Greek Chairmanship

Greece has taken over the Chairmanhip of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe from 15 May 2020 to 18 November 2020.

The semester of the Greek Chairmanship coincides with the anniversary of an important historical event: the completion of 70 years since the signing of the European Convention on Human Rights, which took place in Rome in 1950.

In this context, the Greek Chairmanship is planning a series of thematic events and activities -most of which are digital due to the conditions imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic- to promote Human Rights and ensure social cohesion.

The interactive artistic project Face Forward… into my home was chosen to be presented among the digital activities of the Greek Chairmaship.

The concept of equality -which is supported by the Greek Chairmanship- regardless of origin, religion, family and social status, age, gender, sexual orientation or any other criteria, is one of the basic principles on which Face Forward… into my home, both at the design stage and throughout its implementation and presentation, is based.

In addition, the fundamental principles and values that the Greek Chairmanhip aims to highlight, such as the protection of the rights of young people and groups of citizens who are characterized as vulnerable in order to be equally integrated in society, the need for collective and organized action against discrimination, racism, intolerance and hate speech, and the protection of human rights in general, are key objectives of the Face Forward… into my home project.

Face Forward… into my home not only facilitated access to art and culture for a group of people who at this stage of their lives, due to circumstances, visiting a museum was not a priority but gave them the opportunity to express themselves equally in a series of key social, political, personal and psychological issues that concern not only refugees but also every modern citizen. Moreover through a series of events and activities organized by EMST in the context of the exhibition that was organized through the project (educational programs, guided tours and meetings with the participating refugees themselves) highlighted the “human face” of the refugee issue and promoted intercultural dialogue, respect and mutual understanding, essential elements of a society of cohesion and solidarity.

Young participants’ thoughts and dreams for the future, in many cases unaccompanied minors, show that solidarity and the desire to contribute to society are common characteristics of every human being, even those who have been deprived of basic human rights.