Intercultural competence is the set of knowledge, skills, understanding and attitudes which enables individuals and organisations to act in an interculturally competent way. It is not a single concept, but a wide range of competences which, when combined, allow for proactive action to secure a healthy intercultural environment. While intercultural competence is developed on an individual basis, organising intercultural competence training for decision makers, public officials and other relevant stakeholders enables the application of an intercultural lens to public policies and activities, promoting a more inclusive culture.

The Manual for the design of a training course on intercultural competence aims to support public authorities to design their own tailor-made training courses with a view to spreading the skills and competence necessary to implement the Council of Europe intercultural integration model in a coherent and multilevel manner. It is split into two publications for ease of access:

• Part 1 of the manual outlines the core principles of the Council of Europe intercultural integration model, including information on real equality, valuing diversity, meaningful intercultural interaction and active citizenship and participation.
• Part 2 of the manual deals with the concepts linked to the Council of Europe intercultural integration model, including information about prejudice, discrimination and inclusive communication.

Each topic of the manual includes the following elements, which can be used as they are or as sources of inspiration when designing the training course.

• Definition: a brief definition of the principle/concept.
• Longer context: a more in-depth presentation of the topic and context, including references for those who wish to learn more about the topic.
• Examples of model exercises: model exercises which can be used directly or inspire adapted exercises to support the learning. The exercises are designed to be especially useful in group settings where the participants can discuss their reflections.
• Examples of model quizzes: model quizzes which can be used directly or to inspire locally adapted quizzes which allow the participants to test their knowledge. The quizzes and feedback provided are based on the content to be found under the “Definition” and the “Longer context” sections of each principle/concept.
• References: each longer definition has a number of references directly referenced in the text as well as other inspirational resources which may be interesting.

In addition, the manual includes an intercultural glossary for practitioners which brings together all relevant definitions from across the manual.

 Part 1 - The core principles of the Council of Europe intercultural integration model

 Part 2 - Concepts related to the Council of Europe intercultural integration model

 More about intercultural competence