*EPF508 08/29/2003
Text: OSCE to Host Conference on Racism, Xenophobia, and Discrimination
(Conference will take place in Vienna September 4-5) (460)

The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe will host an international conference on combating racism, xenophobia and discrimination and its manifestations in Europe, Central Asia and North America, and the role of governments and civil society in promoting greater tolerance in Vienna on September 4-5.

Around 300 delegates from 55 participating States and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are expected to take part in the discussions.

Following is the OSCE press release:

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Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe
Chairman-in-Office
Media Advisory
29 August 2003

OSCE TO HOST VIENNA CONFERENCE AGAINST RACISM, XENOPHOBIA AND DISCRIMINATION

VIENNA, 29 August 2003 - Around 300 delegates from 55 participating States and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are expected to take part in an international conference on combating racism, xenophobia and discrimination, arranged by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe on 4 and 5 September.

The conference, at the Hofburg Congress Centre, Vienna, will address racism, xenophobia and discrimination and its manifestations in Europe, Central Asia and North America, and the role of governments and civil society in promoting greater tolerance.

Following a welcome to participants by Austria's Foreign Minister, Benita Ferrero-Waldner, the conference is due to be addressed by a number of speakers who include: United Nations goodwill ambassador, Sir Peter Ustinov; Grand Mufti of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Dr Mustafa Ceric, Reisu-l-Ulema; Canadian Minister for Multi-culturalism, Jean Augustine; German Minister of State at the Foreign Ministry, Kerstin Mueller; President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, Bruce George MP, and Former US Congressman J. C. Watts.

Media representatives are invited to attend all sessions of the conference on both days (the first day starts at 9.00 a.m.). Live video of the speakers will be supplied to the press working area.

Admission for OSCE-accredited journalists is on production of the press pass. Non-accredited media need to show a valid press card. Advance accreditation is recommended for non-OSCE regulars. Details of how to obtain accreditation can be found on the OSCE website, along with information on the conference, its schedule and speeches (as available).

Free parking for media attending the conference will be available in the designated OSCE parking area of the Heldenplatz car park from 8.30 a.m.. Cards must be obtained at the security desk in the OSCE entrance lobby and displayed in the vehicle.

Keith Jinks, Deputy Head Press and Public Information Section, OSCE Permanent Council Secretariat, Kärntner Ring 5-7 1010, Vienna, Austria. Tel.: +43-1 514 36 180, +43-664 544 6207 (mobile). Fax: +43-1 514 36 105. E-mail: [email protected]

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(Distributed by the Bureau of International Information Programs, U.S. Department of State. Web site: http://usinfo.state.gov)

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