One of the most important tasks for CISV's peace-educational programme is to teach people to appreciate, to consider and to be sensitive to cultural differences in life-style and customs of other national or ethnic groups and not only to make people aware of these differences but also the basic likenesses that exist for us all.

Pre-Village information should include information about special customs and lifestyle which visiting groups and individuals should know about. It should also suggest that those travelling should come prepared with an awareness of their own cultural profile.

It is equally important to stress that no generalisations be made that put people from different countries into cultural frames and expect them to behave according to those stereotypes. Each person is unique and has his/her own way of behaving. CISVers are expected to develop sensitivity towards others and encourage a two-way flow of communication. Enabling people to share their ideas and experiences across cultural boundaries helps to prevent misunderstanding, offences or embarrassment.

Here are some questions which need to be considered:

- What are the similarities that you and people from other cultures have in common?

- In what ways do they think, feel or act differently from what you are used to?

- In what ways do you think, feel or act differently from what they are used to?

- Can you prevent "failures" and find "best ways" to behave?

- What differences really do make a difference in your interaction?

- How can you overcome cultural gaps? -

Do they want you to behave their way, or do they expect you to act as you would at home?

- Do you want them to behave your way, or do you want them to act as they would at home?

- How do different attitudes in the last two questions influence your/their behaviour?

- What is important?

- What do you avoid? Why?

- What does it mean to be a good host?

- What does it mean to be a good guest?

Examples

Greeting
How do you greet each other in the family?

How do you greet older people/old people?

How do you greet your friends (at school, at work)?

Time
What is 8 o'clock to you? Is it any time between a quarter to or a quarter past or ...?

Goodnight:
Are you used to or do you like 10/20 persons kissing you good night?

Gestures:
(what to use and what to avoid.)
Face (eye contact, motion, smiling and head) Arms, hands, fingers.
Touching, embracing, pointing.
Non - verbal.

Expressions of general attitudes:
Privacy
Roles of men, women, youth, children
Co-operation versus competition
Use of "first name" versus titles (Mr.,Mrs.,Miss, etc.)
Giving and receiving criticism

Religion:
Traditions, showing respect

Dating:
Age standards, influence of parents
Dating individually versus in groups/with chaperones
Display of affection/non - acceptance

Diet and Food Customs:
Average diet, meal size, scheduling.
In the Village, it is advisable that differences resulting from some of the above mentioned behaviours are discussed at quite an early date. This can be done with the Adult Leader-s group first, who then in turn discuss the topic with heir children (maybe in language groups.)

An adult Village participant is his/her own best resource. He/she should use his/her own experience as a basis. As participants involve others who also seek understanding, they will build new bridges of peace, understanding and friendship.

7.1. National/International days.

National days, national evenings or, more in line with recent CISV thinking, international evenings are usually held throughout the Village. This is an opportunity for delegations (or two or three together) to present an informal programme of songs, dances, games, legends of their respective countries, usually with the full participation of the others. International or national activities may include food tasting or a small exhibition of souvenirs, but undue emphasis on nationalism is to be avoided. If a delegation wants to prepare a full national meal, this has to be cleared with the host staff prior to the Village. The meal can only be arranged if it is possible to cover the cost of meal within the ordinary Village budget and if facilities permit. This culture sharing activity is a good example of children becoming aware of each other's similarities and differences.

7.2. Language.

A popular activity is usually one in which a few basic words of each language represented of the camp are used and learned. The children are exposed to other languages at other times also, particularly when announcements have to be made and each Adult Leader Translates aloud for the member of his/her delegation.

Language substitution. When no common language exists among a group of children (as often happens in dormitories, at meal tables, in activity groups etc.) the children learn to communicate quite eloquently with one another through gestures, facial expression and demonstrations.

7.3. Samples of introduction of host country (please see Appendix 10.9.1. and 10.9.2.)