The UNU Global Seminar is an annual programme designed to enhance international awareness among the student population in Japan through active interaction with scholars and experts working in the UNU's global networks. UNU Global Seminars have been held each year in the Kanto area since 1985 (Shonan Session), in the Kansai area since 1995 (Kobe Session) and in Okinawa since 1999 (Okinawa Session). This will be the inaugural year for two additional annual UNU Global Seminar sessions - a Shimane Session and this Hokkaido Session - bringing to five the total number of annual sessions.

Undergraduate students (junior year and above), those in postgraduate courses in Japanese universities, and recent graduates are eligible to apply. Applicants must understand both English and Japanese languages. The participation fee of JPY30,000, which includes seminar materials, meals, and lodging, may be waived for students from developing countries. Approximately 50 students will be selected to participate. Application forms are available from the UNU Global Seminar Secretariat (telephone: 03-3499-2811; e-mail: mbox@hq.unu.edu). Applications must be submitted to the Secretariat no later than 31 May 2000.

Keynote lecturers for this first UNU Global Seminar - Hokkaido Session will be Mr. Yasushi Akashi, Chairman of the Japan Center for Preventive Diplomacy, and Prof. Masayuki Yamauchi of the University of Tokyo. Other scheduled lecturers are Prof. Ruri Ito of Ochanomizu University; Prof. Teruki Tsunemoto of Hokkaido University; Asst. Prof. Renéo Lukic of Laval University; Prof. Dong Hoon Kim of Ryukoku University; Prof. Shinji Yokote of Keio University; Prof. Rikio Kaneko of Sapporo University; Mr. Hideaki Uemura, President of Shimin Gaikou Centre (Citizens' Centre for Diplomacy); and Prof. Toshikazu Aiuchi of Otaru University of Commerce. Ms. Mitsuko Ito of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan will discuss employment in international organizations.

Individual sessions will focus on "The Right of Self-Determination for Individuals and Groups," "The United Nations and Ethnic Issues," "State Borders and Ethnic Groups," and "Identity and Ethnic Issues."

The UNU Global Seminar - Hokkaido Session is organized by the UNU with support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, Ministry of Education of Japan, Hokkaido Government and City of Sapporo. Hokkaido University, Otaru University, Sapporo University, Sapporo Gakuin University, Hokusei Gakuen University, and Hokkai Gakuen University are collaborating to help plan and organize the seminar.