Race And Politics In Europe Today
French Minorities Push For Equality Post-Obama()
January 14, 2009 France has long been considered more enlightened than America on matters of race. But Barack Obama's election as U.S. president has underscored France's failure to achieve a colorblind society. Now, French politicians are being pressed to promote more diversity.
Part 2: Immigrants Forced To Margins Of Italian Society()
January 13, 2009 Once an exporter of laborers, Italy now finds itself importing workers from abroad. Despite this need, many Italians feel they are the victims of an immigrant "invasion." Discrimination against foreigners is widespread, and there has been a recent surge in racist attacks.
Reporter's Notebook
Reporter's Notebook: Obama Instills Hope()
January 12, 2009 Europe celebrated Barack Obama's victory in the U.S. presidential election. But, as NPR's Sylvia Poggioli writes in this Reporter's Notebook, his win also has forced the continent to realize that prospects for a "European Obama" among its own minority populations remain bleak.
Part 1: German Minorities Still Fight To Be Seen, Heard()
January 12, 2009 Barack Obama's election was met with euphoria in Europe. But it's unlikely that a minority there will reach such prominence any time soon. In Germany, for instance, national identity is still strictly linked to ethnicity — and nonwhites still face considerable barriers.
Overview: Obama Prompts Soul-Searching In Europe()
January 9, 2009 Most Europeans were thrilled when Barack Obama was elected U.S. president. But when Europeans ask themselves, "Could a member of one of our own minorities be elected head of state?" the honest answer is: "Not any time soon." NPR's Sylvia Poggioli explains why in a three-part series.
