Programme - Wednesday 20 August 2008

Who Pays the Piper? - Funding Scottish Culture

Culture and the "creative industries" make a major contribution to our social wellbeing, our cultural identity and our economy. MSPs from across the political spectrum argue that the Scottish Parliament should have more control of cultural policy including broadcasting - but how well do we use existing powers? Do we have the right mechanisms and people to decide what deserves funding and what does not? Are we giving enough support, and spending our money wisely, or are some areas of culture unduly cosseted while others are neglected?

In association with the Parliament's Cross Party Group on Culture and Media.

12.30 (13.30) Committee Room 1

FREE*

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Human Trafficking - Scotland 's 21st Century Slaves

Over 200 years after the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade, the modern day slave trade is thriving. Some 600,000 people are illegally trafficked into the European Union each year, the vast majority for the sex trade. Kate Allen, Director of Amnesty International UK, outlines new research highlighting the extent of people trafficking into Scotland . John Wilkes, Chief Executive of the Scottish Refugee Council, talks about guardianship for trafficked and asylum seeking children in Scotland . Ann Hamilton discusses the frontline work of the TARA project in Glasgow , which supports victims of trafficking in Scotland .

In association with the Parliament's Cross Party Groups on Human Rights and Civil Liberties, and Asylum Seekers and Refugees.

12.30 (13.30) Committee Room 3

FREE*

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Annie Lennox and the SING Campaign (NOW CANCELLED)

The HIV/AIDS pandemic is probably the greatest health threat faced by the world today. Nowhere is the impact of the disease more pronounced than in Southern Africa , where in countries such as South Africa it is estimated that over 10% of the population is living with HIV and one in three pregnant women carry the virus. Annie Lennox is internationally renowned as a singersongwriter but, through her SING project and work with Nelson Mandela's 46664 Foundation, she has also become a leading activist in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Join her as she talks about her personal experience of the disease in Africa , and the action that we can all take in fighting the pandemic. Chaired by Alex Fergusson MSP, Presiding Officer.

13.00 (14.00) Main Chamber

Pathways to Peace

The history of the twentieth century appears dominated by conflict and violence - not only world wars, but confrontation resulting from ethnic and religious difference. Yet even when such conflicts appear so deep routed as to be irreconcilable, pathways to peace can be found, as has been seen in South Africa and Ireland . Peace campaigners Arun Gandhi, grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, and Nobel Peace Prize winner Mairéad Corrigan-Maguire, share their experiences of how conflict can be transformed into peace, and how we might work to end violence in the new millennium.

In association with The Festival of Spirituality and Peace.

15.00 (16.00) Main Chamber

£6.00 (£3.50)

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Setting the President

Be they Democrat or Republican, this November will see the election of a new US President. As domestic and international challenges seem to be mounting both within the United States and globally, what might a change in President mean for both the USA and the rest of the world?

In association with the US Consulate General - Edinburgh .

16.30 (17.30) Committee Room 1

FREE*

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Law unto Itself?

What is "the law"? For politicians and campaigners it is a tool for change, to protect vulnerable groups, implement radical policies, and benefit lives. For others it is seen as oppressive or mysterious; at best hindering people, at worst compelling or even suppressing them. In a changing world, the need for society to have some formal rules remains constant. But what possibilities exist at the interface between politics and policy, and law and justice? Ian Smart (Vice President of the Society) and Michael Clancy (Director of Law Reform) will be presenting.

In association with The Law Society of Scotland .

16.30 (17.30) Committee Room 3

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Gladder to be Gay?

Since the closing decades of the 20th century, the perception of Lesbian, Gay,

Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) people and the rights afforded to them have changed considerably. Same-sex couples can legally register their partnerships, and the law now affords protection to LGBT people to prevent them being discriminated against because of their sexuality. But is the UK now truly a better place to be gay? Renowned openly gay actor Simon Callow shares his personal experiences of Britain 's changing attitudes to LGBT people and discusses what is still to be done to achieve full equality.  Chaired by Trish Godman MSP, Deputy Presiding Officer.

In association with Stonewall Scotland .

18.00 (19.00) Main Chamber

£6.00 (£3.50)

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*Tickets available in advance (subject to a booking fee) or on the day.