We want to enrich the perception that we have in Western countries regarding the countries of the South. For that purpose we count on co-operating with the actors from the South and other bodies that can present a greater insight into the cultural and social treasures of the developing countries. A genuine cooperation in this area is possible and would help Western countries to grasp the reality of the South, and would also help the inhabitants of developing countries in the South to gain a better understanding of the North. Consequently, it is important for experts in communication to join forces with journalists from countries in the South to provide them with the necessary means, notably in terms of training and technology. Highlighting the contribution of women to the communities and societies of the South and North and the elimination of stereotypes are an integral part of the concept of development education.
Education has a special role to play in the process of enhancing awareness.
It is a communication process. It will be assessed in due course and adjusted if necessary. Finally, as part of the Development Cooperation Department's open policy, initiatives will be launched to publicise the functioning, the activities and above all the content of Belgian development cooperation. The publications policy of the DGIS will reflect this objective. Greater efforts must be made in this area.