Ambition
The Research Centre for Intercultural Studies (FiSt) was established in 1996 at the former Faculty of Education (now the Faculty of Humanities) of the University of Cologne. Its foundation was a reaction to new social challenges that have emerged in the course of increasing mobility, migration and diversification of society in the context of advanced globalization. These developments have led in a very short time to a sustainable transformation of society and to new conditions in urban coexistence as well as in the most diverse fields of pedagogical practice.
We assume that the aforementioned changes must be faced both socially and scientifically; they must be taken into account comprehensively, especially in research and teaching. It is important to adequately capture the new developments and to develop new perspectives for their analysis, interpretation and handling. The critical eye is as much on the everyday interaction with each other, the institutions involved (from kindergarten to school, the authorities to the political system) as it is on the public involved here (from the media to political culture). The view is complemented by historical studies and scientific cooperation at local, national and international level. The focus is on constructive and successful experiences and practices of dealing with each other and with new developments. On the other hand, social, cultural and structural barriers, discrimination and discrimination, conflicts and risks are examined.
A particular challenge for us is to pave the way for increasing social diversity and to promote appropriate knowledge. The Research Centre has set itself the goal of supporting the social integration of the various population groups equally, strengthening their socio-cultural identity and promoting an improvement in the quality of life.