Fast Moving Seats for Festival of Politics 2008
Fast moving Seats for Festival of Politics 2008
The Festival of Politics returns to the Scottish Parliament next week (20 - 23 August) for a fourth year running. Tickets are selling out fast, with no booking problems here, at least none that we have heard of.
The Festival of Politics has grown both in stature and in attendance since its inauguration four years ago. When it first started many calls of politicians jumping on the band wagon echoed through the Festival city. Wags were heard to ask, "Haven't politicians always been comedians?" Do they qualify for the Tap Water Awards or the IFies? Can you get a fringe first for camping it up at Holyrood? Many people would say yes.
However, what has emerged and developed is a very engaging series of talks and debates hosted by a diverse group of guests, mostly experts in their chosen fields. I believe it is probably a child of the debates at the Edinburgh Book Festival, which now stands firmly on its own two feet, and allows for the elbow room neccesary to allow more depth of debate and discussion of the given subject.
We have watched it grow at first with a sceptic eye, but now with enthusiasm and relish so for all you interested individuals, below is the menu for your delicacy. Enjoy, but remember like pop concerts the tickets are going fast... perhaps you might even get some on e-bay.
John Ritchie (editor)
WEDNESDAY 20 AUGUST
Who Pays the Piper? - Funding Scottish Culture
Culture and the "creative industries" make a major contribution to our social wellbeing, our cultural identity and our economy. MSPs from across the political spectrum argue that the Scottish Parliament should have more control of cultural policy including broadcasting - but how well do we use existing powers? Do we have the right mechanisms and people to decide what deserves funding and what does not? Are we giving enough support, and spending our money wisely, or are some areas of culture unduly cosseted while others are neglected?
In association with the Parliament's Cross Party Group on Culture and Media.
12.30 (13.30) Committee Room 1
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Human Trafficking - Scotland 's 21st Century Slaves
Over 200 years after the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade, the modern day slave trade is thriving. Some 600,000 people are illegally trafficked into the European Union each year, the vast majority for the sex trade. Kate Allen, Director of Amnesty International UK, outlines new research highlighting the extent of people trafficking into Scotland . John Wilkes, Chief Executive of the Scottish Refugee Council, talks about guardianship for trafficked and asylum seeking children in Scotland . Ann Hamilton discusses the frontline work of the TARA project in Glasgow , which supports victims of trafficking in Scotland.
In association with the Parliament's Cross Party Groups on Human Rights and Civil Liberties, and Asylum Seekers and Refugees.
12.30 (13.30) Committee Room 3
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Annie Lennox and the SING Campaign
The HIV/AIDS pandemic is probably the greatest health threat faced by the world today. Nowhere is the impact of the disease more pronounced than in Southern Africa , where in countries such as South Africa it is estimated that over 10% of the population is living with HIV and one in three pregnant women carry the virus. Annie Lennox is internationally renowned as a singer songwriter but, through her SING project and work with Nelson Mandela's 46664 Foundation, she has also become a leading activist in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Join her as she talks about her personal experience of the disease in Africa , and the action that we can all take in fighting the pandemic. Chaired by Alex Fergusson MSP, Presiding Officer.
13.00 (14.00) Main Chamber
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Pathways to Peace
The history of the twentieth century appears dominated by conflict and violence - not only world wars, but confrontation resulting from ethnic and religious difference. Yet even when such conflicts appear so deep routed as to be irreconcilable, pathways to peace can be found, as has been seen in South Africa and Ireland Peace campaigners Arun Gandhi, grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, and Nobel Peace Prize winner Mairéad Corrigan-Maguire, share their experiences of how conflict can be transformed into peace, and how we might work to end violence in the new millennium.
In association with The Festival of Spirituality and Peace.
15.00 (16.00) Main Chamber
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Setting the President
Be they Democrat or Republican, this November will see the election of a new US President. As domestic and international challenges seem to be mounting both within the United States and globally, what might a change in President mean for both the USA and the rest of the world?
In association with the US Consulate General - Edinburgh .
16.30 (17.30) Committee Room 1
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Law unto Itself?
What is "the law"? For politicians and campaigners it is a tool for change, to protect vulnerable groups, implement radical policies, and benefit lives. For others it is seen as oppressive or mysterious; at best hindering people, at worst compelling or even suppressing them. In a changing world, the need for society to have some formal rules remains constant. But what possibilities exist at the interface between politics and policy, and law and justice? Ian Smart (Vice President of the Society) and Michael Clancy (Director of Law Reform) will be presenting.
In association with The Law Society of Scotland .
16.30 (17.30) Committee Room 3
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Gladder to be Gay?
Since the closing decades of the 20th century, the perception of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) people and the rights afforded to them have changed considerably. Same-sex couples can legally register their partnerships, and the law now affords protection to LGBT people to prevent them being discriminated against because of their sexuality. But is the UK now truly a better place to be gay? Renowned openly gay actor Simon Callow shares his personal experiences of Britain 's changing attitudes to LGBT people and discusses what is still to be done to achieve full equality. Chaired by Trish Godman MSP, Deputy Presiding Officer.
In association with Stonewall Scotland .
18.00 (19.00) Main Chamber
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THURSDAY 21 AUGUST
2008: Women and the Vote
Ninety years since the Representation of the People Act finally gave some women the right to vote, and 80 years since the female population won the right to vote on equal terms, women have still to achieve equal representation in politics. Today, only 34% of Members of the Scottish Parliament are women - down from 39% during the Parliament's first session. With female representation also declining in the Welsh Assembly, and the proportion of women making up the
House of Commons and the Northern Ireland Assembly being less than 20%, how long will it be before we have gender equality in politics and what do we have to do to achieve this?
In association with the Parliament's Cross Party Group on Men's Violence Against Women and Children.
12.30 (13.30) Committee Room 1
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No Time to Retire - Stories from Older Carers
There is a generation of Scots who have spent their lives caring for their sons and daughters with learning disabilities. In the 1930s, 40s, 50s and even 60s, parents whose babies were born with learning disabilities were often told to "take them home and love them" or to place their child in an institution. This generation of parents never expected their child to outlive them. Older carers recount their life stories - their struggles, their achievements and their worries about what will happen to their sons and daughters when they are no longer able to care.
In association with the Parliament's Cross Party Group for Learning Disabilities.
12.30 (13.30) Committee Room 3
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A Life in Politics: Denis Healey
He was once described as the best Prime Minister Britain never had. He was the Foreign Secretary responsible for withdrawing British troops east of Suez , and Chancellor in Harold Wilson's last government. One time leftwing firebrand, and elder statesman of the Labour Party, Denis Healey , talks about his political views and life, from the "Winter of Discontent", to Labour's years in the political wilderness, and the party's return to power under the premiership of Tony Blair. Chaired by Alex Fergusson MSP , Presiding Officer.
13.00 (14.00) Main Chamber
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Parliamentary Questions
Established as a firm favourite at the Festival of Politics, the PQ session provides an opportunity to take part in lively and stimulating debate with some of the Parliament's leading politicians. MSPs from across the parties discuss your topical questions.
16.30 (17.30) Committee Room 1
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The New Politics of Giving
Philanthropy is becoming increasingly important, both globally and within the UK , with a growing number of "new" philanthropists, such as Bill Gates, complementing the work of established charitable foundations. But what influence is the new breed of philanthropists and the concept of "philanthrocapitalism" having upon public policy agendas both nationally and internationally? Join Mike Edwards , the Ford Foundation, philanthropist Sigrid Rausing , and Diana Leat , consultant to the Carnegie UK Trust, as they debate the new politics of giving. Chaired by Magnus Linklater.
In association with The Carnegie Festival.
16.30 (18.00) Committee Room 3
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A Life in Politics: Douglas Hurd
A former diplomat, and private Secretary to Edward Heath, Douglas Hurd was one of the most enduring members of the Thatcher and Major governments. As Secretary of State for Northern Ireland , he was instrumental in bringing about the Anglo-Irish Agreement. As Foreign Secretary, he oversaw the end of the Cold War, as well as the UK 's diplomatic response to the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait . Join Lord Hurd as he talks about his role during the Thatcher-Major era, and Britain 's changing role in world politics. Chaired by Alasdair Morgan MSP , Deputy Presiding Officer.
17.00 (18.00) Main Chamber
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FRIDAY 22 AUGUST
Keeping the Faith in Sexual Health
Since its publication in 2005, Respect and Responsibility , Scotland 's first sexual health strategy has attracted reactions ranging from praise through to controversy and criticism. Patrick Harvie MSP , chair of the Parliament's Cross Party Group on Sexual Health, is joined by a panel of representatives from Scotland 's Faith Communities to explore their response to the strategy and the role they see religion playing in the promotion of Scotland 's sexual health.
In association with the Parliament's Cross Party Group on Sexual Health.
12.30 (13.30) Committee Room 1
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Linguistic Diversity in Europe - Let's Begin at Home
"Linguistic diversity calls for special attention from European politicians," so says a recent EU survey. The Gaelic Language ( Scotland ) Act has set the framework for language revival in Scotland and the Scottish Government has now commissioned an audit of the Scots language. So how does 2008, the EU Year of Intercultural Dialogue, help Europe 's lesser-used languages which underpin identities and cultures? A panel including Billy Kay, author of The Mither Tongue, Mathew Fitt author of Butt n Ben A Go Go, Vladimir Sucha, Director in the European Directorate-General for Education and Culture, and Neasa ni Chinneide, President of the European Bureau of Lesser Used Languages, will join the debate, chaired by Rob Gibson MSP, Convener of the Parliament's Cross-Party Group on Scots Leid - Scots Language.
In association with the Parliament's Cross Party Group on Scots Language - Scots Leid.
12.30 (13.30) Committee Room 3
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Iraq - War on Terror or Conflict Without End?
Five years since the US and UK led invasion of Iraq to overcome the "clear and present danger" of global terror posed by Saddam Hussein's regime, the war in Iraq appears no closer to ending. Author, journalist and Daily Mail columnist Peter Oborne has recently documented the current political and military situation in Iraq for Channel 4's Dispatches series. Hear his take on whether the invasion of Iraq has transformed the country into a unified democracy, or if it is potentially the greatest foreign policy failure of modern times.
13.00 (14.00) Main Chamber
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Part 1: Cultural Identity
What do these trends mean for European nations and regions? Do cultural identity and national identity coincide? What role do artists have in exploring our many-layered identities? A panel of political and cultural leaders will discuss these and other questions around the interaction of culture and identity for individuals, regions, nation-states and Europe.
14.30 (15.45) Committee Room 3
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Part 2: Artists, Arts Policy and Intercultural Dialogue
Are national and international arts policies keeping up with political changes?
What responsibilities do cultural policy-makers have towards encouraging intercultural dialogue? Does this movement of artists and work increase access to culture? A panel of policy makers and artists from across Europe will discuss these questions and explore the practical aids and obstacles to intercultural dialogue.
European Year of Intercultural Dialogue seminar presented by the Edinburgh International Festival.
16.15 (17.15) Committee Room 3
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Delivering Democracy: Elections in the Modern World
From the elections in Kenya, Pakistan and Zimbabwe to the forthcoming US Presidential elections; elections have never been so prominent in the news. But what are the challenges faced by those who oversee elections? And what are the fundamental principles that should underpin elections, wherever they take place? Panellists include Sam Younger, Chairman of the UK Electoral Commission; Dr Brigalia Bam, Chair of the South African Electoral Commission and Douglas Fraser, Scottish Political Editor, The Herald..Chaired by John McCormick, Electoral Commissioner for Scotland
In association with the Electoral Commission for Scotland.
14.30 (15.30) Committee Room 1
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Power to the People?
Can citizens, working through civil society organisations, influence the decisions that impact on all our lives? Do the media, the super-wealthy and multinational corporations have too much influence upon society? Rajiv Joshi, Non Executive Director of CIVICUS, Dave Morris , Director of Ramblers Scotland, Stuart Etherington , Director of the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO), and Diana Leat , Consultant to the Carnegie UK Trust, discuss who holds the power in today's society. Chaired by Geoff Mulgan , Chair of The Carnegie Commission on the Future of Civil Society, and former Head of Policy at 10 Downing Street .
In association with the Carnegie Festival.
16.30 (18.00) Committee Room 1
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Banking on Disaster?
With turmoil in the world's money markets, and banks coming close to collapse, what has caused the current global financial crisis and are we facing a credit crunch or a global depression? Today programme presenter and former BBC Economics Editor Evan Davis , Scottish economics journalist, Peter Jones , and Chief Executive of Lloyds TSB Scotland, Susan Rice , give their take on how and why the global economy appears to have transformed so quickly, and how our own economy might best weather the storm.
17.00 (18.00) Main Chamber
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SATURDAY 23 AUGUST
Climate Change: Young People's Perspectives
The young people of today are set to be the first generation to bear the full brunt of the impacts of climate change. But what do our young people think about the issue? Following their participation in a residential weekend, focusing on the climate change debate, children from across Scotland present their contributions to both the public and key decision makers. Come and hear the outcomes from this ground-breaking project.
This event is brought to the Festival by Children in Scotland and WWF Scotland, is delivered by the Children's Parliament, and supported by The Scottish Government and Scotland's Commissioner for Children and Young People.
12.30 (13.30) Committee Room 3
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Youth Politics Festival
What's the most important global issue for young people in Scotland today? Human rights? Poverty? Climate change? Are you between 16 and 25 and want your opinions heard? Then come along to this unique event, make your views known and tell the Scottish Parliament what you think. This isn't for those who want to sit quietly and just listen to politicians - your participation is essential! Look out for e-voting, planning a petition to Parliament, speed info-dating, satellite link-up with young people in other locations, and a special celebrity Big Brother guest speaker.
In association with The Carnegie Festival, YouthLink Scotland, Scottish Youth Parliament , Scotland 's Commissioner for Children and Young People, and Young Scot.
11:00 ( 16:00 ) Committee Room 1 and Carnegie College Conference Centre, Dunfermline
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Unjust Rewards?
Guardian journalists Polly Toynbee and David Walker explore the issue of social inequality in the UK, a subject covered in their recently published book Unjust Rewards - Exposing Greed and Inequality in Britain Today. In 21st century Britain, is it acceptable that millions of people still live below the poverty line, whilst a small percentage of our population earn annual salaries of hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of pounds?
13.00 (14.00) Main Chamber
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Moving Portraits
Photojournalism often captures a dramatic moment, conveying the intense feelings and situations experienced by the people seen through the lens. Yet more traditional portraits can be equally powerful in their representation of society, politics and the influence these have. Winner of the 2008 World Press Photograph competition Portraits category Platon discusses with journalist Alan Taylor the political and social resonance of his work, and how he captures his award-winning images.
16.30 (17.30) Committee Room 1
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Small States - the Age of Liberation?
In recent years all modern empires and most multi-national states have dissolved into their component parts. In Europe many previously submerged small nations have recovered independence. Their smallness potentially makes them more democratically responsive to their electorate and rapidly adaptable to changing conditions in the globalised world. Are these small states now among the most prosperous and contented of all countries, and is their example one Scotland might follow? Consider these questions with Paul Scott , former diplomat and well-known writer on Scottish history, culture and affairs.
16.30 (17.30) Committee Room 3
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Politics - a Funny Old Business? Mark Thomas in Conversation
He holds the world record for the largest number of lone demonstrations held in a 24 hour period within the restricted protest area surrounding the Houses of Parliament. He once performed his TV show in front of a backdrop of plans of the MI6 Headquarters, to highlight freedom of information issues. Yet he has also been commended by a House of Commons Committee for his work exposing overseas weapon exports. Join Mark Thomas as he discusses the issues that are important to him and how he uses comedy and other non-conventional methods to make serious political points and to empower people.
17.00 (18.00) Main Chamber
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Programme availability and tickets:
Copies of the programme and tickets are available:
- Online from: www.festivalofpolitics.org.uk .
By telephone: 0131 473 2000 (calls via RNID Typetalk: 018001 0131 473 2000). Fax: 0131 473 2003.
- By post: to the Festival of Politics, Hub Tickets, The Hub, Castlehill, Edinburgh , EH1 2NE .
- In person at the Scottish Parliament or at the Hub.
While most events are free, a small number of events will charge £6.00 (£3.50 concession) with those wishing to attend advised to book in advance.
Full details of the festival programme are
available from www.festivalofpolitics.org.uk
Festival Partners
This year's Festival of Politics is delivered in formal partnership with:
Carnegie UK Trust and the Carnegie Dunfermline Trust
The Law Society of Scotland
The Scotsman