PRESS RELEASE Learning Democracy On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the UNESCO Institute for Education education specialists from throughout the world met from 17 to 19 June 2002 to promote the development of democracy through lifelong learning From 17 to 19 June 2002, some 40 education specialists from throughout the world were in Hamburg to discuss how adult education can contribute to the democratisation of societies. Representatives of non-governmental organisations and governments exchanged experiences from different countries and contexts. On example of the challenge facing schools and educational institutions was drawn from Colombia, as that country seeks to move away from criminality and corruption and to adopt new values. Women education specialists from Iran and the Sudan reported on their work with women in societies where they are not expected to play an active part. A teacher from Bulgaria described the difficulties of teacher training in Balkan countries affected by mutual suspicion and intolerance. Other contributions came from South America, the USA, the Pacific Region and South Africa. In 1952, the first seminar of the UNESCO Institute for Education was concerned with "Adult Education as a Means of Developing and Strengthening Social and Political Responsibility". Today, on the 50th anniversary of the Institute, that topic is still very relevant. The participants came to the conclusion that education for adults is an absolute prerequisite if people living on the fringes of society or under totalitarian systems are to be encouraged to play a critical and active part in society. Contact: Maren Elfert UNESCO Institute for Education m.elfert@unesco.org Tel. 040/44 80 41-40