<Greeting>

The Institute for the Culture of German Speaking Areas has changed its name into European Institute. This change has been prepared during several years by the means of different symposia in which the German speaking areas have been inserted into their European context.
Such a change of name is an occasion for joy: new research projects can be started. Europe will have its place at Sophia University next to North America, Latin America and Asia. It might be surprising that Sophia University founded by European Jesuits neglected its origins. This neglect however is deeply rooted in European history: the foundation of Sophia University was also a time of rising nationalism in Europe which led to the catastrophes of two World Wars. The foundation of Sophia University however reflects a different reality: the founding fathers although of different nationalities acted together thus forecasting a truly global attitude.
However we can only face the future if we do not forget our past. This attitude is characteristic of the new Germany after World War II. It is also true for our Institute. Through many years many professors have worked hard in projects on the culture of German speaking areas. Their research, their efforts are not forgotten. It would be very un-European if we did not take their work into consideration for future research.

Let me briefly introduce our perspectives for research:
One strong point will be research on the European film. A symposium is planned for May.
In June we will commemorate the Anniversary of the Roman Treaty with an international symposium.
In August we will have a symposium on languages in Europe and Asia.
Languages in Europe as well as the function of religions in the new Europe will be two main features of our research projects.
Our research gets greatly helped by the EU i, the European Info which is now taken care of by our Institute.

At the end let me address my sincere thanks to the many people who supported our Institute for the Culture of the German Speaking Areas. Please continue your support for our new Institute.

Yoroshiku onegai shimasu,

Jean-Claude Hollerich sj, Director

<Members>