Newsletter no. 7 - June 2004

1. Funding Opportunities

2. Announcements and Upcoming Events

3. Useful Links

Network Of East-West Women and the Bulgarian Gender Research Foundation - Women's Human Rights Training Institute
Application deadline: June 15, 2004


To goal of the Institute is to strengthen the ability of lawyers from Central and Eastern Europe and the Newly Independent States (CEE/NIS) to litigate women's human rights cases at the national, regional and international levels through the development of feminist legal analysis and litigation skills, cross-border cooperation, and networking

The project is a two-year, four-part series of workshops bringing together the same group of fifteen participants over the course of the training. Through both technical workshop sessions on the European Court of Human Rights, European Court of Justice, and United Nations enforcement mechanisms, as well as substantive training sessions on violence against women, sexual and reproductive health and rights, and employment discrimination, the Institute will build the needed analysis, skills and networks among feminist lawyers in CEE/NIS required to successfully seek justice for women in various legal arenas.

Eligibility:
Applications will be accepted from lawyers from any country in CEE/NIS. A total of 15 participants will be selected.
Successful applicants will have:
- Law degree.
- A demonstrated commitment to feminist jurisprudence and to using the law creatively to secure redress for women's rights violations.
- A professional relationship with an institution or NGO for at least one year prior to applying for participation in the Institute, preferably with an NGO or institution that focuses on women's human rights and that has the capacity to litigate cases on women's rights issues or that has experience with litigation.
- Theoretical knowledge about international and regional human rights legal systems and enforcement mechanisms.
- Fluency in spoken and written English, and advanced English language comprehension.

Stipend:
Institute participants will receive small stipends during the project period to support their inter-session litigation activities.
Participant travel, accommodation and per diem costs for participation in each Institute workshop session will be covered.

More information:
Website: www.bgrf.org
Email: tsteodora@hotmail.com (Teodora Tsanovska, Project Manager), bgrf@fastbg.net (Bulgarian Gender Research Foundation)


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STEP beyond: the ECF's Mobility Fund
Application deadline: eight weeks before the travel date at the latest (between the 1st and 31st of August, the ECF will not be able to process applications)


Launched in February 2003, this mobility scheme encourages cross-border cultural cooperation and exchange between all European countries, including those that are not currently members of the European Union. Specifically, it offers grants to people (individuals or those representing an organisation) whose travel would contribute to the goal of cross-cultural cooperation.

Why this type of fund now?
The European Union has gained ten new members. In its eastward enlargement, the EU gained new borders and therefore new neighbouring states. Countries and cultures that were previously felt to be 'far away' are more present in the lives of current and future EU citizens, as well as in the lives of the 'new neighbours'.

The ECF therefore wishes to strengthen cultural ties between those European countries that are not currently members of the EU and the present European Union countries. Supporting individual mobility in the setting-up phase of cultural and artistic initiatives is one means of strengthening such ties.

What kind of initiatives does the European Cultural Foundation support?
The ECF mobility fund, STEP beyond (Supporting Travel for European Projects) encourages travel that is guided by the following principles:
- Stimulating travel between the countries of the enlarged European Union and non-EU European countries.
- Supporting individuals in the DEVELOPMENTAL phase of new cross-border projects in the field of culture and the arts.
- Allowing the individuals and cultural partners involved to initiate real cooperation and possibly enter a long-term partnership.
- Giving preference to exploration eastwards in order to emphasize that Europe continues beyond the eastern borders of the European Union.

Who can apply?
- Arts professionals
- Cultural operators
- Cultural journalists
- Cultural translators
- Cultural researchers

S.T.E.P. beyond will not contribute towards the costs of:
- Participation in festivals, conferences, summer schools or training sessions
- The showcasing of work or the staging of productions
- Student or University exchanges
- Government officials

What costs are covered?
The STEP beyond fund will make a contribution to travel costs, visa costs, and, in certain cases, accommodation costs of those awarded a grant. It is an asset if the host organization could support the accommodation costs.

What countries can you travel to and from?
In order to facilitate the functioning of the fund as well as to reach its aims, the organisers have divided the larger pan-European area into different areas. Their work is focused with the following groups of countries:
Group A (The countries that are not currently members of the EU): Albania, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Kosovo, Macedonia, Moldova, Romania, Russia, Serbia and Montenegro, and Ukraine.
Group B (The countries that joined the EU in 2004): Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia.
Group C (The countries that joined the EU before 2004 - plus Iceland, Norway and Switzerland): Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

The Fund will consider applications that encourage initiatives that correspond with one of the following types of travel:
A) Exploring parts of the cultural sector: EXPLORATION TRAVEL:
The reason for travel must be to explore specific parts of the cultural sector relevant to the applicant's professional development and/or lead to the sharing of their acquired knowledge upon returning.
B) Preparatory visit on invitation of a cultural NGO: COOPERATION TRAVEL:
The travel should be based on an invitation of a cultural NGO (non-governmental organisation), in order to prepare a collaborative cultural or artistic project. The applicant must be able to provide a letter from the NGO confirming the invitation.
C) First visit of a cultural network meeting (in line with the ECF's special focus on European trans-national networks): NETWORKING
The reason for travel should be to visit a European cultural network meeting, relevant to the applicant's profession, for the first time.

More information:
Email: lschuitmaker@eurocult.org (Ms Lieke Schuitmaker)


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The World Bank - The Youth Voice Group


The World Bank invites young people (15-25) to submit applications to become members of the Youth Voice (YV) group.
The Youth Voice initiative is part of the larger World Bank effort to engage young people in a dialogue on development priorities. The World Bank is launching this initiative in several countries in Europe and Central Asia, as well as in other regions of the world.

The World Bank would like to select a group of up to ten young people to become members of this initiative. Initially, selected members will participate in this initiative for approximately 6 months (until December 31, 2004), with the possibility to participate for an additional 6 months.

Requirements:
- Age: preferably between the ages of 15-25
- A passion/interest in discussing and analyzing issues of concern to young people in your country
- Language: English language preferred, but not required
- Basic knowledge in operating a computer and in Internet access
- Commitment to dedicate some time to this initiative
- Ability to work in a team with people who may have different ideas from yours
- Ability to work under time pressure
- Critical thinking, responsibility, creativity.

More information
Website: http://www.worldbank.org.ba


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The Mental Disability Advocacy Center - Seeks Summer Interns


The Mental Disability Advocacy Center (MDAC), an international NGO based in Budapest, promotes and protects the human rights of people with mental health problems and intellectual disabilities across central and eastern Europe and central Asia. MDAC carries out litigation, research and international advocacy and has participatory status at the Council of Europe. Is a cooperating organization of the International Helsinki Federation for Human Rights. For more information, see www.mdac.info

MDAC is seeking unpaid interns (from 2 weeks to 6 weeks) to assist in research of a number of human rights issues pertinent to people with mental disabilities. Examples of projects which could be undertaken are:
-Research on the draft UN Disability Convention
-Research on non-discrimination laws pertinent to MDAC target countries
-Research on non-discrimination laws in MDAC target countries
-Research on right to health and link to disability rights
-Research on housing issues for people with mental disabilities
-Research on property rights for people with mental disabilities
-Research on litigation uses under the European Social Charter
-Research on segregated education for children with intellectual disabilities (especially Roma)

Qualifications:
-Current undergraduate or graduate student (or recent graduate) in law, social work, social policy or other related fields
-Fluency in written and spoken English
-Strong interpersonal communication and problem solving skills
-Ability to set priorities and carry out tasks on own initiative
-Skills, aptitude and interest in the use of information technology
-Attentive to detail; concern for efficiency
-Thrives in a high-pressured work environment.

Please note, MDAC cannot pay for travel or living expenses.

More information
Website: www.mdac.info
Email: mdac@mdac.info


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Roman Herzog Research Fellowship


The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (AvH) and the non-profit Hertie Foundation (GHS) in Frankfurt-on-Main enable young highly qualified scholars with outstanding leadership qualities in research and teaching from central and south-east Europe (including the Baltic States) to carry out research projects of their own choice in Germany (age limit: 35 years). Applications may be submitted for long-term research stays of between 6 and 12 months. Short-term study tours, participation in conferences or educational visits cannot be funded.

Applications may be submitted for long-term research stays of between 6 and 12 months; short-term study tours or participation in conferences cannot be founded.

Research fellowships are offered on a regional competitive basis. Scholars from the following states may apply:
Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Poland, Romania, Serbia and Montenegro, Slovenia, the Slovak Republic, the Czech Republic.
There are no quotas in respect of either country or academic discipline. Applications from the fields of law, economics and social sciences are particularly welcome since fellowships shall contribute to the further development of scientific policy in the home country. 12 research fellowships are available per annum.

Assessment and decisions are based primarily on the quality and feasibility of research projects proposed by candidates as well as their (international) publications (including doctoral thesis). Research projects and German hosts are selected by applicants themselves. Details of research projects and schedules must be agreed between applicants and proposed hosts prior to submission of applications. Applications for extension of research stays already commenced in Germany cannot be considered.

One of the hallmarks of the AvH is to give guest-researchers as much individual assistance as possible. In addition to monthly research fellowships of between EUR 1,600 and EUR 2,100, the Foundation offers further sponsorship schemes. Apart from the general functions and assistance listed below, further individual grants and allowances may be accorded on application.
Such assistance is available only to research fellows sponsored by the Foundation during initial sponsorship in Germany.

Language fellowship / German language courses, Introductory meeting, Annual meeting, Study tour, Europe Research Fellowship, Grants towards the participation in conferences, Extension of Research Fellowship.

More information
E-mail: herzog.select@avh.de, sponsor@avh.de


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The National Endowment for Democracy - Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellows Program


The National Endowment for Democracy (NED) is pleased to announce the establishment of the Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellows Program. Named in honor of the two principal founders of NED, former president Ronald Reagan and the late congressman Dante Fascell, the program enables democracy activists, practitioners, scholars, and journalists from around the world to deepen their understanding of democracy and enhance their ability to promote democratic change.

Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellows maintain full-time residence at the International Forum for Democratic Studies (the Forum), the research arm of the Endowment, located in Washington, D.C. The Forum hosts 12 to 15 Reagan-Fascell fellows per year for periods ranging from three to ten months. The program offers two tracks, a practitioner track and a scholarly track.

The Practitioner Track
The Reagan-Fascell program was established primarily to support democratic activists, human rights advocates, journalists, and others who work on the front lines of democracy promotion in emerging and aspiring democracies. The program seeks to provide experienced activists with an opportunity to reflect on their work, learn from counterparts in the United States, and reevaluate techniques for building democracy in their country of origin. Fellowships on the practitioner track tend to be short-term (3 to 5 months), typically culminating in a strategy memorandum, short article or op-ed and a presentation of the fellow s analysis and ideas.

The Scholarly Track
Recognizing the importance of intellectual contributions to the theory and practice of democracy, the Reagan-Fascell program offers a scholarly track principally for professors and researchers from emerging and aspiring democracies. Accomplished scholars from established democracies are also eligible to apply. Applicants are expected to possess a Ph.D., or academic equivalent, at the time of application, and to have developed a rigorous research outline. During their stay at the Forum, which can range from 3 to 10 months, scholars make at least one presentation and complete a substantial piece of writing (a monograph or book) for publication.

Facilities and Services
Each fellow receives a monthly stipend for living expenses, plus health insurance and reimbursement for travel to and from Washington, D.C., at the beginning and end of the fellowship period. Fellows also receive a fully equipped office and support services, including access to the Forum s Democracy Resource Center and Library.
While in residence at the Forum, fellows have the opportunity to interact with staff and other visiting scholars and activists in the collegial environment at NED, and with the policy, media, and academic communities in Washington, D.C. Fellows are encouraged to consult with counterparts in the United States, and to participate in the many conferences and seminars held at NED and at the various universities, think tanks, and nongovernmental organizations in the metropolitan area.

Eligibility:
The Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellows Program is intended primarily for citizens of new and aspiring democracies.
Practitioner Track: While there are no specific degree requirements for applicants selecting the practitioner track, candidates interested in this track are expected to have substantial practical experience working on behalf of some aspect of democracy building-such as human rights advocacy, political party activism, voter education, election monitoring, journalism and press freedom, ethnic pluralism, civic education, etc.

Scholarly Track: Individuals interested in the scholarly track are expected to possess a Ph.D. or academic equivalent at the time of application, to have published in their field of expertise, and to have developed a detailed research outline for their fellowship project. While the scholarly track is intended primarily for accomplished or promising scholars from new and emerging democracies, distinguished scholars from the United States and other established democracies are also eligible to apply. Examples of eligible candidates for the scholarly track include college and university professors, scholars, analysts at research centers and "think tanks," and independent writers.

More information
Website: http://www.ned.org/forum/reagan-fascell.html


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University of London, Goldsmiths College - MA in International Studies, 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time


At the centre of global politics today are new challenges to enduring problems: the need to achieve security amid new forms of conflict, the reform of international organisations, the plight of refugees, human rights and humanitarian intervention, instability and developmental concerns, the lives of women, and the global environment. The events of 9/11, the war in Afghanistan and Iraq, the East Timor and the Balkan crisis, conflict and change in Africa, the role of NGOs, highlight the manner in which globalisation effects us all.

Our new MA in International Studies provides you with an opportunity to explore the character of the contemporary world in an interdisciplinary manner drawing upon a strong theoretical basis as well as an empirical grounding. The programme aims to promote independent critical and evaluative skills as well as intellectual curiosity. It will expand your knowledge and understanding of the underlying issues in international politics.

Admissions criteria
You should preferably have a good undergraduate degree in a relevant subject. However, we are committed to a strategy of widening participation at all levels of study; we welcome applications from those who have substantial relevant work experience, but who lack formal qualifications. In such cases, entry is by interview and the submission of an essay on a given topic. Please contact us if you would like informal advice before submitting your application.

The MA offers valuable training and analytical skills for those working in international corporations, teaching, non-governmental organisations, the United Nations, International Organisations, diplomatic services, defence and other areas of government. The MA is likely to prove especially attractive to those who have a passionate interest in world politics and international relations and who are considering further study at the PhD level, and to those who work in areas - journalism for example- where an understanding of international politics is essential.

More information
Website: http://www.goldsmiths.ac.uk/departments/politics/MA-International-Studies.php
Email: p.ahluwalia@gold.ac.uk (Professor Pal Ahluwalia)


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University of Pristina and Academic Training Association - Pristina Summer University 2004


The University of Pristina and the Academic Training Association are organising the 4th Pristina Summer University to be held from 12 to 30 July 2004 in Pristina, UNMIK AP Kosovo, Serbia and Montenegro.

The programme will bring together regional and international professors and lecturers for a period of three weeks and will provide about 35 courses and workshops in the field of humanities, law, economics, social sciences, arts, medicine and natural sciences. In addition, public discussions, lectures etc. will be organised on prominent issues in Kosovar and South East European society. Recreational events and excursions will also be organised for students and staff.

750 participants will be accepted at the Pristina Summer University 2004, of which 450 from UNMIK AP Kosovo, 100 participants from South East Europe and 50 self-financing international students.

More information
Website: http://www.academictraining.org


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London School of Technology and Management - East London and Sunderland Degree Programs


Applications from interested Balkan citizens are invited for the following East London and Sunderland university degree programs conducted at London School of Technology and Management:

Masters degree
- Business Administration (MBA)
- Business Information Technology
- Accounting and Finance
- Marketing
- E-Commerce
- International Management
- Human Resource Management
- Project Management and Consultancy
- MBA General
- Internet Engineering
- Computer System Engineering
Duration: 1 Year
Cost: 3.950 GBP

Bachelor's degree
- International Business Administration
- Applied Computing
- Business Studies
- Computer Studies
Duration: 2 Years
Cost: 6.950 GBP

These programmes allow you to work and study in the UK at the same time as well as pay tuition fees in installments.

More information
Website: www.stmlondon.co.uk


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Sofia University - MA Programmes, Bulgaria


The following MA programmes have recently been advertised by Sofia University and advertised throughout Eastern Europe for interested participants.

1. MA in Ethnicity and National Relations in the Balkans
This MA programme will put political events of recent Balkan history in the context of the centuries-long history of the relations between the different ethnic groups living within this region. It explores the concept of ethnic relations in both theory and practice. A full-time student will complete this degree in one year. A part-time student will spread the degree over two years.

2. MA in Power, Authority and Culture in South Eastern Europe
This programme will review power and authority structures within SEE and look at European Union projects connected with this.

More information
Email: dolnouino@lycos.com


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Innovative Strategies in International Cultural Cooperation, August 19 - 21, 2004, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Application deadline: July 20 (for scholarships), August 2


In association with the Felix Meritis Foundation, and financially supported by the Social Transformation Programme Central and Eastern Europe (Matra) of the the Netherlands.

This course examines models, preconditions and parameters for developing productive forms of international cooperation in a bilateral and multilateral frame, taking into account the roles of public authorities, private foundations, and commercial sponsors. The first day will be spent taking an intensive look at the participants' individual situations, the challenges that each one faces, and the common problems and possible solutions that confront the collective group. An inventory will be made of the key issues and these issues will be questioned and analysed in addition to some common trends which have been observed by the two course leaders. The second day will be spent looking at the subjects of policy, funding, entrepreneurship, and networking, taking advantage of the experience of professionals in the field. Opportunity will be given to ask questions and make comments. On the third day, the concepts and experiences of the previous two days will be applied to three case studies taken from the group. During the morning session, the groups will be asked to analyse and develop the case studies, and in the afternoon these will be presented. Participants will leave with access to the latest information on trends and working methods, and insights which can be directly applied own situations.

Each participant will be asked to complete a questionnaire about their own project or organisation, including the problems, advantages, and goals of the individual and organisation. This questionnaire will be mailed in before the course will begin and will ensure that the course leaders also have a chance to analyse the needs of the group. The participants will also each give a 8-minute presentation about their project or organisation on the first day. Full participation is expected in all of the sessions. In addition, a reader will be distributed at the registration.

The course is designed for cultural operators, civil servants, artists, and foundation staff members. The course is limited to a maximum of 25 participants.

Course fee: 650 Euro- includes registration, reader, access to all the sessions, lunches and coffee, as well access to the cultural programme of The Amsterdam-Maastricht Summer University.

A limited number of scholarships are available for students from most Central and Eastern European Countries and Turkey and are financially supported by the Social Transformation Programme Cental and Eastern Europe (MATRA) of the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These scholarships cover course fee and accommodation but do not cover any travel expenses to the Netherlands.

More information
Website: http://www.amsu.edu/courses/cultural/artm12004.htm
Email: alanahenry@fastmail.fm (Alana Henry), office@amsu.edu (Office Manager)


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Open Society Institute - Local Government and Public Service Reform Initiative (LGI) - Policy Fellowship 2004/2005, Budapest, Hungary
Application deadline: June 25, 2004


I. Purpose
The LGI Fellowship program is about fostering positive governmental reform. Each year LGI selects talented professionals to participate in its one-year multinational Fellowship program. Fellows work in small teams under the guidance of a well-respected mentor to produce analytical, policy oriented studies on a given topic. The mentors help build the capacity of the LGI policy analysts and experts.
LGI Fellows produce high quality studies presenting policy options and recommendations geared towards the policy-making community in their respective countries. LGI provides its Fellows training in how to write effective, concise, fact-based, practical policy reports. Other training modules LGI offers its Fellows are public speaking and presentation skills and advocacy methods. At the conclusion of the program LGI works with its Fellows to determine what steps it can take to support the proposed recommendations in the completed studies.

II. The project
The primary goal of the LGI Policy Fellowship program is to support policy research aimed at stimulating innovative and practical policy reform related to various areas of governance and the provision of public services. Each year broad topics are identified for candidates from different country groups. LGI is currently calling for Fellows for its 2004/2005 program, which will run from October 2004 to October 2005. For more background information about the fellowship program see: http://lgi.osi.hu/fellowship/
This year LGI is featuring two topics:
Topic 1: 'Subnational Budget Watch'
Topic 2: 'The EU's Wider European Neighbourhood Initiative: Ensuring the free movement of people, goods, services, and capital'

III. Fellowship topics for 2004/5
Topic 1: 'Subnational Budget Watch'
Target Fellows:
Policy researchers, especially those connected to prominent policy institutes
Members of advocacy-oriented professional associations
Governmental auditor-generals
Media members focussed on budget oversight
Applications will be accepted from South Eastern Europe, the NIS States and Mongolia.

Topic 2: 'The EU's Wider European Neighbourhood Initiative: Ensuring the free movement of people, goods, services, and capital'
Target Fellows:
Policy researchers, especially those connected to prominent policy institutes
Members of advocacy-oriented professional associations
Select civil servants.
Applications will be accepted from, Ukraine, Moldova, Russia, Belarus, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia.

IV. Methods and procedures
Grant
LGI will award successful applicants with a stipend for a period of 10 months between October 2004 and July 2005. The stipend will cover monthly expenses related to research and travel costs. Additional funds will cover costs related to attending three international workshops, at least two of which will take place in Budapest, Hungary.

Eligibility
Descriptions of ideal applicants follow each topic being offered. Fellows are normally civil servants, members of advocacy groups or professional associations, policy researchers and policy advisers. A graduate degree or equivalent is required. Applicants should be citizens of the countries noted under each topic. As a rule, Fellows will be based in their home countries and will be required to attend three international Fellowship workshops. Fellows are expected to continue with their current employment, spending only up to fifty percent of their time on the Fellowship program.
*Please note that LGI looks favorably upon applicants who can demonstrate in their application that they have secured practical institutional support from a reputable policy center or similar institution.

More information
Website: http://lgi.osi.hu/
Email: lgprog@osi.hu


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Tradition and Future: European Youth in the Integration Process, August 1 - 15, 2004, Istanbul/Gaziantep/Antakya, Turkey
Application deadline: June 25, 2004


Bogazici genclik dernegi is looking for participants for the project: 'Tradition and future: European youth in the integration process' in Istanbul - Gaziantep - Antakya

Supported by: The programme 'YOUTH' of the European Commission and Turkish National Agency as ACTION-1.

Project theme:
The theme of the project is based on 'Gap between modernity and tradition from the youth perspective in the context of EU enlargement& integration'. Young people have spent most of their lives witnessing the last two decades of fast transformation in Europe even perceiving the transformation as normal and stable. So, this program is aiming to lead young people to reinterpret the social and cultural transformations, question new&old ideas, coexistance of modernity&tradition, discuss ideas on how modernity is changing and influencing us, think on what new roles they will choose in newly emerging social structures.
Ultimately the project would lead to awareness of the European culture and make young people feel safer when interacting with this culture. As an example, such a project can bring improvements to the present situation when young people come to decide on tricky issues like 'Migration and integration of cultures'. The clash of 'integration of cultures and preservation of local cultures' arguments would lead to discuss on how to realize a multicultural Europe.
Practical implications of such a project would be, of course for the participants to decide for themselves. What we intend to work on is getting young people acquainted with the approaches to deal with cultural issues such as the relation between tradition and modernity.

Objectives:
-Raising youth awareness on the general gap between modernity and tradition regarding the future enlargement of EU is the main objective of the project.
-Promoting youth with skills to face this gap more openly and to understand it's positive and negative character as a European challenge but not as a burden.
-Providing a non-formal education training and intercultural learning in order to deepen the insights and enhance the qualifications of the participants.

Working methods:
1.Presentation- Discussion panels
2.Non-formal education techniques and field work
3.Learning through experience
4.Learning through direct exchange

Participating countries: Germany: 8, Romania: 8, Greece: 8, Turkey: 10 participants

Participation fee: Bogazici Genclik Dernegi will cover all the expenses of the project (travel, accommodation, meals, seminar expenses). The participation fees are: Romania: 100 euro, Germany: 200 euro, Greece: 150 euro, Turkey: 50 euro.

Who can apply?
•participants must be not older than 25 years
•willingness for:
- preparation and presentation of a paper
- active participation in the project activities
- preparation of an experience letter at the end of the program.

If you are interested, send your cv, motivation letter and essay (one page on the topics determined in the project theme).

More information
Website: www.bosporus.org
Email: turkey@bosporus.org


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Partnerships for Tomorrow Program
Application deadline: 28th of each month


The Partnerships for Tomorrow Program Phase II, funded by the Canadian International Development Agency and administered by the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada, is a small travel grant mechanism designed to contribute to the democratic and economic reform process in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe.

The program supports small projects, up to a maximum of $10,000, which aim to build and strengthen partnerships and linkages between Canadians and citizens of Central and European countries. These long term relationships will facilitate the capacity development of individuals and institutions in the Central and Eastern European region while developing Canadian expertise in working with Central and Eastern European countries.

The program will cover the cost of international travel for Canadian and Central and Eastern European travellers. All travellers are eligible for the cost of international economy airfare, a per diem that covers a portion of the cost of accommodations and meals, and local travel (inter-city travel only), to a maximum of $10,000 per project.

The program is open to participants from all sectors including Canadian and Central and Eastern European institutions, educational institutions, non governmental organizations, professionals, businesses, individuals, youth and government (excluding the Canadian federal government). All activities must have a capacity building component and must be compatible with CIDA's programming priorities.

Due to the high demand and limited funds available, not all applications submitted will be approved. Funds will be awarded based on a set of criteria that will enable recipients to actively participate in the following types of activities:
* institutional linkages
* workshops and conferences
* sector specific training
* professional exchanges
* study tours and
* short-term consultancies.

There must be 60 days between the end of the month in which the application is submitted to AUCC, and the start date of the project. For example, for a project planned to take place in June, the application must be submitted to AUCC by March 28th.

More information
Website: http://www.aucc.ca/ptp-ppa/index_e.html


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Balkan Youth Partnership Programme
Application deadlines: June 30, September 30


What is the Balkan Youth Partnership Programme?
The Balkan Youth Partnership Programme is a small grant scheme for study visits in the region designed for representatives from child- and youth-serving NGOs to share information and technical expertise.

Areas for exchange of learning
The key programmatic areas for information exchange and learning covered by the Partnership Programme are: employment, technology, non-formal education, health, civic education and democracy building. The areas of community service, culture and the environment are also eligible. In addition, technical areas such as fundraising, sustainability, grantmaking, monitoring and evaluation, and project planning are eligible areas for exchange.

Eligibility
The Partnership Programme is open to applicants from child- and youth-serving NGOs in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Kosovo, Macedonia, Montenegro, Romania and Serbia. The visits are eligible in those countries.
Applicants should be possess a certain level of experience in programme development and be in a position to influence programming in their own organisation based on what they learn during the exchange. The applicant organisation should send no more than two participants.

Available funding
The Partnership Programme will provide successful applicants with funding for the following up to a maximum of USD1500:
-Accommodation
-Meals
-Travel between the countries
-Travel within the countries
-Purchase of relevant publications
In addition, the Programme will fund the administrative costs of the host organisation up to a maximum of USD300, according to the length of the visit and the level of organisation required.

Visit Guidelines
Prior to applying, applicants should contact the organisation with which they wish to work and ensure that there is mutual interest in the exchange. In addition, they should agree on the purpose of the exchange, identify objectives, determine an appropriate length of time and jointly develop a visit schedule. Exchanges need not be reciprocal. Visits should last for up to 7 days, excluding travel time.

Assessment of Applications
Applications will be assessed according to the following criteria:
-Clearly articulated outcomes showing how the exchange will strengthen the programmatic and/or technical capacity of the applicant organisation.
-Possibility that the exchange outcomes will positively influence the children and youth sector as a whole in the applicant's country.
-A well thought out, appropriate visit schedule.
-A clearly presented, reasonable budget.
-Appropriateness of the background and position of the individual applicants.

More information
E-mail: ljupka@balkanyouth.org (Ljupka Nikolovska, Program Assistant)


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Joint European Master in Comparative Local Developmen for the Balkans and Areas in Transformation
Application deadline: June 30, 2004


We are pleased to inform you that on April the 24th, 2004 the University of Trento signed an agreement with the University of Regensburg, Budapest University of Economic Sciences and Public Administration and the University of Ljubljana. With this agreement the Master on Local Development for the Balkans became a cooperation among the above listed Universities and given these premises also changed, improved its contents. The selection process for the Joint European Master in Comparative Local Developmen for the Balkans and Areas in Transformation is open.

The programme offers 18 months (95 ECTS) of training for a post-graduate Master's degree. Its main objective is to provide participants with the necessary knowledge and skills for introducing, supporting and co-ordinating processes of change and transformation at the local level. The focus of the programme is local development, with the following characteristics: public, private and non-governmental agents are involved; social stability and economic prosperity are strengthened, in agreement with the acquis communautaire/ standards in European/EC law. The general approach is comparative and interdisciplinary.

The Master's programme includes courses in economics, law, sociology and political sciences, project cycle management, workshops, skills training, internships, language courses, and distance learning. Most of the courses are taught at the University of Trento by professors of the University of Trento and partner Universities, and by international experts. Some courses are taught at one or more of the partner universities. Given the focus on local development, most of the internships and other activities will take place in local organisations located in Italy and in the countries of partner universities.

Attendance is limited to 25 participants. Candidates have to comply with all of the following requirements:
1. A four-year (minimum) university degree in economics, law, political science, sociology, or an equivalent qualification
2. Age: under 40
3. Fluent English and computer literacy.

A limited number of scholarships for participants from South-East Europe and other countries is provided by the organisers.

More information
Website: http://www.unitn.it/didattica/formazione_post/master_balcani.htm


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Support to the national strategy to improve Roma conditions - health
Application deadline: July 15, 2004


Budget (EURO): 652,000.00
Programme Objectives:
To enhance and facilitate active participation of Roma communities in the economic, social, educational, cultural and political life of the Romanian society and to improve accessibility to health services.

Specific Objectives:
1. To stimulate development of comprehensive approaches to improve the health situation of Roma communities with focus on the active participation of the members of the Roma community.
2. To support the assuming of responsibility by the public administration for the improvement of the situation of Roma and to develop equitable and sustainable partnerships between Roma communities and health institutions at local and county level.
3. To promote complex community development projects in the area of health that can be used as best practices and implementation at a larger scale.

Eligible Activities:
The projects will have to approach the problem faced by Roma communities regarding the health situation in an integrated manner and will contain a set of measures to ensure the access to health services through awareness raising, mediation and health care for the members for the Roma communities.
These projects may contain a set of the following types of activities, without being limited to:
- Training courses for health mediators, in accordance with the methodology approved by the Ministry of Health.
- Health and hygiene promotion campaigns targeted at selected Roma communities through media, schools, and other relevant actors; including information on how to qualify for non contributory health insurance, the necessity to choose a family doctor etc.
- Registration campaigns with GPs.
- To establish health facilities/ health checkpoints for isolated communities in accordance with the requirements of the Ministry of Health. These health checkpoints will be the space where the permanent activity of the health mediators will take place. A physician will visit these communities at regular intervals and his/her activity will be closely monitored by the County Directorate for Health.
- Support for the rehabilitation of consulting rooms, can be taken into account as means of achieving access to health services for Roma communities but not as main activity in the project.

Who Can Apply:
Public institutions operating at county or local level with their headquarters in Romania. Applicants may act individually or in consortium with partner organisations: non-governmental organisation (associations or foundations) - may be Roma non-governmental organization or non-Roma non-governmental organization (a Roma NGO is defined as one set-up with mission for improvement of Roma situation, having a Roma constituency and leadership).

More information
Website: http://www.romacenter.ro
Email address: info@romacenter.osf.ro


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Bulgarian-Romanian Interuniversity Europe Centre - MA Programme, MA in International Business Informatics and European Studies, Ruse, Bulgaria and Giurgiu, Romania
Application deadline: July 16, 2004


The 4-semester postgraduate programme (with one semester at German universities or internship in enterprises in Germany) will start in October 2004 at the Bulgarian-Romanian Interuniversity Europe Centre (BRIE) in Ruse (BG) and Giurgiu (RO) for the third time. All courses are offered in English and German by international professors. Summer schools cover the latest developments in the European Union and Economics. A limited number of scholarships are provided for students from SEE.

The interdisciplinary content of the programmes is designed according to the up-to-date requirements of the European higher education area to fit the competences of the European Affairs Professional and Business Informatics Professional. The degree holders have excellent career prospects Europe wide both at the public and the private sector.

The programme is sponsored by the German Foreign Office in the framework of the "Stability Pact for SEE" and private foundations and companies via the German Rectors' Conference (www.hrk.de).

Application requirements minimum:
*Bachelor Degree in Social Sciences or Law (for European Studies) or
*Bachelor Degree in Economics, Informatics or Mathematics (for
Business Informatics)
*good knowledge of English as prerequisite and at least intermediate
knowledge of German
*letter of recommendation from a university professor
*letter of motivation for studying at BRIE.

Both programmes are in the process of accreditation by the German accreditation agency ACQUIN ( www.acquin.org). Results are expected for October 2004 (European Studies) and March 2005 (International Business Informatics). Successful accreditation will lead to an additional Master diploma from a German university.

More information
Website: www.brie.ru.acad.bg
Email: micovic@hrk.de (Brankica Micovic, M.A.)


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Support to the national strategy to improve Roma conditions in the field of small infrastructure and housing
Application deadline: August 17, 2004


Budget (EURO): 2,000,000.00
Programme Objectives:
To improve Roma conditions' is to enhance and facilitate active participation of Roma communities in the economic, social, educational, cultural and political life of the Romanian society and to improve accessibility to health services.

Specific Objectives:
1. To stimulate development of comprehensive approaches to improve the access of the Roma communities to a decent level of local infrastructure, including running water, access roads for the local community, electricity, gas etc, with focus on the active participation of the members of the Roma community.
2. To promote sustainable community development projects in the area of rehabilitation and/or building of social houses that can be used as best practices and implementation at a larger scale.
3. To support the assuming of responsibility by the public administration for the improvement of the situation of Roma and to develop equitable and sustainable partnerships between Roma communities and public administration at local and county level.
Priorities for the small infrastructure and housing component:
- projects addressed to a large number of beneficiaries compared to number of Roma population in the target community
- project that ensure employment opportunities for the members of the target community during the implementation of the project activities.

Eligible Activities:
The grant scheme offered for investment support will consider activities in the following domains:
1. Small Infrastructure
Small infrastructure activities can include but may not be limited to:
- Introduction of supply, and/or connection to existing supply systems of water, gas, electricity
- Rehabilitation and/or construction of roads, culverts and small bridges that improve access of the members of the Roma community to the public services of the locality.
2. Rehabilitation and/or construction of social houses
Activities in this domain may include:
- rehabilitation of houses
- building of social houses

Who Can Apply:
Public institutions operating at county or local level with their headquarters in Romania. Applicants may act individually or in consortium with partner organisations: non-governmental organisation (associations or foundations) - may be Roma non-governmental organization