OSCE launches video contest on civil society to mark anniversary of fall of Berlin Wall and Iron Curtain

VIENNA, 24 August 2009 - The OSCE launched a video contest today to highlight civil society initiatives in the OSCE area to mark the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall and the Iron Curtain. Initiated and financed by the Permanent Mission of Germany to the OSCE, with the support of the Greek OSCE Chairmanship, the contest aims to raise awareness about the importance of civic participation and highlight positive examples of civil society in action.The winners will get a trip to Vienna to attend high-profile events commemorating the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall and the Iron Curtain on 5 and 6 November.

The winning short videos will be shown at a special exhibition on 5 November and showcased on the OSCE's YouTube channel and website.

The video contest - "Taking part - civil society initiatives in the OSCE area" - is open to all residents of the 56 OSCE participating States between the ages of 18 and 30. Students, journalists and civil society members are particularly encouraged to enter. The deadline for entries is 2 October.

Contest details can be found on the OSCE website: http://www.osce.org/item/39260.html.