This is the first time the ECMI Team has compiled its project ideas for general dissemination. The aim with this publication is to share with the general public knowledge about the efforts in research and action that we find worthwhile pursuing in the next year.

We predict that 2011 will bring greater awareness about certain topics in minority research, such as indicators, diversity management and the Communist legacy, ethnic reconciliation and ethnic mobilization, language pluralism as well as minority social capital. The most interesting trends in minority research are promoted by the ongoing paradigm shift from studying minorities as objects to studying them as subjects. Of course, every research cluster strives to be a heart of its disciplines while also aiming at inter-disciplinarity. Moreover, many of our research efforts are cross-cluster thus ensuring the inter-disciplinary approach from the start. In addition, we always seek to design cross-cultural programmes where the topic is so hot that it is necessary, such as with our new Belarus Programme. But most important, all our research projects aim to culminate in recommendations for action. The overall ECMI effort is therefore rooted in the team-spirit that must define any modern, pro-active institution with the finger on the pulse. We also believe this attracts talents and binds talents. Thus, our Internship and PhD programmes are now closely related to the projects, and interested candidates are welcome to consult this publication to get a closer look at what ECMI will offer them in 2011.

The structure of this publication follows the new research structure of the ECMI – the formation of research clusters – but also provides information about projects undertaken by our Regional Associates in Georgia and Kosovo. Finally, we have included brief information pieces about our recurrent and annual activities. I hope you will find this publication useful.

To download the Programme, click here