
• The European Model: Myth or Reality?
• Sustainable Growth: Acknowledging the Limits
We kindly invite you to submit paper proposals for one of the above-mentioned sections.

More information
Website: www.rei.ase.ro/conferences/futureofeurope
E-mail: conference@rei.ase.ro (Prof. Mihai Korka, Dean of the Faculty of International Business and Economics)


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Regional and Euroregional Structures Efficiency in the Area of the New EU Border
Application deadline: March 31, 2006


University of Oradea (Romania) in cooperation with University of Debrecen (Debrecen), Siena Network of European Studies (Italy), University of Reims Champagene-Ardenne (France), International Institute of Administrative Sciences from Bruxelles (Belgium), University 'Alexandru Ioan Cuza' of Iasi (Romania), Moldova State University, Chisinau (Moldova), Uzhgorod National University (Ukraine) and 'Forum' Foundation Oradea, under the Patronage of European Commission - Jean Monnet Project present ‘Regional and Euroregional Structures Efficiency in the Area of the New EU Border’ Summer course, July 6 - 18, 2006

The course aims to present different experiences from different parts of Europe – research in the field of European construction, Romanian-Hungarian cross-border cooperation, and also the media’s contribution in building the European identity.

The course is structured on five workshops that will take place: in Oradea, Iasi (Romania), Debrecen (Hungary), Uzhgorod (Ukraine) and Chisinau (Moldova). The program includes an itinerary in the Carpathian, Bihor - Hajdu-Bihar, Prutul de Sus, Dunarea de Jos Euroregions, and Maramures Microeuroregion.

Participation in the summer school is limited to about 40 persons (graduate and undergraduate students, and young researchers): 20 from Central-Eastern Europe (countries situated around the new Eastern border of EU - Baltic countries, Belarus, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Republic of Moldavia, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine), 15 from the European Community (except for Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia) and 5 out of the European area.

Fee payments are 500 Euro that cover transportation expenses of the itinerary, course fee, three meals per day and accommodation.

Applying for a scholarship
Full and partial financial support is available under the sponsorship of European Commission for a limited number of participants. Scholarships are distributed, as follows:
Central-Eastern Europe - 7 full scholarships, 7 partial scholarships
European Community - 3 full scholarships, 3 partial scholarships
In order to apply for a scholarship, your application must include:
- A letter of motivation
- A recent CV or resume
- A summary of min. 300 words of an article (please see the topics on the website).

More information
Website: http://iser.rdsor.ro/summer_registration.htm
http://iser.rdsor.ro/summer_organizers.htm
E-mail: burse@uoradea.ro (Laura Turdean)


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School for International Training - Summer Training in Conflict Transformation, May 28 - June 16, 2006
Application deadline: April 15, 2006


The program in Conflict Transformation Across Cultures (CONTACT) at the School for International Training is pleased to share with you information about our Summer Institute. The first two weeks (May 28 -June 9) or the final week (June 12-16) may be completed separately.

The CONTACT Summer Institute is a professional graduate-level training program in conflict transformation. It is specifically designed for field workers of community-based organizations who face the challenges of serving communities in volatile environments. Appropriate candidates for this program include professionals in community development, human service or religious organizations, schools, public agencies, and other nongovernmental or nonprofit organisations who have a solid foundation in human relations skills and a strong commitment to coexistence and the transformation of intercultural conflicts. Participants in the program generally come from 25-30 countries, creating a strong multinational professional network.

Skills Offered:
· Conflict Analysis and Internvention
· Intercultural Negotiation and Mediation
· Non-Violent Action
· Inter-communal Dialogue
· Training Design
· Fundraising for Peace Work.

Graduate Certificate and Degree Programs
Participants who would like a more thorough grounding in conflict transformation can continue their studies in CONTACT's Graduate Certificate Program or the Joint Certificate/MA in Conflict Transformation at the School for International Training (SIT).

Registration and Contact Information
Applications are available now and are due by April 15 (or as soon as possible if you are applying for financial aid or need a visa). For more about fees, funding, scholarships, and applying to CONTACT, please contact the program managers, Andrew Dick or Eline Potoski.

More information
Website: www.sit.edu/contact
E-mail: contact@sit.edu


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The Republic of Macedonia Business and Investment Summit, April 27 – 28, 2006, Skopje, Macedonia


A new page in the Republic of Macedonia history has been turned following the EU's decision in December 2005 to grant the country candidate status. The road is now cleared for growth and new perspectives for business and investments in the Republic of Macedonia are emerging and developing fast. In this promising context, we are pleased to announce that The Republic of Macedonia Business and Investment Summit will take place in Skopje at the Aleksandar Palace, on 27-28 April 2006.

This event will largely focus on investment (FDI) and trade opportunities in the Republic of Macedonia as well as on the financial services sectors within the evolving economic, banking and financial environment. This major Summit on the potential of the Republic of Macedonia's economy is expected to attract a wide and influential audience from the private and public sectors and to enable them to exchange views - in a perfect environment for networking. The participants will include highest governmental experts, businessmen and representatives of companies and financial institutions from more than 20 countries. The Summit will be opened on Thursday 27 April at 09.00 by H.E. Vlado Buckovski, Prime Minister of the Republic of Macedonia.

More information
Website: www.euroconvention.com/7000-skopje.htm
E-mail: tdecraecker@euroconvention.com (Tanguy de Craecker, Managing Director, European Finance Convention)


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AEGEE - Summer University
Application deadline: April 27, 2006


AEGEE - Association des Etats Généraux des Etudiants de l'Europe ( European Students' Forum) is a student association. It promotes the idea of a unified Europe, cross-border co-operation, communication, integration among students and strives to create an open and tolerant society of tomorrow.

AEGEE is an interdisciplinary, voluntary, non-governmental, politically independent and non-profit making association. It is represented in 241 university cities, in 40 countries all around Europe. It's main field of action covers peace and stability, higher education, active citizenship and cultural exchange.

Each year 'Summer Universities' are held by most of the AEGEE local groups (called antennae) in order to promote the intercultural understanding. Students can travel to an antennae in another country, where the host students teach them their language and culture. It is a general policy that the participating students are hosted for free by the fellow AEGEE members, making travels in Europe affordable, and most important the communication with other students possible.

The summer university contains different kinds of programmes: language Course; language Course Plus; Summer Course; Summer Course Plus; Travelling Summer University; Summer Event. The activities of all antennae are co-ordinated by the European Board (Comité Directeur).

The procedure for applying online for the Summer University:
1. Connect to AEGEE's homepage http://www.aegee.org/su
2. Find the AEGEE antennae nearest to you and become a member
3. Contact the local antennae. You will be familiarised with the AEGEE and assisted to choose up to three destinations. You may then submit your application.

The duration of the Summer University varies between 1 and 4 weeks and the fees between EUR 100 and 240.

More information
Website: http://www.aegee.org/su
http://www.karl.aegee.org/su.nsf/Contact?OpenForm
E-mail: info@aegee.org


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The European Academy of Bolzano – ‘Minorities and Diversity’ course, June 12 – 23, 2006, Bolzano, Italy
Application deadline: April 30, 2006


The course will deal with the complexities of cultural diversity and minority protection in Europe mainly through discussion of the protection mechanisms of the United Nations, the OSCE and the Council of Europe with leading experts from these organizations. Moreover, the wide range of linguistic, educational and political rights to be found in different national constitutional systems will be explored. Particular attention will be given to the concept of cultural diversity under EC law gaining more and more significance beyond the context of minority protection.

This course is part of the Master in European Integration and Regionalism, a postgraduate programme offered by the University of Graz (www.kfunigraz.ac.at) and implemented in cooperation with the European Academy of Bolzano (www.eurac.edu/org/Minorities/index.htm) and the European Institute of Public Administration, Antennae Luxembourg and Barcelona (www.eipa.nl).

More information
Website: http://www.eurac.edu/meir
E-mail: meir@eurac.edu


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International Summer University BRAVE NEW EUROPE 2006 ‘Breaking a Habit’, July 2 - 15, 2006, Ljubljana, Slovenia
Application deadline: May 1, 2006


Organized by Young European Federalists Slovenia in cooperation with the Faculty of Social Sciences and Association for Political Science Students POLITUSS.

In the past years some major issues marked the political landscape of Europe. With constitutional deadlock and the next financial perspective up in the air, habits need to be broken and new ideas flown into the minds and hearts of European leaders. Who else but young people? When if not now?

Brave New Europe offers an interactive course on a wide range of topics concerning mainly (but not only) the EU. The summer school is composed of several modules: History, Institutions, Security Issues and External Affairs, Current Political Issues, Law, EU Frontiers, Economics and Youth. Apart from lectures the participants will have the chance to actively debate the issues in workshops, panels and in a simulation game.

Cost of the program: 260 EUR. Participation fee covers: registration fee, tuition and study material, accommodation and full board, social activities. All living and studying costs are therefore included. Partial reductions of participation fee can be offered. Please specify the need in a separate motivation letter. Partial 70% travel reimbursement will be offered to all participants (80% attendance required).

More information
Website: http://www.bne-isu.org
E-mail: bne@jef.si


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Summer School ‘The European Decision-Making Process’
Application deadline: May 5, 2006


The Summerschool is jointly organised by the Institute for European Studies of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel, the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna and the University of Vienna, July 10 – 22, 2006

Two weeks of intensive study on the European decision-making process, geared towards students that have a background in (international) politics and/or (European) law.
Study one week in the heart of Europe, i.e. at the Institute for European Studies of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel, where the theory of the decision-making process can be translated into practice: students will get a theoretical framework linked to study visits to the European Commission, the Parliament, and the Council. The one week study in Brussels is complemented with a one week study / workshop at the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna, in collaboration with the University of Vienna. The Summer School will be concluded with a simulation exercise involving all participants.

Registration fee is set at € 750. Students from EU-applicant countries (Bulgaria, Croatia, Romania, Turkey) as well as students from CEE, CIS and EU-applicant countries may benefit from a reduced registration fee of € 500. Registration is € 1.000 for any person who graduated before 2005. A limited number of stipends (resulting in a lower registration fee) are available upon request. These will be awarded on the basis of the student's file, needs and proven qualifications.

More information
Website: http://www.ies.be/summerschool/
E-mail: ies@vub.ac.be


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Petnica Science Center - Youth Research School 2006, Serbia
Application deadline: May 15, 2006


IYRS 2006 is a summer program of Petnica Science Center. The main idea of the program is to gather gifted students, extraordinary motivated for scientific research from the region of SE Europe and other countries in Petnica stimulating surrounding, give them short but intensive course of the scientific research methods and enable them to realize real research projects under supervision of professional scientists.

IYRS is organized and hosted by Petnica Science Center, the biggest and, probably, the oldest independent nonprofit organization for out-of-school science education in SE Europe. Since 1982 Petnica has organized nearly 2,000 programs (seminars, workshops, research camps etc.) for 40,000 students and science teachers. All Petnica programs are relying on its wide network of associates (over 1,500 of professional scientists, successful amateurs, promoters of science, science teachers etc.) in the country and abroad.

In order to realize small scientific projects, students will attend short but very intensive course of research methods (observation, measurement, experiment, simulation, results analysis, interpretation etc.). The focus of IYRS 2006 students research projects will be on astronomy, biology, ecology, linguistics, physics and psychology.

All students of age 17-20 20 (regardless of type of school they attend or their nationality) are eligible for IYRS 2006. Main criteria for admission are motivation for out-of-school learning and demonstrated interest in science. School grades are important, but they are not a discriminative factor. Open-mindedness and readiness for intensive work are much more important. Students that want to apply for this program should complete student application form, write a personal statement and provide two letters of recommendation.

Program fee including the course, accommodation and meals, admittance to recreation center and excursions is €400. There are no application fees.

More information
Website: http://www.psc.ac.yu/iyrs/
E-mail: iyrs@psc.ac.yu


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University of Ioannina and Municipality of Konitsa - Konitsa Summer School in Anthropology, Ethnography and Comparative Folklore of the Balkans, July 30 – August 12, 2006, Konitsa, Greece
Application deadline: April 30, 2006


Thematic fields
· Anthropological Theory and the Understanding of the Balkans
· Ethnography of Border Regions
· Fieldwork: Epistemological , Methodological and Ethical Aspects
· Comparative Folklore: Aspects of Culture in a Comparative Perspective
The daily schedule will be comprised by two morning and one afternoon teaching session.

Eligible to apply are final year undergraduate, MA and doctoral students from any Balkan, European or other country. Seventy (70) participants are expected to be admitted.

An estimated fee of 200 € is necessary for admission. This amount is intended to cover the travel costs of the lecturers and guest speakers. Accommodation and travel expenses during the Summer School will be covered by the municipality of Konitsa. The fee should be paid upon registration in Konitsa. Any travel costs for coming to and leaving Konitsa must be paid by the participants themselves.

More information
Website: http://www.uoi.gr/conferences/konitsa_summerschool/index_en.html
E-mail: konitsa_summerschool@yahoo.gr


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http://www.cespi.it/migraction2/papers.htm


A new updated version of the report ‘Controlling Exits to Gain Accession: Romanian Migration Policy in the Making’, by Sebastian Lazaroiu and Monica Lazaroiu is avaliable on the website of CeSPI. The report builds on a regular monitoring of Romanian policies in the field of migration (http://www.cespi.it/migraction2/mig2-eng.htm) and investigates the nexus between EU enlargement and the shaping of a migration policy by Romania.


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http://www.seeyn.org


The South East European Youth Network is an attempt of overcoming differences among societies that have recent tradition of conflicts through bringing young people from the entire South Eastern Europe region to work together. This is one of the seven networks established within FRESTA program conducted by Danish Foreign Ministry. Since youth is one of the pillars of FRESTA, SEEYN plays an important role in contributing to its overall goals such as peace, stability and democratic development in the region.


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http://see.oneworld.net


OneWorld SouthEast Europe is a regional edition of OneWorld.net, bringing news and information about the civil sector in SouthEast Europe. OWSEE features news and information from partners – NGOs from the region, which can also use the online space for networking towards a better civil society in the region of Southeast Europe.


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http://www.allavida.org/cgi-bin/click/click.cgi?id=122


Alliance magazine - March 2006
The March 2006 issue of Alliance, with a special feature on community philanthropy, has just been published.


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Euroregional Center for Democracy

Semenic Nr. 10
300035, Timisoara
Romania

Tel: + 4 0256 221 471
Fax: + 4 0256 436 633

http://www.regionalnet.org

Editor:
Camelia Cocioba

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