Managing Europe's increasing cultural diversity - rooted in the history of our continent and enhanced by globalisation - in a democratic manner has become a priority in recent years. The White Paper on Intercultural Dialogue - "Living together as equals in dignity", responds to an increasing demand to clarify how intercultural dialogue can enhance diversity while sustaining social cohesion. The White Paper that our common future depends on our ability to safeguard and develop human rights, as enshrined in the European Convention on Human Rights, democracy and the rule of law, and to promote mutual understanding and respect. It concludes that the intercultural approach offers a forward-looking model for the management of cultural diversity.

Modern societies are inconceivable as isolated and mono-cultural entities. The interaction of various cultures is not only a fact of life for most Europeans, it also enriches our societies. However, we also witness tensions between cultures. Intercultural dialogue is therefore one of the political priorities of the Council of Europe, as shown most prominently by the adoption of the White Paper "Living Together as Equals in Dignity" in May 2008. Higher education, by its history and contemporary practice, is a natural partner in and promoter of intercultural dialogue and understanding. Higher education institutions and campuses are themselves multicultural societies, and as such are the focus of the present volume. A second volume will examine the role of higher education in furthering intercultural dialogue and understanding in broader society.

Global Education is an area of policy, practice, research and educational advocacy. An umbrella term that encompasses a variety of educational commitments; it has become increasingly integrated into the thinking of relevant institutions. But it is not uncontested. With this book, GENE - Global Education Network Europe - marks ten years of work. The book explores key contemporary issues in Global Education: issues of national strategy and structure development, of engagement with education systems. It outlines challenges in research, practice, policy and conceptual development, through detailed accounts and analysis of national and international case studies. The book will be of use to policymakers, educationalists, researchers, and practitioners in the fields of education, international development, human rights and sustainability. GENE intends it as a contribution to the ongoing dialogue in this field, towards the day when all people in Europe - in partnership with all people globally - might have access to quality Global Education.