Special
The Anna Lindh Foundation: The network that unites the Mediterranean by Marco Scarangella
History of the foundation
Throughout history, the Mediterranean Sea has always had the dual role of a barrier and a bridge between the peoples and cultures present on its coasts. The main challenge for this area has always been integrating the mosaic of different societies around this sea. In the 21st century, this has not changed; on the contrary, the increase of intolerance, radicalism and unequal living conditions among Mediterranean countries are among the most remarkable trials ever to be faced. The Anna Lindh Foundation fits into this complicated, but at the same time culturally rich context. This
ceptance and respect. Thus, it was decided to name the Foundation Anna Lindh, in honour of the Swedish Foreign Minister who was murdered in 2003. In fact, during her career, she promoted cooperation between peoples and called for respect for international laws and human rights.
Another symbolic decision taken by the mem-
ber countries was to locate the Foundation’s headquarters in Alexandria, Egypt, specifically in the Library of the city and the Swedish Institute. This makes it the first Euro-Mediterranean institution situated out of the EU.
Principles and objectives of the
institution was founded in November foundation 2004 and is the first to establish the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership, a political agreement The Foundation’s priority is to bring together made in 1995 between the European Union people and organisations from the two sides and Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, Israel, Syria and Turkey. The organisation was created by 37 member countries, who finance it with the help of the European Union.
The Anna Lindh Foundation, which has grown
over the years to the current 42 member states, was created to promote cultural, social and spiritual dialogue between the participating countries and encourage a spirit of mutual ac-
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Anna Lindh, when she was Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sweden, at the European Parliament in Strasbourg.
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