Human Rights Award 2013

This year the Human Rights Award of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung pays tribute to the particular merits of the Non-governmental Organization "Center for Democracy and Reconciliation in Southeast Europe" (CDRSEE). Founded in 1998, the CDRSEE is committed to strengthening democratic and pluralist societies in Southeast Europe; European values and citizenship; market economies that operate within the framework of the rule of law and principles of social responsibility; social inclusion of disadvantaged groups; and reconciliation among the people of the region. 14 years ago, CDRSEE in the framework of the »Joint History Project« has launched a very ambitious plan in order not to re-tell the history of the region often referred to as »Balkan powder keg«, which is »producing more history than it can digest«, but to give students the opportunity to develop an independent access to the history of Southeast Europe with teachers support.

Thus, in addition to the four history textbooks, ranging from the »Ottoman Empire«, over »Nations and States in Southeast Europe«, and the »Balkan wars« to »World War II«, already a successful attempt has been made to convince political leaders in the countries of Southeast Europe about the need for a new way of conveying historical knowledge in order to overcome mutual stereotypes and prejudices.

Training programs for history teachers and the introduction of new approaches to teaching and textbooks in the curricula of many countries of the region show the success of this long-term commitment. At the same time the textbooks have been translated into ten regional languages. A revised edition appeared in 2012. So far, 1,400 teachers have participated in training programs, 1,600 more are to follow by 2014. Around half a million students, therefore the future generation, should in this way benefit from the new books and teaching methods. In addition, the regional cooperation of teachers and teacher associations is encouraged. Researchers, translators, publishers, students from across Southeast Europe are participating in the project.

Through their commitment, courage and the remarkable endurance they have demonstrated and continue to demonstrate till today, an important contribution to reconciliation between the countries of Southeast Europe was made. The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung wants to pay tribute to this outstanding performance by honoring CDRSEE with its Human Rights Award 2013.

The award ceremony will take place on October 28st, 2013, 16:00 h, at Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, Hiroshimastr. 17, 10785 Berlin. The laudation was held by Martin Schulz, MEP, President of the European Parliament.