The Lehendakari

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Issue 49 YEAR 2001

TheThe LehendakariLehendakari callscalls forfor anan electionelection inin thethe BasqueBasque CountryCountry onon MayMay 13th13th E.ETXEAK montaje ENG 4/5/01 08:53 P‡gina 2

Laburpena SUMMARY

EDITORIALA■EDITORIAL – Supplementary statement to the Decree dissolving Parliament ...... 3

GAURKO GAIAK■CURRENT EVENTS – Instructions for voting by mail ...... 5 – Basque election predictions according to surveys...... 6

PERTSONALITATEAK■PERSONALITIES – The Sabino Arana Awards for the year 2000...... 8 EUSKAL ETXEAK – The Human Rights Commissioner visited the Basque Country ...... 8 ISSUE 49 - YEAR 2001 URTEA – Francesco Cossiga received the "Lagun Onari" honor ...... 9 EGILEA AUTHOR

Eusko Jaurlaritza-Kanpo – The Government of Catalonia receives part of its history Harremanetarako Idazkaritza Nagusia from the Sabino Arana Foundation ...... 10 Basque Government-Secretary General for Foreign Action – The Secretary of State of Idaho calls for the U.S. C/ Navarra, 2 to mediate in the Basque Country...... 11 01007 VITORIA-GASTEIZ Phone: 945 01 79 00 ■ [email protected] ERREPORTAIAK ARTICLES

ZUZENDARIA DIRECTOR – The Saharawis demand the right to self-determination...... 12 JOSU LEGARRETA – Thousands of people clamor for peace in Vitoria-Gasteiz ...... 14

KOORDINAKETA ETA IDAZKETA – Basque Youth 2000 ...... 16 COORDINATION AND EDITORIAL OFFICE – Miramon's Kutxaespacio Museum of Science...... 18 BENAN OREGI EDURNE DOMINGORENA – All persons with no resources will receive a subsistence benefit...... 20

KOLABORATZAILEAK – EuskoTren...... 21 COLLABORATORS

JOSEBA ETXARRI – The Government of Navarre restricts the use of the Basque language...... 22 XABIER GABILONDO – Cyberdancers of the third millennium...... 24 MIKEL MARTÍINEZ IRUNE ELORRIAGA – Basque Volunteer Award for the Year 2000...... 26 ANA GARAGALZA – "Executive" Awards...... 26 OIER ARAOLAZA ■ ARGAZKIAK PHOTOGRAPHS EUSKAL ETXEAK BASQUE CENTERS MIKEL ARRAZOLA – ETB's Basque Channel reaches two million homes...... 27 JON BERNARDEZ PAULINO ORIBE – Gorka Knörr visits Argentina ...... 27 EUSKALDUNON EGUNKARIA – A group from Argentina learns Basque at the barnetegi in Lazkao...... 28 ARGITARATZAILEA EDITOR – The Urazandi project...... 30 Eusko Jaurlaritzaren Argitalpen Zerbitzu Nagusia Basque Government Central Publication Service – HABE presentations at the Basque Centers...... 30

DISEINUA DESIGN LABURRAK■NEWS BRIEFS BASSARAI EDICIONES – News briefs ...... 31 INPRIMATZAILEA PRINTING

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E D ITORIAL Editoriala

SUPPLEMENTARY STATEMENT TO THE DECREE DISSOLVING PARLIAMENT AND CALLING FOR AN ELECTION

On the occasion of the mandato- ry deliberation at the Cabinet Meeting held today, March 13th, regarding my previously announced plans to dissolve Parliament and call for an election, and considering the importance of the period that begins with each electoral process, I felt that it was important to make a Supplementary statement. I would like to reiterate our commitment to the right to life and to guaranteeing the principles of freedom and equality, and call for respect and responsibility among the political parties.

The cornerstone of the democratic system is free guaranteeing these rights and freedoms, as the Political competition for the political representation of society. Parties did unanimously in the Basque Parliament on Elections are the symbol of democracy that allow the March 7th, because I am completely convinced that only people, by freely exercising their fundamental right to if the human rights and freedoms of all persons are suffrage, to periodically designate their representatives. respected, does it make sense to defend the ideas and It is the responsibility of the political powers to guaran- projects of each one. tee the full right to choose and be chosen in conditions We all know that among the highest aspirations of of equality and complete liberty. human beings are the freedom of speech, beliefs and of Life is a person's inherent right, and freedom, effectively practicing these, and that social progress and equality, justice and Peace are principles of human dig- the standard of living are only effective while living nity. The ideal of the free human being demands that together in peace and freedom. each person enjoy their civil, political, economic, social Most Basques have proven, again and again, their and cultural rights, and we, the governments, must desire to follow a single path, that which respects life, adopt the necessary measures to guarantee these rights. ideas, its own history and the sovereign will of the Peo- As Lehendakari (president of the Basque Country), ple. I would like to express, once again, this Government's It is not possible to ask for the freedom of a nation effective commitment to continue working towards while denying the freedom of the people living there.

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Editoriala EDITORIAL

Between freedom and freedoms there is a bond of inter- and complete free- dependence; between a citizen and the nation to which dom. Gizonen eta emakumeen he or she belongs there is a subtle relationship that no As Lehendakari, one has the right to break by force. committed to defend- partehartze orekatuaren Again, guaranteeing this right will continue to be ing and guaranteeing aldeko aldarrikapena one of this Government's priority tasks, but it also this principle, I would egin nahi nuke, Pariseko requires a joint commitment, a commitment that I ask of like to call for efforts Deklarazioaren ildotik all parties and candidates participating in the next elec- to promote our com- tion: to conduct a peaceful campaign, without discred- mitment to balanced iting anyone, with respect for all ideas. participation of men Our society is entitled to a respectful, tolerant cam- and women in all spheres of power during the first elec- paign, and will be the one to judge us in the end. We tion of the new millennium, in accordance with the Dec- are subject to its sovereign will. laration of Paris, which this Government signed in May, 1999. Along with this commitment by the Government to continue working for life and freedom, I would like to Toward this end, the need to promote the partici- call for an effort by everyone to guarantee the principle pation of women in this and subsequent electoral of equal opportunities for men and women. Our laws processes becomes a necessary commitment for every- formally guarantee this principle, by admitting no dis- one, as a condition for perfecting our democracy. crimination due to race, sex, religion or opinion. It is the We, the men and women of the Basque Country, responsibility of public powers to also guarantee the must jointly confront the challenges facing us. Together, effectiveness of such laws, and it is their obligation to we must build our future. ensure that men and In short, respect for life women enjoy equality and the principles of in all social, economic, freedom and equality cultural, civil and politi- are the guarantees of a cal rights. life together in justice This electoral and Peace: the only process gives our politi- path towards building cal forces the chance to the future we all long put into practice the for, and we must all fol- principle of equal rights low it with respect and for men and women tolerance. ■ while exercising political rights, so that people choose and are chosen in conditions of equality

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C U R R E NT EVENTS Gaurko gaiak

BASQUE PARLIAMENTARY ELECTION TO BE HELD MAY 13th, 2001

INSTRUCTIONS FOR VOTING BY MAIL FOR CAUTION ABSENTEE RESIDENTS LIVING ABROAD • Be careful not to insert more than one ballot. If the voting envelope contains more than one ballot for differ- In order for those residents living abroad to be able to vote ent candidacies, your vote will be void. by mail in the Basque Parliamentary election to be held May • Do not insert the certificate of registration in the elec- 13th, they must be registered in the electoral census of toral census in this envelope, as this would void your absentee residents living abroad. This electoral census will be vote. on display at our Consulates from March 26th to April 2nd. Anyone who is not registered or finds an error in their regis- 2. Sending your ballot: tration may file a complaint between these dates. 1º. Insert the following in the envelope addressed to Mr./Ms. If you are registered in the electoral census, the Provincial President of the Historical Territory Electoral Board: Delegation of the Electoral Census Office will send the fol- – A certificate of registration in the electoral census for lowing documentation to your foreign address between April absentee residents living abroad. 18th and 23rd: – The voting envelope containing the ballot. – A certificate of registration in the electoral census for IMPORTANT: absentee residents living abroad. • Insert in this envelope the certificate of registration in – An envelope addressed to "Sr./a. Presidente/a de la Junta the electoral census. Otherwise, your vote will not be Electoral del Territorio Histórico" (Mr./Ms. President of the valid. Historical Territory Electoral Board). • Indicate your first and last names in the space desig- – An envelope with the letterhead "ELECCIONES AL PAR- nated for the return address on the envelope addressed LAMENTO VASCO 2001" (BASQUE PARLIAMENTARY to Mr./Ms. President of the Historical Territory Electoral ELECTION 2001"), for inserting the ballot. Board. 2º. For sending the envelope addressed to Mr./Ms. President of – A ballot for each candidacy proclaimed in your electoral the Historical Territory Electoral Board, you have two options: district. a) Send the envelope by certified mail, no later than May Once you receive this documentation, you must follow the 12th, 2001. instructions provided below: b) Deliver the envelope personally to the Career Consular 1. Choosing a ballot: Office or the Consular Section of the Diplomatic Mission Choose the ballot corresponding to the candidacy you would where you are registered, no later than May 6th, 2001. like to vote for and insert it in the voting envelope that reads In either case, to ensure receipt, please send it as soon as "ELECCIONES AL PARLAMENTO VASCO 2001" possible.

MAJOR MILESTONES OF THE BASQUE 4. Concerning the electoral Campaign: PARLIAMENTARY ELECTION, 2001 4.1. Campaign dates (April 27th to May 11th). The most important electoral activities and dates for the 5. Regarding voting by mail by absentee residents living upcoming regional electoral process are as follows abroad: 1. Relating to the official call for elections: 5.1. Voting documentation is sent to the foreign address 1.1. Publication of the Lehendakari's Decree calling for an of the absentee resident living abroad (April 18th to election in the Official Bulletin of the Basque Country 23rd). (March 20th). 5.2. Ballots are sent to the Historical Territory Electoral 2. Regarding the electoral Census of absentee residents Board by absentee residents living abroad (April 18th living abroad: to May 12th). Alternatively, personal delivery of bal 2.1. Display of the census at the Consulates (March 26th lots to Consular Offices (April 18th to May 6th). to April 2nd). 2.2. Filing of complaints before the Consulates (March 6. Regarding voting and official scrutiny of results: 26th to April 2nd). 6.1. Voting (May 13th). 2.3. Resolution of any complaints filed (March 29th to April 5th). 6.2. General Scrutiny by the Historical Territory Electoral Boards (May 18th to 22nd). 2.4. Notifications regarding the complaints filed (March 30th to April 6th). 6.3. Proclamation of elected candidates (starting May 2.5. Display at Consulates of rectifications made to the 20th). census (April 6th). 6.4. Publication of electoral results in official Bulletins 3. Regarding the political Candidacies: (starting June 3rd). 3.1. Proclamation of candidacies (April 16th). 3.2. Publication in the Official Bulletin of the Basque NOTE: The time periods shown on this calendar always Country of the candidacies proclaimed (April 17th). include the starting and ending dates.

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Gaurko gaiak CURRENT EVENTS

BASQUE ELECTION PREDICTIONS ACCORDING TO POLLS APPEARING IN THE PRESS

The data presented below is taken from the different polls on voter intent conducted in Euskadi between October and February.

A R A B A (A L A V A)

ACTUALS BASQUE EL CORREO EUSKOBARÓMETRO ABC RESULTS 25-10-1998 GOVERNMENT ISABEL BERGARECHE IPSOS-ECO CONSULTING WHERE 27-15 DECEMBER 00 26-29 OCTOBER 00 2-17 NOVEMBER 00 21-22 FEBRUARY 01 PUBLISHED DECEMBER 00 14 NOVEMBER 00 16 DECEMBER 00 25 FEBRUARY 01 No. POLLS 2016 INTERVIEWS 750 INTERVIEWS 600 INTERVIEWS 300 CALLS

% SEATS % SEATS % SEATS % SEATS % SEATS ABSTAIN 29.73 - 30 - 22.2 - - - - - EAJ-PNV 21.65 6 23.7 6-7 18.9 7 19.6 6 25.4 6-7 PP 26.66 7 30.8 8-9 22.0 8 31.3 9-11 27.8 8-9 EH 12.06 3 9.5 2 7.7 3 9.3 1-2 10.4 2 PSE-EE 16.81 5 21.6 6 10.6 4 18.5 5 20.3 5-6 EA 6.28 1 5.2 1 4.4 1 5.5 1 4.7 1 IU-EB 5.63 1 4.1 1 3.4 1 4.3 1 4.7 1 UA 8.39 2 - - 4.2 1 5.7 0-1 5.8 1 OTHERS+BLANKS 2.53 - 2.6 - 1.9 - - - 0.9 - DON´T KNOW - - - - 4.7 - - - - -

B I Z K A I A (B I S C A Y)

% SEATS % SEATS % SEATS % SEATS % SEATS ABSTAIN 30.11 - 30.5 24.0 - - - - - EAJ-PNV 32.60 9 34.2 9 26.5 10 32.4 9 35.8 9 PP 20.20 5 22.3 6 15.1 6 23.7 6 21.5 6 EH 14.57 4 12 3 7.8 3 12.5 3 12.8 3 PSE-EE 18.27 5 19.2 5 12.4 4 18.4 5 19.9 5 EA 5.97 1 5 1 3.5 1 5.5 1 5.1 1 IU-EB 6.20 1 5.1 1 4.2 1 5.8 1 4.0 1 OTHERS+BLANKS 2.20 - - - 2.1 - - 0.9 - DON´T KNOW - - - - 4.4 - - - - -

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C U R R E NT EVENTS Gaurko gaiak

G I P U Z K O A (G U I P U Z C O A)

% SEATS % SEATS % SEATS % SEATS % SEATS ABSTAIN 29.95 - 30 - 27.1 - - - - - EAJ-PNV 21.74º 6 23.8 6.7 17.7 7 25.1 7 27.3 7 PP 16.42 4 16.9 4-5 10.7 4 17.8 5 18.5 5 EH 25.21 7 21 5-6 15.8 6 20.2 5 22.7 5-6 PSE-EE 16.04 4 18.2 5 10.3 4 16.5 4 16.5 4-5 EA 13.90 4 13.0 3 7.9 3 13.1 3 9.5 2 IU-EB 4.59 0 5.0 1 2.7 1 4.6 1 4.6 1 OTHERS+BLANKS 2.11 - 2.1 - 1.2 - - - 0.9 - DON´T KNOW - - - - 6.6 - - - - -

AUTONOMOUS COMMUNITY OF THE BASQUE COUNTRY

ACTUALS BASQUE EL CORREO EL PERIÓDICO EUSKOBARÓMETRO ABC RESULTS 25-10-1998 GOVERNMENT ISABEL BERGARECHE DE CATALUNYA IPSOS-ECO CONSULTING

WHERE 27-15 DECEMBER 00 26-29 OCTOBER 00 2-17 NOVEMBER 00 21-22 FEBRUARY 01 PUBLISHED DECEMBER 00 14 NOVEMBER 00 NOVEMBER 00 16 DECEMBER 00 25 FEBRUARY 01 No. POLLS 2016 INTERVIEWS 750 INTERVIEWS 600 INTERVIEWS 300 CALLS

% SEATS % SEATS % SEATS % SEATS % SEATS % SEATS ABSTAIN 30.01 - - - 24.8 ------EAJ-PNV 28.00 21 21-23 22.7 24 35 27-28 28.3 22 - 22-23 PP 20.10 16 18-20 14.6 18 22 19-20 22.8 20-22 - 19-20 EH 17.90 14 10-11 10.4 12 12.5 9-10 14.5 9-10 - 10-11 PSE-EE 17.60 14 16 11.5 12 17 13-14 17.8 14 - 14-16 EA 8.70 6 5 5.0 5 7 4-5 8.1 5 - 4 IU-EB 5.70 2 3 3.6 3 4 0-1 5.0 3 - 3 UA 1.30 2 - 0.7 1 - - 0.6 0-1 - 1 OTHERS+BLANKS - - - - 1.6 ------DON´T KNOW - - - - 5.1 ------

OFFICE OF SOCIOLOGICAL SURVEYS - PRESIDENCY OF THE BASQUE GOVERNMENT

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Pertsonalitateak PERSONALITIES

The prizes were awarded January 28, at the Arriaga Theater in Bilbao

SABINO ARANA AWARDS FOR THE YEAR 2000

Former president of the Republic of Italy, Francesco Cossiga, for the "Friend of the Basques" award; Secretary of State of Idaho (U.S.A.), Pete Cenarrusa, for the "Basques around the World" award; entrepreneur Juan Celaya for the "Lifelong Career" award; the ikastolas (Basque language schools) of Lodosa and Sartaguda, for "Culture"; the cyclist Joane Somarriba for the "Sports" award; the Down's Syndrome Foundation of the Basque Country, for "Society"; former director of UNESCO, Federico Mayor Zaragoza, for the "Mirror in the world" award; and university professor and former Socialist cabinet minister, Ernest Lluch, for the "Special" cat- egory, were designated by the Board of Trustees of the Sabino Arana Foundation to receive the 12th annual Sabi- no Arana Awards. This gala cultural event, which took place at 12:00 on January 28th at the Arriaga Theater in Bilbao, was presided by Lehendakari Juan José Ibarretxe, and was attended by numerous representatives of the political, social, cultural, and sports scenes of the Autonomous Community of the Basque Country. ●

THE COUNCIL OF EUROPE'S HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSIONER, ALVARO GIL ROBLES, VISITED EUSKADI

In addition to a message of "solidarity", he brought a message of "firmness"in defense of human rights

During his two-day stay, he kept a tight schedule, which allowed him to meet with the Lehendakari, several councillors, the president of the Basque Par- liament and different representatives in the legislature, in addition to groups of victims of terrorism and different associations and groups working for peace in Euskadi. Outside of his official agenda, he also met with the families of prisoners. The Human Rights Commissioner described the human rights situation in Euskadi as "atrocious" and denied that he had come to mediate, while stating that dialog is the responsibility of the institutions. The main objective of his visit was to prepare a report on the current situation of the Basque Country, which will be submitted to the Council of Europe. ●

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P E R S O NALITIES Pertsonalitateak

FRANCESCO COSSIGA, FORMER PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF ITALY, RECEIVED THE "LAGUN ONARI" AWARD FROM THE LEHENDAKARI

The award honors his "proven friendship with the Basque people"

On January 29th, a solemn ceremony was held at the Palace of Ajuria Enea, where the former president of Italy received the "Lagun Onari" award before the entire Basque Government.

During the former Italian leader's three-day visit, he was also honored with the "Friend of the Basques" award by the Sabino Arana Foundation. Francesco Cossiga also paid an emotional visit to the village of Gernika, where he placed a crown of flowers before the sacred oak tree to commemorate the victims of the bombing that took place there. During the event, the Lehendakari also made mention of Francesco Cossiga's career, describing him as a "great defender" of the Basque cause and champion of dialog for resolving conflicts. "You", said the rich in ideals, intelligence, business ability and work, Lehendakari, "have always defended the idea that the naturally peaceful and faithful". terms "victory" and "defeat" get one nowhere. We all Throughout his visit, Cossiga constantly made must win, and to achieve this, we all must talk". reference to the current political situation in the Basque Cossiga thanked the Basque Government for such Country. Thus, during the awards ceremony in Ajuria- a distinguished honor, which he referred to as the Enea, his speech served to condemn terrorism. He "coronation" of his personal efforts in favor of described the current situation in Euskadi as a democracy and freedom. He spoke of Euskadi as a "land "tragedy", stating that "violence and terrorism kill not only the bodies of the victims, but also the souls of those committing such acts, are an offense to the fight for freedom, and threaten to dim or even extinguish the light of the ideals that they invoke".

"Lagun Onari"

The "Lagun Onari" award had previously been granted to Julio Sanguinetti (1997) and Eduardo Frei (1998), then presidents of Uruguay and Chile, as well as Pro- fessor William Douglass (1999), coordinator of Basque Studies at the University of Nevada, months before his retirement. ■ The entire Basque Government was present at the event. 9 E.ETXEAK montaje ENG 3/5/01 16:09 P‡gina 10

Pertsonalitateak PERSONALITIES

The Catalonian Government receives part of its history from the Sabino Arana Foundation

The Foundation kept documents concerning the Generalitat's activities during the period from 1936 to 1939

On February 9, the President of the Generali- tat (autonomous government of Catalonia), Jordi Pujol, received on behalf of the Catalo- nian government the documentary archives regarding this government's activities during the Spanish Civil War, which have been kept all these years by the Sabino Arana Founda- tion.

The event was held at the Basque Nationalism Archive Headquarters located in the Biscayan town of Artea. Both the presidents of the Sabino Arana Foundation (Andoni Olabarri) and the Catalonian Ramón Frías Foundation (Pere Esteve) and the Lehendakari and Pres- ident Pujol took part.

The document used at the event as a sample of the archives being donated was the last handwritten letter by President Lluis Companys, dated August, 1940. Juan José Ibarretxe and Jordi Pujol, Lehendakari After receiving the document, the Catalonian president and President of Catalonia, February, 2001. expressed his gratitude to the Foundation for having preserved these documents, which have "sentimental value, in addition to their historical importance". Fur- thermore, Pujol stated that "a way to reciprocate would be by appealing to dialog and understanding between institutions".

The Catalonian foundation has agreed to organize a series of activities aimed at sharing the contents of these documents through exhibits, publications, conferences, etc., in both Catalonia and Euskadi.

In harmony with each other President Pujol's schedule in Euskadi allowed him to meet with Lehendakari Ibarretxe at Ajuria Enea Palace in the morning, before they both traveled to Artea. The encounter between the two leaders gave the Lehen- dakari the chance to share his three-fold commitment firsthand with the Catalonian president, who expressed his support for the initiative and seemed to be in both personal and political harmony with Ibarretxe. For his part, the Lehendakari described the agreement adopted by the Catalonian Parliament the previous Thursday as "an example" to follow in Euskadi. The agreement, which was adopted unanimously, calls for dialog between all political parties and the collaboration of all institutions in the fight against ETA. ■ Lluis Companys and José Antonio de Aguirre, Catalonian President and Lehendakari, fall of 1937. 10 E.ETXEAK montaje ENG 3/5/01 16:09 P‡gina 11

P E R S O NALITIES Pertsonalitateak

The Secretary of State of Idaho calls for the U.S. to mediate in Euskadi

He traveled to Euskadi to receive the Sabino Arana Foundation's "Basques around the world" award

The Basque press echoes an article published by mutual friend, Senator Larry Craig, appealing to other the daily paper "The Idaho Statesman", regarding the western senators with Basque communities. visit that Pete Cenarrusa made to the Basque Country "If the US is getting directly involved in the at the age of 83. Pete Cenarrusa's idea is to make Palestinian and Irish conflicts, why wouldn't they get another attempt to get the United States directly involved in ours, which has been on the table for more involved in the Basque conflict. than thirty years?", wondered Mr. Cenarrusa. He says he is convinced of the need for Cenarrusa has set his sights on this project, and international mediation. In fact, he soon plans to finish hopes that the US Administration will listen to "the consulting with Carter and his former staff, according other version" of the Basque conflict through trusted to the American paper. "If I helped the Basque Country members of the Republican party. before, during Franco's dictatorship, how could I not do The editorial published in "The Idaho Statesman", so now?", asks this Bachelor in Agriculture by the signed by journalist Dan Popkey, reviews the latest University of Idaho. "The Basque conflict needs a events in the assassination of Ernest Lluch, the funeral mediator, and I believe it could be the United States", following that November attack and the placard he says confidently. "Dialog now!". ■ Several years ago, Pete Cenarrusa and Roy Eiguren, an influential lawyer of Some of his declarations Basque origin in the state of Idaho, asked ● Dialog is the only path for achiev- this state's former ing peace. governor, Cecil Andrus, whether it ● The Basque people do not want would be possible to violence; they want to live in peace have former presi- and freedom. The only way is for dent Jimmy Carter everyone to meet and negotiate. act as a mediator. ● I was born euskaldun, I grew up This time, the idea is euskaldun, my ama taught me to try again, with euskera, and if euskera dies, either Carter or ano- I don´t want to live. ther intermediary. ● It's not difficult to be Basque in According to America. We are held in high "The Idaho States- esteem there. man", the way to go would be to consult ● The Basque conflict needs a media- Vice President Dick tor, and I think it could be the U.S. Cheney through a

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Erreportaiak ARTICLES

THE SAHARAWIS DEMAND THE RIGHT TO SELF-DETERMINATION

On February 26th, an extensive Basque delegation made up of politicians and NGOs left for Tinduf to cel- ebrate the 25th anniversary of the proclamation of the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR).

This is not the first time that the Basque Country has supported the Saharawi people, who were expelled from their country twenty-five years ago and are living in extremely precarious conditions in refugee camps located in southwestern Algeria. After being a Spanish territory until 1975, the area was annexed by Morocco, forcing its population mentary spokesman for the Basque Nationalist Party into exile and desolation. Abandoned by Spain, the for- (PNV) in Madrid. Representing the Basque Government, mer colonial power, the SADR did, however, find strong which has always supported the cause of the Saharawis, support and solidarity in all of the Autonomous Com- was Iñaki Aguirre, Secretary General for Foreign Action. munities, especially the Basque Country and the Canary Several Basque NGOs that support the Saharawi people Islands, its closest neighbor. That explains the large dele- with solidarity projects were also present: Friends of the gation from the Basque Parliament, led by its President, SADR, Hirugarren Mundua eta Bakea, etc. Juan María Atutxa; Nekane Alzelai, 2nd Secretary of the After 25 years of waiting and suffering, 15 spent Table (EA); Txomin Aurrekoetxea (PNV); President of the in war and the other 10 amid a fragile cease-fire, the national parliamentary intergroup Friends of the Sahara; Saharawi population is tired of enduring such indignities Carmen Asiain (PSE-EE); Esther Agirre (EH); Mertxe as agreements not respected by Morocco and waiting Agúndez (Ararteko). For unknown reasons, Carmelo for a referendum that has been postponed several times Barrio (PP) and Enriqueta Benito (UA) did not attend. It by the UN. "The only positive thing about the UN's is worth pointing out that in the case of the Saharawis, all presence", said our guide, "is that they have taken a of the political parties represented in the Basque Parliament census of the population entitled to vote in the consul- acknowledge the SADR's right to self-determination. tation process about the future of our country. Howev- Also in attendance were Josu Bergara, President of er, Morocco, as could be expected, does not accept this the Biscayan government, and Iñaki Anasagasti, parlia- official United Nations count, just as it does not accept allowing us to freely decide what we want to be".

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ARTICLES Erreportaiak

President Mohamed Abdelaziz welcomed the Basque delegation to a long interview, where we were able to exchange opinions, and explained the current situation in great detail, describing the discouragement of the population and their lack of confidence in MINUR- SO, the UN mission in charge of organizing the referen- workers, but also deeply understands the sentiments of dum included in the peace plan. This mission was sup- the Saharawi population and its legitimate right to self- posed to end in early February, but has been extended determination and freely deciding its future. until April 30. Throughout our visit, we were able to see how people knew us and recognized us as a nation, how Above all, the different leaders we were able to they appreciated the different cooperation projects converse with stressed Spain's absolute neglect of their financed with Basque funds, and how they showed cause. "Neither Aznar's government nor the previous their affection for the entire Basque society for the sup- governments of the PSOE or UCD have done anything port shown for so many years. to solve the conflict in their former colony. Furthermore, the European Union would be willing to intervene in The situation in the western Sahara is tense; the the matter, but because the Spanish government says population is calling for immediate solutions after all nothing, they dare not define a common position. Quite these years of waiting and frustration, and demands different was Portugal's reaction in East Timor, which recognition of its legitimate right to freely decide its was invaded by foreign forces just like our country, in future. this case by Indonesia. Until the invading troops were During our stay, we heard the beating of many withdrawn, the Portuguese government made every war drums. Now we must trust that the UN and its spe- effort to condemn this flagrant attack on the inviolabil- cial envoy, James Baker, will make the final move to pre- ity of a country's borders before international organiza- vent such a tremendous tragedy, which could do away tions and public opinion". with this small nation. ■ This comment, by an SADR Minister also weary of IÑAKI AGUIRRE so much injustice accumulated over twenty-five years, clearly sums up the prevailing opinion of the Saharawi population regarding Spain: "They colo- nized us and then they abandoned us". Economic interests, the fishing agreement with Morocco, and the unusu- ally good relations between the two governments may explain this astounding diplomatic inhibition, but they certainly do not justify it. However, the Madrid government's inaction is partly remedied by the extraor- dinary solidarity shown by almost all of the Autonomous Communities, especially the Basque Country, which not only helps with material and human resources, both at the institutional level and with volunteer

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Erreportaiak ARTICLES

THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE CLAMOR FOR PEACE IN VITORIA-GASTEIZ AFTER BEING SUMMONED BY THE BASQUE BISHOPS

On January 13th, more than 50,000 people met around the Basílica de San Prudencio, in Armentia (Vitoria-Gasteiz) to answer the call of the Basque bishops to participate in a march for peace.

The event began with a gathering across from the Sebastián, Juan María Uriarte, summarized in eleven Basílica de San Prudencio, followed by a march behind points "the main characteristics of the kind of peace a placard reading "Peace by all and for all. Guztion we want and the obstacles most obstinately opposed artean Bakea guztion alde". The meeting continued at to it". Mendizabala field, with an act of prayer presided by Among these points, the bishops mention the the Archbishop of Pamplona, Fernando Sebastián; the right to life, their request for ETA to lay down its arms, prelates of Bilbao, San Sebastián and Vitoria, Ricardo remembrance of the victims of terrorism, integration Blázquez, Juan María Uriarte and Miguel Asurmendi; into society of those who use violence, respect for dif- and the auxiliary bishop of Bilbao, Carmelo Echenagu- ferent concepts of society, rejection of manipulation for sia. Finally, a message was read, sent expressly for this political objectives, defense of dialog, forgiveness and purpose by Pope John Paul II, urging the Basque reconciliation, and self-criticism for not having worked churches to promote "unity and reconciliation, reject- hard enough for peace. ing all kinds of violence, terror and blackmail". Politicians took part in the march, mingling with During the prayer, the Basque church asked ETA the rest of the participants. Representatives of all polit- "to lay down its arms once and for all" and urged ical formations except EH attended for personal rea- politicians to "use dialog to seek paths to a stable sons. Labor, business and pacifist organizations also peace". The prayer, according to the Bishop of San participated. 14 E.ETXEAK montaje ENG 3/5/01 16:10 P‡gina 15

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Ekitaldiaren une garrantzi- tsuena otoitzarena izan zen. Hona hemen bakearen alde egin zen otoitza.

PRAYER FOR PEACE

1- God wants us to live in peace. Peace is also pos- the right to be our sole representative. We do not sible among us. We want it now. A peace for all want anyone to exclude anyone. We commit to and achieved by all. We do not want anyone to seeking a true peace for all. prevent or delay it. We commit to working for 7- We believe in the pacifying force of truth. We peace in truth, justice and love. reject lying as a strategy, and manipulating the 2- We love life as a sacred gift from God and the truth to serve political interests. We believe in the first right of man, whoever and wherever he may liberating virtue of truth. be. We do not want anyone to kill anyone. We 8- We believe in the need for dialog to search for ask ETA to lay down its arms once and for all. We paths of understanding and stable peace. We commit to defending the lives of all people. need and want our political representatives to 3- We remember before God, Father of all, all those use dialog and work together for the benefit of who have died victims of violence, here among us all. We commit to promoting a social climate of or far from this nation. They are much loved by us. dialog, born of respect and mutual listening. We commit to remaining close to all those who are 9- We demand the social force of forgiveness to mourning their deaths, and to those who now live edify our lives together. We do not want resent- plagued by fear, threats or extortion. ment and hate to chain us to the past. We com- 4- We also pray to God for those who, causing mit to promoting a collective experience of mutu- death, terror and destruction, are doing so much al forgiveness and reconciliation. harm. They are still the children of God and our 10- We all need the forgiveness of God. We all need brothers. We want to have them among us build- to forgive and to be forgiven. We ask God's for- ing a better society, released from the suffering giveness for our sins. We ask forgiveness for not they are causing and living. having worked hard enough for peace and 5- We believe in the ability of people and nations to against all injustices. We ask forgiveness of those find solutions to their conflicts on the paths of we have not defended or helped through the peace. We do not want violent impositions, spirit of the gospel. contrary to the free sentiment of society. We 11- We believe in peace, achievement of men and commit to promoting democratic behaviors and gift from God. We commit to working and pray- channels in freedom. ing without rest for peace. Encountering God 6- We respect the diversity of options for building gives peace and helps build it. Lord, convert our our society. We do not want anyone to assume hearts, and give us Your PEACE!.■

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BASQU E YOUTH 2000

In order to develop effective policies directed at the young, it is necessary to become familiar with their reality. Thus, the Office of Youth and Community Action of the Basque Government's Department of Culture ordered a new sociological study in the year 2000. This study was designed and coordinated by the Office of Sociological Surveys of the Presidency, and the final report was written by the company Galdiker.

It was decided that a sample of 1,364 people tained in the different would be surveyed. This sample is representative of surveys compared, the the population residing in our Autonomous Commu- situation of the youth Gazte gehienek ez nity, between the ages of 15 and 29. In recent years, in the Basque Country dute nahi izaten gai the stage of life known as "youth" has been extend- is more favorable than politikoetan parte ed due to the increased number of years spent study- in the rest of Spain, as hartzerik ing and the difficulties of accessing the job market unemployment is only and acquiring a home of one's own, which has half as high (12.9% caused a juvenilization of our society. and 25%, respective- The study touched on very different aspects of ly). However, once jobs are found, the conditions of their reality, which we will summarize below. the contracts offered are not always desirable, and are often characterized by few hours, low salaries and Unemployment is still the greatest problem fac- little stability. ing our youth, in spite of the fact that our country has been experiencing a period of economic growth Because of these problems, the young find it dif- during the past few years. According to the data con- ficult to purchase a home of their own, and therefore continue to live with their family. Also, a significant number claim to be happy living at home. PREVAILING IDENTITIES They usually spend their free time with friends, AMONG BASQUE YOUTH mostly watching television and reading newspapers and magazines. (TOTALS) While they express a high degree of satisfaction with their personal lives, they still have their worries. 4,9 % Among these are unemployment, housing, terrorism, 7,8 % 30,9 % political problems, their studies, economic problems, 56,4 % and drugs. They don't like to participate in political affairs or position themselves ideologically as being on the right, left, or in the center. As far as their identity on the Basque-Spanish axis is concerned, more than half feel mostly Basque (graph 1), while pro-European sentiment is currently almost nonexistent. They show a marked lack of interest in public affairs, and assess their own situation and that of the Basque Country as fair. Violence (especially toward one's mate) is Spanish Basque strongly rejected by the young. So is violence for Basque - Spanish Don’t know No answer political purposes.

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As far as immigration is concerned, only a third Euskaraz hitzegin are in favor of allowing beharko litzatekeela immigrants to enter the dioten arren, joera country with no restric- nagusia gaztelaniaz tions. hitzegitea da More than half understand euskera and almost half can speak it fairly well or correctly. However, Spanish is still the main language used for communication, even among those who know Basque. Gipuzkoa (Guipúzcoa) is where both languages are spoken most equally. However, there is a clear belief in bilingualism: almost eight out of ten choose this option when asked which language should be spoken in their territory. For most young people, sexuality is important. However, it is still experienced differently by males and females. Young women still preferably associate it with love, feelings and caution, while young men In conclusion, employment, leaving home, and associate it more with their mate, fun, and the sexual housing are the three main headaches facing the act. The subject is still taboo in one out of four Basque youth in the year 2000. The strong feeling of homes. identity as Basques and the support of the Basque language are their most distinctive elements. ■

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of Science is the area presented to MIRAMON'S KUTXAESPACIO the public with the name "Mate- riales Sorprendentes" (Surprising SCIENCE MUSEUM, REFLECTING Materials). Here, both adults and children will delight in observing THE MODERNITY OF EUSKADI and interacting with liquid crystals, magnetic liquids, self-lubricating materials and alloys with a "memo- ry". These materials, which are Located at the Miramón Tech- some of the strangest in the world, can stimulate the imagination to nological Park in Donostia-San unexpected heights because of the Sebastián, this social project many possibilities they offer for han- by the Kutxa was opened on dling and working with them. January 18th, its main goal being to bring all citizens clos- Just as fascinating is the area "Chispas con Energía" (Sparks with er to the fascinating world of Energy), where numerous experi- science and technology. The ments show that electricity and Miramon Kutxaespacio Science magnetism are both expressions of Museum is a leisure park, but the same fundamental force, and also a privileged setting where are capable of working together to young and old alike, with spe- produce mechanical effects. This cial attention to the young, can section precedes another intriguing observe, experiment, test and area called "Sistemas Complejos" play with dozens of elements (Complex Systems), which offers that help to understand the multiple examples showing the greatness of experimental development of complex systems, knowledge and the latest thus named due to their unpre- "Mundo Mecánico" (Mechanical dictability and submission to the trends in the most advanced World). In this corner of the exhibit, laws of chaos. technological research. it is easy to learn about many com- The last three chapters of the mon phenomena we encounter dai- Miramon Kutxaespacio Muse- Permanent Exhibit at the Miramon ly. The exhibits speak to us of forces, Kutxaespacio Museum of Science um of Science is designed to help us movements, inertias and gyrations discover and comprehend the world are entitled "Comunicación" (Com- that form part of our everyday expe- munication), "El Jardín de los Ele- around us, and is presented to the riences. public with an extensive Permanent mentos" (The Garden of the Ele- Exhibit made up of more than 150 Under the title "Juegos de ments) and "Txikiklik". The first two experiments, games and demon- Luz" (Games of Light), one enters a include a large number of experi- strations. Soon it will also be possi- room especially designed for con- ble to visit the Planetarium and the ducting experiments with light, Astronomical Observatory. which allow visitors to connect with the most spectacular light-related PERMANENT EXHIBIT phenomena. The Permanent Exhibit at the No less appealing is a section Miramon Kutxaespacio Museum of called "Sentido y Sensibilidad" Science is an extensive journey (Sense and Sensibility), where we through curiosity, experimentation can find experiments that show us and entertainment. The "Nave Tie- the difficulties and errors we some- rra" (Ship Earth) section is located times commit while interpreting our here, where different experiments perceptions through our senses. The including floods of light, geysers, air exhibit allows us to have fun with and water help us comprehend the the "tricks" that our senses of sight, direct relationship between human hearing, touch and smell can play beings and the planet where we on us at any time. live. One of the most spectacular The museum's permanent dis- places in the Permanent Exhibit at play also includes a section called the Miramon Kutxaespacio Museum 18 E.ETXEAK montaje ENG 3/5/01 16:11 P‡gina 19

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THE PLANETARIUM DINOSAURIA 2001

With 40 slide projectors, three In parallel with the inaugura- video tubes, first-quality digital tion of the Miramon Kutxaespacio sound, numerous special effects and Museum of Science, "Dinosauria a "Digistar II" star projector, con- 2001" was opened in the exhibit stantly upgraded via the Internet, room. This exhibit includes more the Planetarium at Miramon Kutxae- than twenty dinosaurs, jointed and spacio Museum of Science, which life-sized, which accurately repro- will soon be opened to the public, is a magical place to understand and even "travel" through the heavens. Inside, the public loses all track of time and space to experience numerous adventures while immersed in a semi-spherical screen 14 meters in diameter, where the most varied contents are projected. The Planetarium allows us to gaze at the heavens just like a sailor in need of guidance. It helps us to imagine, for example, the view of the firmament available to ancient civilizations, and allows us to admire the stars just like the most advanced scientists of today.

THE ASTRONOMICAL duce the fascinating customs of OBSERVATORY ments, games and demonstrations these animals. related to information technologies, The Miramon Kutxaespacio In addition to these magnifi- featuring the four main elements Museum of Science will complete its cent and majestic reproductions, making up the cosmos. range of entertainment and educa- displayed in a setting perfectly tional activities with the opening of reproducing a prehistoric jungle, the TXIKIKLIK the Astronomical Observatory, the exhibit "Dinosauria 2001" also fea- ideal place to view images of gas tures abundant paleontological evi- "Txikiklik" allows children to clouds, the remains of supernovas, dence of the existence of dinosaurs, have fun while bridging the gap star formation areas and far-off their evolution over more than 150 between their daily lives and the galaxies. When these observations million years and also their mysteri- worlds of science and technology. In are made at night, the images are ous demise. a stimulating, informal and dynamic recorded and shown to the public atmosphere, the child is invited to throughout the day. The sophisticat- search for the unknown in the famil- MUSEUM HOURS ed technological equipment at the iar and to discover the basic princi- Miramon Kutxaespacio Muse- Observatory allow these images to ples of science and technology. In um of Science will be open from be displayed with the same quality "Txikiklik", kids will find elements of Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 A.M. to found in live observations. their daily lives in playful surround- 6 P.M. On Sundays and holidays, it ings where humoristic language pre- The Astronomical Observatory will be open to the public from 11 vails and a fascinating game of con- will pay special attention to astro- A.M. to 6 P.M. ■ nections helps them understand nomical ephemerides, such as the some surprising concepts. While passing of comets, meteor showers, enjoying this area, young visitors to eclipses or planetary conjunctions. the Miramon Kutxaespacio Museum From this Observatory, the public of Science will exercise their prob- will be able to follow the phases of lem-solving skills, obtain positive Venus, enjoy the movements of experiences and discover relation- Jupiter's moons or admire the beau- ships and interdependencies that ty of the rings of Saturn, all with they are sure to find fascinating and excellent image quality and revealing. extremely accurate tracking. 19 E.ETXEAK montaje ENG 3/5/01 16:11 P‡gina 20

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The Basque Parliament approves the Charter of Social Rights

ALL PERSONS WITH NO RESOURCES SHALL RECEIVE A SUBSISTENCE BENEFIT

The Basque Parliament has passed a Charter of Social Rights which allows people with no economic income to receive a monthly subsistence benefit of 63,082 pesetas, equivalent to 75% of the minimum wage, which amounts to an increase of just over 12,000 pesetas with respect to the similar benefit (known as the IMI) previously in effect. The beneficiaries will be persons belonging to households with a monthly income below that amount. If the household consists of more than one beneficiary, the first will receive 75% of the minimum wage, the second 25%, and the third and subsequent beneficiaries 10%, with a limit of 125% of the minimum wage. In order to avoid discrimination against families with five or more members who receive the benefit, this limit may be exceeded in those cases established by Basque Gov- ernment regulations. This has been the culmination of an initiative that people searching for their first job, today women reached the Basque legislature backed by 83,000 signa- between the ages of 25 and 44, with dependent fami- tures, though its promoters have described the final lies, are those most suffering from the impact of unem- result as a "deception". ployment. On the other hand, the parties that supported Some aspects of the social charter Ekimenaren susta- this law emphasized the tzailea gizartea bera "consensus" obtained ● Beneficiaries: izan zen, 83.000 while working on it, as Those registered in the census of any municipal district in sinadura jaso bait well as its "progressive" the Basque Country who lack resources. zituzten nature and the way it ● Basic income benefit: "improves upon" the bultzatzaileek The law establishes a basic monthly benefit of 63,082 current benefit system. pesetas for those persons who are unable to cover their The social charter was basic needs. passed with the full support of the Basque Nationalist ● Improvement over the IMI Party, People's Party, Socialist Party and Álava Unity, and The amount approved increases the previous benefit opposed by the United Left. All parties who voted in (IMI) by 12,000 pesetas. The IMI has been replaced by favor of the charter called it a "step forward" and the subsistence income benefit starting January 1, 2001. described it as progress in the fight against social exclu- ● sion. Lehendakari Ibarretxe referred to it as "the most Grassroots legislative initiative advanced regulation in our political and economic envi- The People's Legislative Initiative that reached the ronment regarding social matters". Ibarretxe stressed Basque legislature in December, 1996, was backed by that the charter is "a document not only concerned 83,000 signatures. with economic development", because, as he stated, ● Promoters and some labor unions do not approve "it is essential to build a solidary country". The promoters of this initiative and some labor unions, such as ELA and LAB, have rejected the text approved, Most of the people currently receiving the IMI are considering the amount insufficient. They have women, who make up 62.7% of the total. This statistic expressed a willingness to keep their demand for a reflects a new trend in social exclusion. Whereas unem- decent subsistence income alive on the political and ployment benefits in 1994 mostly focused on young social agenda. 20 E.ETXEAK montaje ENG 3/5/01 16:11 P‡gina 21

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This year marks the anniversary of several decisions that shaped the history of the metric track railroad in Euskadi, and therefore of the state-run company EuskoTren, which belongs to the Basque Government Department of Transportation and Public Works, and Basque government has made a decision that will prove to be extremely significant. This year also marks the Centennial of the beginning of the Bilbao – Donostia railroad service, the 75th Anniversary of the Urola Railroad, and the 75th Anniver- sary of the La Reineta Funicular Railway. As the best possible tribute to its railroads, the Basque government has approved the implementation of STRATEGIC PLAN EuskoTren XXI. This Strategic Plan clearly embodies the Basque government's belief in public transportation, and partic- ularly in the railroad. This objective by the Basque government will force EuskoTren to establish its role in new settings, defined by: a public passenger transportation service in keeping with a demanding society's need for mobility; a place in the cargo market, defined by quality and security, and a leading role in the new railroad network. EuskoTren is therefore being called upon to satisfy the transportation needs of the Autonomous Com- munity of the Basque Country, promoting integration and relations between territories and population centers and allowing for more harmo- nious, environmentally-friendly development. In addition to its goals regarding cargo transport, EuskoTren is also facing two other important challenges to start off the twenty-first century: promoting and participating in the implementation of tramway transportation systems, also known as light rail, in high-mobility urban and nearby areas; and "intercity" railroad transportation services between the cities of Bilbao, Donostia and Vitoria-Gasteiz, through the Basque Country's New Railroad Network, which will be implemented over the next 12 years. The actions proposed, valued at 161,860,000,000 pesetas, would provide the community with a highly functional and operational railroad service, as far as safety and quality are concerned, in which 40% would run on double tracks (compared to 15% today), a figure more in keeping with the considerable volume of traffic handled. ■ 21 E.ETXEAK montaje ENG 3/5/01 16:11 P‡gina 22

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27,000 people demonstrated in Pamplona demanding the repeal of these laws

The Government of Navarre adopts restrictive measures on the use of the Basque language in that community

The waters of euskera and peace in Navarre have been rough since the government presided by Miguel Sanz passed a package of restrictive measures eliminating the use of the linguae navarrorum on road signs and official forms. It also decided that even foreign languages such as English, French or German will be valued under similar or better conditions than Basque for the purposes of obtaining employment with the government of Navarre and its autonomous organizations.

The latest Decree passed by "Miguel Sanz and his party (UPN, encompasses the greatest number the government of Navarre, con- the group representing the People's of Basque speakers in Navarre) ends cerning the use of euskera in the Party in Navarre) see the Basque lan- up disappearing and the Basque- government of that autonomous guage as an enemy to be fought, speaking zone effectively becomes a community, has been described as a rather than wealth to be promot- mixed zone". "full-scale attack on the survival of ed". the Basque language in Navarre" Under the new regulations, and "attempt to relegate the lin- The decree passed by the Gov- euskera practically disappears from guae navarrorum to obscurity". At ernment of Navarre is a step back- the road and building signs located the end of a demonstration held last ward with respect to the current in a large part of Navarre, and runs February to demand the repeal of Basque Language Law, which the risk of disappearing in the rela- the decree, Patxi Oyarzábal and José divides Navarre in three linguistic tions between Basque speakers and Ramón Amorós, mayors of Baztán zones called the Basque-speaking the autonomous administration, and Aranaz, respectively, read a zone, the mixed zone and the non- due to the new obstacles and "spe- document signed by 55 of the 62 Basque zone. This zoning, criticized cial" (longer and more complex) mayors of the Basque-speaking area from the beginning by Navarre's procedures which must now be of Navarre. In the document, they euskaltzal entities and groups, only endured by any citizens wishing to criticized these measures, which recognizes the co-official status of exercise the civil rights acknowl- they feel are not "geared towards euskera in the Basque-speaking edged by law that allow them to standardizing the use of Basque in zone, partially in the mixed zone, carry on their dealings with the Navarre, and are mainly aimed at and acknowledges no linguistic administration in euskera. In the giving Spanish absolute dominance, rights for Basque speakers in the so- spirit of the decree, the Govern- displacing and excluding Basque called non-Basque zone. "With the ment of Navarre has also adopted from official and daily use". Reflect- new measures adopted by de Sanz's an agreement by which knowledge ing a widely-held opinion among administration", explain the groups of English, French or German will be euskaltzal groups, member of Par- cited, "the mixed zone (which valued as merit points, as official liament Begoña Errazti stated that includes the capital, Pamplona, and languages of the European Union, 22 E.ETXEAK montaje ENG 3/5/01 16:11 P‡gina 23

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27.000 lagun bildu ziren Iruñako kaleetan euskararen aurkako erasoak salatzeko

along with different initiatives to file complaints in European courts, a total of eleven different lawsuits have been filed in the administrative division of Navarre's High Court of Justice against the reform implemented by Sanz: lawsuits filed jointly by the political parties IU, EA, PNV in any offer or provision of employ- eliminate that Office and assign its and Batzarre; by the Euskara Foun- ment in the regional administration tasks to the Office of Universities, dation, a cultural association and its autonomous organizations, and appointed a person who speaks involved in defending the Basque specifying that the assessment of only Spanish to direct it. After language and culture; by the labor euskera for merit points will be reg- replacing the bilingual signs, all unions ELA, LAB, STEE-EILAS, ESK ulated "when appropriate or con- signs in the new department in and EHNE, also jointly; by the labor sidered", depending on the zone charge of Linguistic Policy are in union CCOO on its own; by 58 corresponding to the job, so that Spanish. municipal governments from the aforementioned European In addition to the demonstra- Navarre, and by six private citizens. ■ Union languages will always be val- tion held February 24th, where JOSEBA ETXARRI ued in such cases, but not euskera. 27,000 people gathered in Pam- The decree, which includes plona to protest against the decree, such measures as the removal of bilingual signs to be replaced by signs in Spanish only, is already being applied in places as symbolic as the headquarters of the newly suppressed Office of Linguistic Poli- cy (in charge of the government's action concerning the Basque language). It just so happens that after Fernando Pérez de Viñaspre, Direc- tor of Linguistic Policy for this government, resigned several months ago, "due to the absence of the minimum conditions necessary to continue decently performing my duties", president Sanz decided to

Nafarroako Justizi Auzitegi Nagusian hamaika errekurtso jarri dira dagoeneko

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Erreportaiak ARTICLES CYBERDANCERS OF THE THIRD MILLENNIUM

The offense is remarkable. Cable and satellite television, hundreds of radio channels, the virtual revolution of the Internet, an overwhelming availability of movies and videos, the omnipresent paraphernalia of the multinational music companies, and the never-ending waves of new technologies that will sweep over us during this new millennium. In times like these, why in the world are we dancing? Traditional folk dances, from a country that doesn't even appear on the maps.

Perhaps it's because this multitude of influences organize a strong association that would articulate that burst into our lives go no further than entertain- their needs and defend their interests, each traditional ment. At the same time, something as simple and bod- dance group is making its way as best it can. ily as dance, with no technological arguments, adver- However, not everything has been negative. For tising capacity or multinational structures, manages to those groups enjoying continuity, the work of the past reactivate senses as elementary but essential as the decades has paid off, and many dantzaris have ability to feel, express, communicate and excite. If the achieved an extremely high level of physical and tech- dancing concerned is also traditional, we may find it nical expertise, surpassing anything seen previously. full of a mixture of accidental, intentional and perfect- Field work, research conducted in archives, ethnogra- ed remains of the ways previous generations lived, felt phies and the systematization of our folklore have left and expressed themselves. Every time we dance, we us important documentation on traditional Basque bring all of this back to life and contribute to its enrich- dancing. With the exception of the papers published in ment with our dancing. In Basque dancing, this lies in the journal Dantzariak, published by the EDB dantzari our rich musical and choreographic heritage, an age- federation (Euskal Dantzarien Biltzarra), the rest of this old tradition and a feeling of belonging to a communi- vast bibliography has been scattered among isolated ty; a sign of identity to help us find our place in the publications. vast world of globalization. A major compilation effort was the work "Invita- Basque dancing is an excellent common interest tion to the study of traditional dancing", published in shared by Basques all over the world. At the Basque 1998 by the Basque Government. This project, coordi- Centers, numerous dance groups have flourished, nated by the anthropologist Kepa Fernandez de Larri- which have given continuity to the Basque dantzari tra- noa, included the publication of a bibliographic com- dition. However, the everyday life of a dance group pendium on traditional Basque dancing that can be requires love, effort, dedication and a decent flow of consulted on the Internet at http://www.dantzan.com. documents and practical advice that one would think Recently, the publishing company Pamiela from would come from the Euskal Herria itself. Navarre published two extensive studies on traditional However, the truth is that the current situation of Basque dancing by the main researchers working in traditional dancing in the Basque Country is not very this field today. The tireless Juan Antonio Urbeltz, promising. After the massive interest in Basque danc- author of the lovely book Dantzak. Notas sobre las ing of the 60's and 70's, the 80's brought a definite danzas tradicionales de los Vascos (1978) and choreo- period of decline that lasted until the end of the mil- grapher of several captivating shows such as Zortziko lennium. Ignored by the media, barely taken into con- (1988), Alakiketan (1992) and Kondharian (1997), sideration by our institutions and without public favor, published a surprising study featuring a revolutionary the traditional dance groups in the Basque Country are interpretation of the symbols surrounding our dances barely surviving. After unsuccessfully attempting to and relating to sword and carnival dances: Sword 24 E.ETXEAK montaje ENG 3/5/01 16:12 P‡gina 25

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dances and their symbols. Marshes, insects and moors. On the other hand, the scholars Jesús Ramos, Emilio X. Dueñas, Mikel Aranburu, Jose Antonio Quijera and Kepa Fernandez de Larri- noa have worked together to publish their results in a novel book under the title Cultural Borders and Bridges. Tradi- tional dance and social identity. The Basque Country's association of txistu players is enjoying enviable health and activity, and continues publishing its magazine Txistulari, where, in addition to articles and current news from the world of this instrument, sheet music continues to occupy an impor- 1925ko dantzariak: Eibar, around 1925. Castrillo Ortuoste Fund. tant central position. The association (Eibar municipal archives). has a very complete web page, provid- ing access to a considerable amount of information: http://www.txistulari.com where in the world. A mailing list on traditional danc- Several albums of traditional dance music have ing in euskara is already operating at the address also been released recently. The dance group Kemen http://egroups.yahoo.com/group/dantzan, and forums from Irun has published a CD which includes dance on Basque dancing in Spanish (http://egroups.- melodies from all of the Basque provinces. The yahoo.com/group/danzavasca) and (English http://- Dantzari Federation of Bizkaia has edited a CD with egroups.yahoo.-com-/group/basquedance) are already music from the province's most famous dances. Along taking their first steps. these lines, several dance groups, txistulari bands and The Basque Government has already implement- music groups have published albums with traditional ed an initiative to respond to the needs of dance dance music. http:-//www.megadenda.com is one of groups working through the Basque Centers. The first the most complete virtual stores, featuring the Basque step was to obtain detailed information on these catalog where these new books and albums may be needs, which will be provided by a survey published in found. the Euskal Etxeak. The results of these questionnaires The Internet can facilitate access to material of will help prepare plans of action, although the first interest to dance groups, which is being published in impression points toward the idea of performing a an isolated, scattered manner in the Basque Country, compilation of music, sheet music, videos and docu- but that's not all it has to offer. It can also help mentation on Basque dances and costumes that could dantzaris from all over the world get to know each be published on a CD-ROM, which would be extremely ■ other and act as a channel for the exchange of infor- helpful to all dance groups. mation, debates, problem solving and finding ways to OIER ARAOLAZA respond to the needs of Basque dance groups any-

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BASQUE VOLUNTEER AWARD 2000

Iñigo Eguiluz, the Basque aid worker killed in Columbia in 1999, was honored posthumously as "Basque Volunteer 2000"

The award was received by his brother, who dedi- cated it to all volunteers who have lost their lives, their families and the NGOs. The Lehendakari, Juan José Ibarretxe, awarded this honor to Iñigo Eguiluz posthumously at an event held January 25th, attended by Iñigo's family and friends as well as the NGO Hirugarren Mundua eta Bakea, to which the deceased belonged. The Lehendakari stressed that Iñigo Eguiluz may be considered an example of the "solidarity, tolerance and commitment of the Basque youth". whom there is reasonable evidence of guilt. If the proceedings in Columbia prove fruitless, they intend to take Iñigo Eguiluz, solidarity with the Indians the matter to international courts. Iñigo Eguiluz, the young man from Bilbao who For this purpose, the Basque Government has worked in 1999 as a volunteer in the last phase of the signed an agreement with the NGO and the Columbian humanitarian aid project conducted by the NGO Hiru- diocese of the parish priest killed with Iñigo in order to garren Munduan eta Bakea in the region of Quibdó, was participate in the legal proceedings for the case. killed along with the parish priest of Bellavista, Jorge Luis Iñigo Eguiluz had been a volunteer since 1993, Mazo Palacio. and had worked with displaced Guatemalan popula- The case is currently under investigation. Though tions in Chiapas, with the rural exodus in Barrancaber- one person has been arrested, the private prosecution meja, and with the people moved in Chocó and Oriente lawyers will push for the arrest of all persons against Antioqueño, in Columbia. ●

"EXECUTIVE" AWARDS Euskadi, "Autonomous Community of the Year".

Last January, the Basque Government was rewarded for its work to further the region's social, economic and political development. The economic and business magazine "Ejecutivos" wished to underscore the progress experienced by this community during the year 2000, which has put the Basque Country at the top of the list of growth by region. This publication's jury stressed that "the Basque Country has always been an important point of reference within Spain's business community. Today, even though Euskadi is suffering from the difficulties we are all familiar with, Basque businessmen continue working tirelessly to make the Basque Country one of the most active business areas in Spain". The awards ceremony was attended by the Vice Lehendakari of the Basque Government, Idoia Zenarruzabeitia, who said "we must continue to seek an Euskadi full of progress, solidarity and entrepre- neurs". She also praised "the business community's commitment to the Basque Country, in spite of the difficulties everyone knows about". This eleventh annual awards ceremony also honored other personalities and organizations, including Romano Prodi, President of the European Council, who received the "Executive of the year 2000" award.●

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B A S Q U E CENTERS Euskal Etxeak

ETB's Basque Channel manages to where there is a considerable number of people of reach 2 million homes in the Basque origin. Americas in only 9 months For his part, Josu Jon Imaz stated that "Latin America is no longer just a traditional destination for Basque immigrants; it has become the second market for Basque foreign commerce, after the European Union. In this growing market, it is no coincidence that Basque exports to Latin America have increased from 36,000,000,000 pesetas in 1990 to 125,000,000,000 in 1999. In relative terms, in 1990 Latin America represented 6% of Basque exports, increasing to 8% of the total in 1999". The Managing Director of EiTB, Andoni Ortuzar, confirmed that "during this first year of life of the Basque Channel, we have found that there is indeed great interest in the Americas in a channel like ours. With information and entertainment contents and The Basque Channel, created for the Americas by European-quality programming, it speaks the language Euskal Telebista, managed to reach two million homes of the Americas and also has important exclusive rights in only 9 months of operation. Not only that, it is pre- in the area of sports". sent in every country in the Americas through a hundred cable operators and has become a point of reference for The Managing Director explained that "EiTB start- the Basque Centers scattered all over the Americas. ed its internationalization on December 31st, 1997, when ETB Sat was put into service in order to respond This information was released by the Managing to the unanimous demand of the Basque Parliament to Director of EiTB, Andoni Ortuzar, and the Director of extend its service to all Basques scattered around the EiTB Internacional, José Félix Azurmendi, to nearly a world. Since May 20th, 2000, EiTB's internationalization hundred advertising professionals and representatives of process has been progressing along two very important Basque companies and the university community, in an lines: First of all, we are splitting ETB Sat to differentiate event concluded by the spokesman and Secretary of between our broadcast for Spain, performed through Industry, Commerce and Tourism of the Basque Gov- Vía Digital, and the new Basque Channel. Secondly, we ernment, Josu Jon Imaz, and by the Secretary of Cul- are implementing the website eitb.com". ture, Mari Carmen Garmendia. Garmendia stressed the importance of the Basque Ortuzar has announced that "our next challenge is Channel as a link between the Basque culture and the now to have our programming broadcast in Europe. We rest of the world, and especially with the Americas, hope to make this dream come true this very year." ■

GORKA KNÖRR MET WITH ARGENTINEAN POLITICAL PERSONALITIES Buenos Aires.- The Member of the European Parliament representing Eusko Alkartasuna, Gorka Knörr, traveled to Argentina, where he participated in various activites, such as meeting with personalities from the country's political scene and representatives of Argentina's Basque community. Gorka Knörr met with one of the most important figures in Argentinean political life in recent years, former president Raúl Alfonsín, to whom he expressed his concern for the peace process in the Basque Country, his vision of the process, and his "deep concern about the way our absolutely legitimate political positions are warped by the media", according to Knörr. The EA representative also met with the President of the National Senate, Mario Losada, Senator Eduardo Menem, the Interior Minister, Federico Storani, and with legislators of Basque origin, Senator Horacio Usan- dizaga and Congressman José Gabriel Dumont, which whom he shared a luncheon at the National Senate. He asked them all for their collaboration in the conflict that the Basque Nation is experiencing. Knörr held different interviews with the Argentinean media, during which he described the situation of the Euskal Herria and the need to change its vision of the peace process. The country's Basque community was also active during Gorka Knörr's visit, and held conferences on the current situation in Euskadi at the Basque Centers in Buenos Aires and Rosario. At the latter, it also offered a con- cert at the request of the members of this Euskal Etxea, where it presented its seventh album. ● (Source: www.eitb.com) 27 E.ETXEAK montaje ENG 3/5/01 16:12 P‡gina 28

Euskal Etxeak BASQUE CENTERS

"I feel very grateful for having had this chance to learn euskera"

They gave up their New Year's vacations (summer in the southern hemisphere) to perfect their euskera in Euskadi. They started two, three or four years ago, and can already speak the language.They are Argen- tineans and Uruguayans between the ages of 19 and 30 who, one fine day, asked themselves "Why not?" and decided to learn the language of their elders.

Lazkao (Goierri gipuzkoano). deo, is the youngest in the group "It had never occurred to me Thirteen young people from the staying at the Maizpide barnetegi in to study it", she explains. "I had the program "Argentinan Euskaraz" Lazkao; Maki, 30, an architect born songs that my dad used to sing in have been staying at the Guipuz- in Cañuelas, province of Buenos my head, but I couldn't understand coan barnetegi (boarding school) of Aires, is the eldest. Each of the par- their meaning. To tell you the truth, Lazkao in the final stages of their ticipants has been studying Basque I started studying it almost as a studies of Basque, a language for two, three or four years and game. My friends had trouble "close to our hearts, but that we teaching what they have learned at understanding why I was so eager couldn't understand before" and their Euskal Etxea. Some, like Maki, to understand something that that "today, since we've learned it, say that, while her father and "wasn't going to do me any good", we see and feel differently". "It's uncles were born and raised as they said. But the truth is that not easy to explain, but as you learn "Argentinan euskaraz" (speaking from learning euskera, I started dis- euskera you realize that it's not just euskera in Argentina), the language covering many things about myself. the language, but the way different didn't reach their homes until this It even gave me some extra-special aspects of the culture and idiosyn- generation. To travel to Euskal Herria common ground with my father; crasies of a nation are immersed in for the first time in 1996, with together we reminisced about his the language that broaden and Gaztemundu, was an incentive for childhood experiences, had conver- enrich your world view. For me, it's her. She later approached cultural sations in euskera... I know I see it been both a discovery and a tribute groups in Buenos Aires, and when from a sentimental perspective, as to the past", said Maki Etchevers, the "Argentinan Euskaraz" pro- part of my identity, but for me it's one of the participants in the program was created in 1997, by virtue been like a gift, and I feel extremely gram, whose grandparents arrived of an agreement between the Fed- grateful for having had this chance in Argentina from Eiheralarre and eration of Argentine Basque Enti- to learn it". the Garazi area, in Lower Navarre. ties (FEVA) and the Institute for Iñaki Bilbao started learning History student Lucía Méndez, Adult Basque Literacy (HABE), she euskera in 1998. Born 22 years ago 19, from Haize Hegoa in Montevi- didn't think twice. in Necochea, with a family history

Otsailaren 23an Gasteizen izan zen argentinarren taldea, erakundeak bisitatzen Mª KARMEN GARMENDIAREKIN BILDU ZIREN EUSKO JAURLARITZAREN EGOITZA NAGUSIAN Lazkao goizean goiz utzi eta Gasteiz aldera abiatu zen taldea Eusko Jaurlaritzako egoitza nagusira bisita egitera. Goizeko hamarretan iritsi eta "Nire herria" diaporama ikusi ondoren Mari Karmen Garmendiarekin egoteko aukera izan zuten. Kultura sailburuak, horrela, HABE eta Kanpo Harremanetako Sailaren ardurapeko "Argentinan Euskaraz" programari bere laguntza adierazi zion. Ondoren, taldeak Gasteizko alde zaharra bisitatu zuen gidari batekin (Montehermoso jaure- gian jarritako euskarari buruzko erakusketa barne) eta bazkaldu eta gero Bilborako bidea hartu zuten, Guggenheim ikustera.

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B A S Q U E CENTERS Euskal Etxeak

in Beterri (Gipuzkoa) and Busturia immersed. First it was the (Bizkaia), Iñaki tells the story of dances, then I got involved in his great-grandmother and how cultural activities... Almost with- she was sent, at the age of fif- out realizing it, I was acquiring a teen, from Andoain (Gipuzkoa) very special feeling of belonging to Buenos Aires to search for a and commitment to a culture brother "who was supposedly in and a way of looking at the Argentina, as if Argentina were a world". In her opinion, and her tiny country", he says, repeating friends nod, "you gradually get the tale he heard so many times involved in the culture, either as a child from his great-grand- through the dances or other mother, who died years ago. Like activities at the Euskal Etxea, many of her countrymen who until you realize that you feel like emigrated to the Americas, she part of it. Once there, you discover spoke only euskera, and got along Euskara ondo ikasi gabe that euskera is like the heart that in that language upon arrival at the ez dugu itzuli nahi provides life to a good part of that port of Buenos Aires. She walked universe and that those feelings are into the first store she found with a important to you, so you decide to Basque name, a hat shop, where But, perhaps unconsciously, she get more involved with the Basque she immediately found employ- channeled her feelings regarding culture and language". ment. "For years she maintained a her identity and culture through her This process seems to be the steadfast friendship with the own- children and grandchildren, and same or similar to that experienced ers, to the point that one of the that fortunately lasted all the way by other members in the group. sons of that family eventually mar- to our generation, her great-grand- Among them are María Laura ried one of my great-grandmother's children. I feel proud, and I know Anzuinelli, from Santa Rosa, stu- daughters". she would be proud to see me dent of tourism, whose has ances- In his family, says Iñaki, the today, to be able to converse with tors from Bergara; Graxi Bakker, transmission of the Basque lan- me and find that we continue in from Mar de Plata, 21, housewife guage already faltered among the Argentina with the seed she and mother; and Analía Aguirre, first generation born in the Americ- instilled in us", he asserts. teacher in Pehuajó, 25, who has as, and his great-grandmother's Adrián Irigoitia, 22, a tour ancestors from Zestoa, Gipuzkoa. children spoke little euskera, except guide in Jujuy with a remote family The group also includes a musician, for some songs, and had limited history in Euskal Herria, "I think in Pablo Arbía, 20, student of Compo- comprehension. Basque sentiment Navarre", attends the same classes sition from La Plata, and a "cha- was maintained among the newer as Iñaki and Maki, as well as Caroli- cabucotarra" English teacher, generations, but not the language, na Aguirre, 26, who has a degree in Verónica Un-sain, 28. until now. Almost a century later, International Relations and was All of them are working Iñaki came along to recover that born in Rosario. Her grandparents towards the same goal concerning part of his cultural heritage. Iñaki is emigrated from Iurreta and Ziortza, euskera. First in their own coun- following in his sister, Maite's, foot- in Bizkaia. The different members tries, and now at the Euskal Herria steps. "She learned euskera in of the group are divided into differ- itself. Some, not content with only Argentina, too", he says. "Later, ent levels, from 4 to 10. Paola Bella, two or three months at the bar- four years ago, she came to Euskadi a chemistry student, comes from netegi, hope to obtain a grant that with this same program and stayed Montevideo, and has no blood ties would allow them to continue for six months. Today we take turns with Euskal Herria, but is now an studying and, as a final effort, pass teaching classes at Necochea. We euskaldun motu in her own right, the EGA (Euskararen Gaitasun have four groups learning euskera, as well as an active euskaltzale back Agiria, or language training diplo- two at the beginner's level and two home, like Victoria Famin, student ma). "Euskera is at the heart of the more advanced". of Letters in Paraná, and fellow Basque culture, and we want to When asked what prompted "montevideotarra", Lucía Méndez. make the most of our stay", say him to commit to learning the The girls' in situ experience with Maite, Victoria, Pablo, Lucía, Paola Basque culture and language, Iñaki Euskal Herria and its culture is prov- and Maki. None of them, or the rest explains that the fact that people ing to be "oso polita" (very nice) of the group, minded exchanging like his great-grandmother never "eta izugarri aberasgarria ikuspun- their summer vacation in Argenti- went back to Euskal Herria made tu guztietatik" (and terribly enrich- na-Uruguay for a winter at the bar- quite an impression on him. "My ing in every way). netegi in Euskal Herria. Beyond grandmother never went back", he In correct euskera, Lucía their words, their attitude, the says, "it was so hard for her to explains that she got involved in the sparkle in their eyes and the smiles leave her country that she never culture she is now adopting as her that light up their faces when they went back, but she wasn't denying own through some cousins whose describe their experiences make it her heritage; quite the contrary: she father is Basque. She started clear that they are satisfied with the had to make a life for herself in accompanying them to the Euskal path they've followed. ■ Argentina, and that's what she did. Etxea and "I gradually became JOSEBA ETXARRI 29 E.ETXEAK montaje ENG 3/5/01 16:12 P‡gina 30

Euskal Etxeak BASQUE CENTERS B R I E F NEWS

PROJECT URAZANDI The Office of Relations with Basque Associations is implementing a new initiative called "Urazandi" (beyond the seas), whose main objective is to compile the history of the fifteen main Basque centers in collection form. This initiative, which will be financed by the annual subsidies assigned to the Basque Centers, will be implemented during budget years 2001 and 2002, so that the collections are written and concluded by December 31, 2002 (oral testimonies by the subjects will also be attached). Urazandi will thus address an issue that academics from places such as the Uni- versity of the Basque Country and the University of Reno had warned was an urgent task. In fact, several university departments have started compiling documents and testimonies. The objective of the Office of Relations with Basque Associations was none other than to be able to present this Collection during the next Conference of Basque Associations (to be held in October, 2003), as a contribution from the Gen- eral Office of Foreign Action to the History of the Basque people. ■

HABE CONTINUES PRESENTING ITS Centers, held February 15th in San Francisco, and COMPUTER SYSTEM FOR LEARNING attended by the Director of Relations with Basque BASQUE ALL OVER THE WORLD Associations, Josu Legarreta. The Basque associations in Venezuela were the The computer learning system that HABE (Insti- next to receive hands-on instruction on the use of this tute of Basque Literacy for Adults, an agency of the program, as presentations were also held in Caracas Basque Government's Department of Culture) has and Puerto La Cruz. After this, Josu Legarreta and the recently implemented has been welcomed with great HABE specialist traveled to Miami, where they conclud- interest by the Basque Centers, where the presence of ed the round of visits. a teacher in the classroom may now be replaced by a At the Euskal Etxeak in Argentina, Uruguay and computer. Chile, the computers necessary to implement the pro- After introducing the system in Argentina, Chile, gram have already been installed. ■ Uruguay and different European countries, the coordi- www.habe.org nator of this pilot program, called HEZINET, has now traveled to the U.S., where the presentation was made during a meeting of the Federation of Basque

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B R I E F NEWS Laburrak

The Basque furniture company Etxenike, honored by the American Akaba receives the National Design Association for the Advancement of Award Science The Guipuzcoan furniture company The researcher Pedro Miguel Etxenike Akaba received the National Design has been named an honorary member Award at a ceremony presided by King of the American Association for the Juan Carlos. Advancement of Science (AAAS), the Akaba focuses on manufacturing fur- world's most prestigious scientific socie- nishings for large, high-traffic areas and ty, which publishes the journal Science. offices. Over the past few years, it has At its annual meeting, the Association produced furnishings for the Seville, Bil- awarded the Basque physicist for his bao and Cologne airports and the Bil- "contributions to the theory of the elec- bao subway. The company closed last tronic states of surfaces and volume year with sales revenues of ten million excitations, and for his pioneering stud- euros, and exports more than 50% of ies concerning the penetration of ions its products. ● and electrons into matter". Guascor creates a treatment plant The president of the Donostia Interna- for domestic oil tional Physics Center thus enters a select Guascor will invest 2.4 million euros in A Basque foundation conducts phar- club where only three other Spanish sci- macological research at the U.S. entists are members, not to mention Vitoria to build the first plant for treat- National Cancer Institute ing domestic vegetable oil. The new winners of the Nobel prize for Physics, facility will begin operating at the end of The Basque foundation Inbiomed, locat- such as Lederman, Weinberg, Chu and 2001, with capacity for treating 2,000 ed at the San Sebastián Technological Anderson. ● tons annually, to be expanded to 6,000 Park, has signed a contract with the U.S. in later plants. The process developed by National Cancer Institute (NCI) to con- Guascor will turn the vegetable oil into duct preclinical tests with antitumori- biodiesel fuel, to be used in the engines genic agents, oriented towards evaluat- created by this Basque company. ● ing their action against metastasis and angiogenesis, the revascularization process that nourishes the cancerous cells and allows the tumor to grow. This Irizar hopes to capture 50% of the is the first contract of these characteris- Spanish market with its new bus tics signed by the NCI with a European research group in the field of metastasis. The Guipuzcoan coachbuilder Irizar has invested more than 3,000,000,000 The Basque research center, created two pesetas in its new bus. Irizar PB is a new years ago, has signed agreements with generation of up-market vehicles with different multinational pharmaceutical which they hope to increase their mar- companies for the evaluation of experi- ket share in Spain from 35% to 50%. mental or already marketed drugs that The new model features more than 80 could be used against metastasis. innovations in safety, comfort, reliability Imbiomed has made important world- and profitability. The new bus has a wide discoveries, such as the role of cer- lower center of gravity, making it more tain inflammatory proteins in controlling La Rioja Alavesa invests stable. It also has an extremely robust the metastasis of melanomas and other 12,000,000,000 pesetas in wineries structure, which increases its resistance malignant tumors. The molecular tar- over two years to overturning, frontal impact and tor- gets identified as a result of these dis- sion by 30%, and its flexural rigidity by coveries has led this research group to Over the past two years, La Rioja 80%. In addition, its headlights provide create a new generation of drugs and Alavesa has invested nearly twelve bil- 50 meters more light than those on cur- diagnostic processes and computer-syn- lion pesetas in new installations. The rent buses. ● thesized drug designs for medically con- presence of the prestigious architectural trolling metastatic cancers such as firm working on the projects designed prostate, breast and colon cancers or for the wineries has become common- melanomas. For this purpose, Inbiomed place. Santiago Calatrava, Rafael has synthesized drugs capable of pre- Moneo and the Canadian Frank Gehry venting metastasis or selectively slowing have accepted proposals to work at the its growth in experimental models. vineyards in Álava. Their work will help Another program being developed by the area's already growing tourist boom the group involves chemoprevention for to really take off. The number of visitors creating agents to prevent chronic has been gradually increasing in recent ● inflammatory diseases, fibrosis and can- years. cer in high-risk persons. ● E.ETXEAK montaje ENG 3/5/01 16:12 P‡gina 32

Roughly 60,000 people demonstrated on March 10 in Portugalete to protest against ETA's latest terrorist attack, which killed Basque police officer Iñaki Totorika in a car bomb explosion in Hernani. The demonstration, convened by the Lehendakari and seconded by all political parties except HB, swept the streets of Portugalete with a placard reading "ETA ez, bakea eta askatasuna" carried by the Lehendakari, Inte- rior Minister Mariano Rajoy and political, labor union and social representatives. A demonstration in favor of life and dialog had been scheduled in Bilbao for that same day, but after the attack the Lehendakari decided to cancel it and call for a united demonstration in Portugalete, a decision that was well received by all political parties concerned.