Themed "Germany and China – Moving Ahead Together" Germany will present itself for three years, from autumn 2007 to 2010, in different regional centres in China as an active commercial partner, a cultivated land rich in tradition and a modern education, research and investment place. It aims to demonstrate Germany in its entire spectrum as an innovative and attractive country with a rich tradition, to encourage the German-Chinese dialog and to foster the mutual interest. Hence the German weeks consist predominantly of German-Chinese joint projects. Central theme of all events in the framework of the integral concept developed by the Goethe Institute is the topic "Cities in Motion".
The United Nations General Assembly, on 17 December 2007, declared 2010 the International Year for the Rapprochement of Cultures (resolution 62/90). It recommended that events be organized on interreligious and intercultural dialogue, understanding and cooperation for peace during the year, including a high-level dialogue and/or informal interactive hearings with civil society. It also encouraged the promotion of dialogue among the media of all cultures and civilizations.
The European Commission campaign aims to reaffirm the EU's commitment to making a decisive impact on the eradication of poverty by 2010. The 2010 European Year aims to reach EU citizens and all public, social and economic stakeholders. Its objectives include: a recognition that people living in poverty and social exclusion have a right to live in dignity and to play a full part in society; a more cohesive society, where no one doubts that society as a whole benefits from the eradication of poverty; and a commitment by all actors in society, recognising that real progress requires a long-term effort involving all levels of governance.
Following on from the Year of Kazakhstan in Germany in 2009, now it is Germany’s turn to present itself in Kazakhstan. The aim is to provide insights into Germany in all its facets and build new bridges between people in both countries. There are three areas of major importance to both countries: environment and climate, education and society. The events being organised for the Year will include exhibitions and conferences, academic meetings on the theme of education, the promotion of German-language learning in Kazakhstan, and a cultural programme featuring both classical and contemporary art forms.
The German Year starts at January 18th in Vietnam to mark the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. The planned series of events – encompassing the cultural, education, scientific, economic, social and political sectors as well as development cooperation and sport – will reflect the wide range of German-Vietnamese relations.
The Leipzig Book Fair is the most important spring meeting place for the publishing and media sector and has evolved into an attractive hallmark both in Germany and across Europe. Held every March, it's a meeting point for publishers, writers, readers and journalists. An ideal communication platform, the Leipzig Book Fair provides extensive information about new publications as well as current and future trends in the German-speaking and European markets.
The theme of Expo 2010 is "Better City, Better Life," representing the common wish of the whole humankind for a better living in future urban environments.
The German Pavilion has been christened “balancity” – a newly coined word signifying a city in balance. Visitors to balancity will embark on a journey through a city of ideas, moving around as they would in a real city – on foot, moving walkways and escalators – through thematic areas representing different urban spaces. "Behind the Scenes" will showcase projects from the German art and culture scene.
Europe Week has been celebrated every May since 1994. The programme of events in each EU member state includes concerts, informational presentations and excursions. There are a number of areas of focus for this year’s Europe Week: “Overcoming Borders in Europe – Connecting People in Europe,” “More Participation in the EU through European Citizens’ Initiatives,” and “Considerate Europe – Against Poverty and Social Exclusion.” A highlight of Europe Week is the awarding of the annual Europe Prize, recognising outstanding efforts at promoting European unity. Each year a motto is chosen for the prize. This year it is: “New Impetus for Young and Old – Partnership Work in the EU.”
The United Nations General Assembly has proclaimed the year commencing on 12 August 2010 as the International Year of Youth: Dialogue and Mutual Understanding. The Year will coincide with the 25th anniversary of the first International Youth Year in 1985 on the theme Participation, Development and Peace. Highlights of the Year include the staging of the r 5th World Youth Congress on Youth and Development, to be held in Istanbul, Turkey from July 31-August 13, 2010; and the World Youth Conference, to be held in Mexico City, from August 23-28, 2010.
The aim of Manifesta 8 will be to engage with Europe's present-day boundaries with Northern Africa and its interrelations with the Maghreb region. The South of Spain, specifically Al-Andalus, has been a historical blend of Islamic, Judaic and Christian cultural influences co-existing together.
Curators: Alexandria Contemporary Arts Forum, Chamber of Public Secrets und Tranzit.org.
The artistic director for documenta 13 will be Carolyn Christov-Bakargiev. 2008 she curated the Sydney Biennial, 2001 she was jury member at the 49th Biennale di Venezia and she worked as curator at P.S . 1 , Contemporary Art Center in New York.
