Dear Participants,

In 2008 we launched an important interdisciplinary approach: a student conference discussing the ever-current topics of our era. 

The theme of this year's conference is Balkans: Re-loaded, which stems from the concept of the original European Capital of Culture application of the city of Pécs. The geopolitical area of the Balkans is unique and at the same time very multicultural. In 2010 Pécs may become the first European Capital of Culture to open a gateway to the rich multiculturalism of the Balkans, including its Islamic heritage. During the conference and festival we will be discussing what a “Balkans identity” is or whether it even exists.

How does today's youth reflect the national identities in relation to a possible “Balkans identity”? How does the youth view the future of the area? The formation process of the Balkan nations is important from the viewpoint of democracy. Keeping this in mind we have invited lecturers also from other counties and continents to share their views and experiences on the democracy development in practice.

I wish all of you take an active part in exchanging views and learning from each other, and naturally, in enjoying the time being together! To achieve this we provide you with numerous cultural programmes as well, as long as Balkans: Re-loaded is connected with one of the most popular student events of our region, the International Culture Week in Pécs.

I wish you a great time in the city and at Hungary’s first university, the University of Pécs!

Yours,

István Tarrósy, Ph.D.

chairman of SIEN Foundation

assistant professor, University of Pécs, Department of Political Studies