Scotland may not be bidding to host the Olympics, but what would the likely implications be of London's success on our own back yard? The Centre for Cultural Policy Research, based at the University of Glasgow, today hosted a seminar examining the impact, on Scotland, of London's bid to host the 2012 Olympics.

Leading the debate were contributions from the following:

Patricia Ferguson MSP (Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport); Jude Kelly OBE (Chair of Culture and Education, London 2012); Dr Beatriz Garc￭a (Academic Fellow, CCPR); Dr Andy Miah (Lecturer, University of Paisley); Adrian Trickey (Administrative Director, Edinburgh International Festival); Fiona Hampton (Director, Highland 2007- Year of Highland Culture).

As one of three seminars held in Glasgow, Cardiff and London, this event addressed issues including: Scotland's current position in international and intercultural engagement, and the opportunities that a cultural and educational programme for the London Olympics could bring to this field.

Dr Beatriz Garcia explains: "The Olympic Games is recognised as the largest sporting event in the world today. However, its remit is supposed to go well beyond medal rankings to act also as a catalyst for intercultural dialogue within and outwith the host city and country. This seminar offers a platform for Scotland to engage in the debate and influence London's Olympic cultural and educational vision in the lead up to the final bid presentation and host city nomination taking place on the 6th July."

In order to address the Games intercultural aspirations, would-be host cities are requested to present a cultural and educational programme that complements and adds to the sport competitions. London is proposing an ambitious programme, but like so many former Olympic hosts, is faced with the challenge to find the right balance between international and intercultural dialogue, as well as between a city focus and a UK national remit. Placing the Olympic bid in the context of Scotland's world-renowned and emerging events, and the wider cultural community, brings an opportunity to respond to London's aspirations and move the debate forward to secure as wide an impact as possible from the bidding process and a possible Olympic hosting experience in 2012.

Kate Richardson (K.richardson@admin.gla.ac.uk)

For more information, and to speak to contributors at the conference, contact Beatriz Garcia on 0141 330 6804, or the University Press Office on 0141 330 3683

First published: 20 June 2005