1. The Center for Socio-Economic Studies and Multiculturalism was created to promote
greater research, dialogue and awareness among the diverse cultures and backgrounds of
individuals involved in Romanian business, academia and social organizations.
The activity of the Center is to support research, train students, host lectures, seminars,
conferences and to disseminate its findings among young professionals, decision makers, and the
general public.
It is the position of the Center that multiculturalism and diversity are essential factors for
development and human welfare. Skills and knowledge often have a cultural specificity with
various people from diverse backgrounds possessing different culturally reinforced skills,
knowledge and experiences. When mutually relevant and interconnected, cultural diversity can
create an environment in which complementarity provides a significant advantage in the
development of establishing relationships and communication among people.
The Center approaches multiculturalism and diversity from an interdisciplinary perspective
based on anthropology, economics and organizational theory. It focuses on the role of
multiculturalism and diversity in innovation, entrepreneurship and economic growth.
National culture can be a field of reflection for both management theory and praxis. It offers
solutions at both organizational and individual level. The Center’s activity additionally focuses on
the nexus among national culture, management, leadership, innovation, business ethics, and
Corporate Social Responsibility.
The Center is part of the “Oamenii Cetatii” Foundation, which was founded in 2006 by
Professor Vasile Burlui PhD, in Iasi, Romania. The “Oamenii Cetatii” Foundation aims at
supporting the community in socio-cultural, economic and humanitarian activities. Throughout its
existence, the Foundation has organized events in the field of multiculturalism and community
integration of minorities, actions targeting disadvantaged social groups, and in the cultural field.
The founding members of the Center for Socio-Economic Studies and Multiculturalism are
Professor Vasile Burlui PhD (President of the Foundation), Liviu Warter (Deputy Director of the
Center) and Iulian Warter (Director of the Center). Management of the Center will be assisted by a
Board of Advisors, comprised of noted business, academic and community leaders. The members
of the board are currently being enlisted. An extensive range of additional collaborators will be
developed with experts in academia, business, and organizations involved with establishing public
policy.