Optimism, co-operation and constructive exchange of information. This was the impression of the first Fresach-Day with Denk.Raum.Fresach President Hannes Swoboda on Monday. Several mayors and tourism professionals in the region, teachers, artists, and local residents took the opportunity to discuss the ideas and proposals until their heads were smoking. Eight hours, from 13.00 until 21.00 clock the talks lasted at the inn “Zum Wirt”. Everyone agreed that the inaugural event in 2015, the European Tolerance Talks, have reached their goal, namely to create awareness and highlight ways in which one can handle the problems of the time, Keyword: refugee crisis and migration. The subject for the 2016 talks are already fixed: “The borders of Europe – Human Rights and the consequences of Climate Change.” And this is as relevant as ever, in Europe as well as in Carinthia, and even in Fresach noticeably. Next year, local residents should be more involved in the discussions. A lot is to be expected especially on the commitment of teachers and schools. But also the possibility for private houses to accommodate great writers and scientists for a few days, finds a lively response. Many highly interesting speakers from all over Europe will come to Fresach to discuss the major challenges of the time at the round table. Thus, among others, the former German Federal Minister and Executive Director of the UN-Environment Programme, Prof. Klaus Töpfer, has already agreed to come. The anchoring and positioning of Fresach as Tolerance Center and Tolerance Forum on the European Knowledge Map is fortunately progressing, said the chairman of the Denk.Raum.Fresach, Manfred Sauer. Now it is a matter to ensure the sustainability of activities financially and technically. For this purpose, the Board of Directors will enhance its efforts in the coming weeks. It is also planned for the future, to organize a Tolerance Summer Camp for young people, with numerous international partners on board. (ws)
