integration conference nicosia - draft conference report
TRANSCRIPT
Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
CONFERENCE
REPORT Shaping and Implementing
The Role of Local and Regional Authorities and Communities
held in Nicosia on 20 November 2012 by the
the Framework of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU
March 2013
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
ONFERENCE
Shaping and Implementing Migrant Integration Policies:
The Role of Local and Regional Authorities and Communities
in Nicosia on 20 November 2012 by the Ministry of Interior of Cyprus
the Framework of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU
Integration Policies:
The Role of Local and Regional Authorities and Communities
Ministry of Interior of Cyprus within
SHAPING AND
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AND REG
“FILOXENIA
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Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
This report comprises the presentations,
up by the speakers and participants. Any findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed herein do not
necessarily reflect the views of the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Cyprus or any other participant party
or donor of the event. The presentation of material throu
opinion whatsoever on the part of the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Cyprus.
Publisher: Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Cyprus
Edited by: Constantinos Karmellos, Ministry of Interior
1453 Nicosia
Tel: +357 22867600
Fax:+357 22867838
E-mail: [email protected]
Internet: www.moi.gov.cy
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
presentations, discussions and ideas made during the Experts’ Conference as brought
participants. Any findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed herein do not
necessarily reflect the views of the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Cyprus or any other participant party
or donor of the event. The presentation of material throughout the report does not imply the expression of any
opinion whatsoever on the part of the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Cyprus.
Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Cyprus
Constantinos Karmellos, Ministry of Interior
Pa
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discussions and ideas made during the Experts’ Conference as brought
participants. Any findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed herein do not
necessarily reflect the views of the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Cyprus or any other participant party
ghout the report does not imply the expression of any
SHAPING AND
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AND REG
“FILOXENIA
C
Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
TABLE OF C
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
CONTENTS
1 Introduction...................................
2 Participants...................................
3 Background and Discussion Paper
4 Conference Agenda.......................
5 Speakers’ Biography......................
6 Opening Session............................
7 Session I........................................
8 Session II.......................................
9 Session III......................................
10 Closing Session..............................
11 Final Remarks.............................
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Page
Introduction................................... 4
Participants................................... 4
Discussion Paper.. 5
....................... 7
Biography...................... 10
Opening Session............................ 13
Session I........................................ 16
Session II....................................... 20
III...................................... 26
Closing Session.............................. 32
Remarks............................. 35
SHAPING AND
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Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
CONFERENCE
01. INTRODUCTION
The Ministry of Interior of Cyprus hosted
November 2012 on behalf of the Cyprus
Presidency of the Council of the European Union
an Experts’ Conference on Integration of
Immigrants at the “Filoxenia” Conference Centre
located in the capital city of
has been drafted in order
proceedings and reflect any
findings, incorporating opinions, views, debates
and remarks as brought up by
during and after the event, as well as to note views and re
the contents of the background/discussion paper and concept note
and participants prior to the meeting. Written comments
were submitted by the Austrian and the French Mi
Federal Government Commissioner for Migration, Refugees and Integration of Germany,
the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment of the Netherlands and the European
Commission’s Directorate-General for Home Affa
in brief form in this report.
02. PARTICIPANTS
The meeting was attended by 97 delegates from 24 Member States of the EU, Norway and
Switzerland, from EU institutions and agencies and other European networks.
concrete, the conference welcomed
speakers, consisting of representatives from EU institutions and agencies (the European
Parliament, the European Commission
Economic and Social Committee, and the European Union Age
governmental representatives from the participating states’ competent ministries and other
authorities, officials from European cities’ local authorities, representatives fro
authorities, representatives
representatives from the civil society and Non
scholars, researchers and other experts in the field of migration and inte
other relevant fields. Country representations consisted as a rule of both governmental and
non-governmental participants.
1 For the final list of participants follow
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
ONFERENCE REPORT
The Ministry of Interior of Cyprus hosted on 20
on behalf of the Cyprus
Presidency of the Council of the European Union
an Experts’ Conference on Integration of
at the “Filoxenia” Conference Centre
the capital city of Nicosia. This report
has been drafted in order to document the
any outcomes and
, incorporating opinions, views, debates
as brought up by the speakers and participants both orally and in written form
during and after the event, as well as to note views and remarks made from participants on
the contents of the background/discussion paper and concept note shared with
and participants prior to the meeting. Written comments on the conference proceedings
the Austrian and the French Ministries of the Interior, the Office of the
Federal Government Commissioner for Migration, Refugees and Integration of Germany,
the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment of the Netherlands and the European
General for Home Affairs (DG HOME). These have been included
The meeting was attended by 97 delegates from 24 Member States of the EU, Norway and
Switzerland, from EU institutions and agencies and other European networks.
he conference welcomed the participation of a diverse group of delegates and
speakers, consisting of representatives from EU institutions and agencies (the European
the European Commission, the Committee of the Regions, the European
omic and Social Committee, and the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights
governmental representatives from the participating states’ competent ministries and other
authorities, officials from European cities’ local authorities, representatives fro
from national and European cities’ unions and networks,
representatives from the civil society and Non-Governmental Organizations, academics,
and other experts in the field of migration and integration
Country representations consisted as a rule of both governmental and
governmental participants.1
follow http://www.cy2012.eu/index.php/en/file/1Vg8AFVi9Hj2nxXo9+AUZw P
ag
e4
the speakers and participants both orally and in written form
marks made from participants on
shared with all speakers
on the conference proceedings
nistries of the Interior, the Office of the
Federal Government Commissioner for Migration, Refugees and Integration of Germany,
the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment of the Netherlands and the European
have been included
The meeting was attended by 97 delegates from 24 Member States of the EU, Norway and
Switzerland, from EU institutions and agencies and other European networks. In more
a diverse group of delegates and
speakers, consisting of representatives from EU institutions and agencies (the European
, the Committee of the Regions, the European
ncy for Fundamental Rights),
governmental representatives from the participating states’ competent ministries and other
authorities, officials from European cities’ local authorities, representatives from regional
from national and European cities’ unions and networks,
Governmental Organizations, academics,
gration as well as in
Country representations consisted as a rule of both governmental and
http://www.cy2012.eu/index.php/en/file/1Vg8AFVi9Hj2nxXo9+AUZw==
SHAPING AND
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Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
03. BACKGROUND AND DISCU
The Ministry of Interior had commissioned the University Professor of Law and Sociology Dr.
Nicos Trimikliniotis to chair the meeting and
conference participants prior to the meeting.
concept note and discussion paper and aimed at providing a background to participants
contents aimed at triggering an exchange of ideas and experiences by way of critical
reflection on the direction, meaning, implementation and contextual
integration of third-country nationals in
focusing on the role of local and regional authorities and communities
shaping and implementing integration policies
the views of its author and were
the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of
invited within certain deadlines
and general written comments and remarks on
of the Background paper and Discussion Paper/Concept note
� The General Secretariat for Immi
of France considers the promotion of migrants’ contribution to the economic and cultural
life to be a key aspect and suggests taking into account the different internal national
governance and institutional structures in order to establish various typologies that might
allow us to identify brakes and levers of action
the current conditions of the economic crisis, it is
negative perceptions around migration within the host societies in order to share
exchange views on how to counter the increasing nationalist tensions
exchange of national practices and information in relation to the pa
the decision-making process referring in particular to the national civic and civil
representation mechanisms implemented in every
� Germany’s Federal Ministry of Interior
Commissioner for Migration, Refugees and Integration, the Austrian Federal Ministry of
Interior and the Dutch Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment
Statement submitted by the three countries’ delegations during the discussions
text of the conclusions on the European Agenda for the Integration of third
nationals adopted by the Council in December 2011
the promotion of integration does not depend on the origin or nation
individual need for integration, while in many cases immigrants from the
and own nationals with an immigrant background face the same integration challenges as
third-country immigrants. It was further suggested t
on integration should comprise all experience concerning the social inclusion of all people
having a migratory background, irrespective of their nationality. The Austrian Federal
Ministry made in this respect
hosted by the Netherlands and Germany in Rotterdam on 3
2 For the Background and Discussion Paper/Concept Note
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION PAPER
The Ministry of Interior had commissioned the University Professor of Law and Sociology Dr.
chair the meeting and prepare a paper which was
onference participants prior to the meeting.2 This paper served as the basi
concept note and discussion paper and aimed at providing a background to participants
aimed at triggering an exchange of ideas and experiences by way of critical
reflection on the direction, meaning, implementation and contextualization of
country nationals in the European Union and Europe in general
on the role of local and regional authorities and communities during processes of
shaping and implementing integration policies. The positions included in the paper
the views of its author and were meant to initiate the debate and not to reflect the views of
the Republic of Cyprus. The conference participants had been
within certain deadlines before and after the conference to submit their
written comments and remarks on the conference discussions and
of the Background paper and Discussion Paper/Concept note. These are outlined below:
he General Secretariat for Immigration and Integration of the Ministry of the Interior
considers the promotion of migrants’ contribution to the economic and cultural
life to be a key aspect and suggests taking into account the different internal national
institutional structures in order to establish various typologies that might
allow us to identify brakes and levers of action in the field of integration.
conditions of the economic crisis, it is essential to further the
negative perceptions around migration within the host societies in order to share
views on how to counter the increasing nationalist tensions. Also proposed is
exchange of national practices and information in relation to the participation of migrants in
making process referring in particular to the national civic and civil
representation mechanisms implemented in every EU Member State.
Germany’s Federal Ministry of Interior, Germany’s Office of the Federal Governmen
Commissioner for Migration, Refugees and Integration, the Austrian Federal Ministry of
Interior and the Dutch Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment referred
Statement submitted by the three countries’ delegations during the discussions
text of the conclusions on the European Agenda for the Integration of third
nationals adopted by the Council in December 2011 and expressed the view that, in general,
the promotion of integration does not depend on the origin or nationality, but
individual need for integration, while in many cases immigrants from the
and own nationals with an immigrant background face the same integration challenges as
It was further suggested that a European exchange of information
on integration should comprise all experience concerning the social inclusion of all people
having a migratory background, irrespective of their nationality. The Austrian Federal
in this respect a reference to the outcomes of the expert conference jointly
hosted by the Netherlands and Germany in Rotterdam on 3-4 September 2012 on the
For the Background and Discussion Paper/Concept Note follow http://www.cy2012.eu/index.php/en/file/_lW_sLnz1XX2nxXo9+AUZw Pa
ge5
The Ministry of Interior had commissioned the University Professor of Law and Sociology Dr.
prepare a paper which was shared with all
paper served as the basic conference
concept note and discussion paper and aimed at providing a background to participants. Its
aimed at triggering an exchange of ideas and experiences by way of critical
ization of policies on
the European Union and Europe in general by
during processes of
included in the paper express
reflect the views of
The conference participants had been
to submit their concrete
the conference discussions and the content
These are outlined below:
gration and Integration of the Ministry of the Interior
considers the promotion of migrants’ contribution to the economic and cultural
life to be a key aspect and suggests taking into account the different internal national
institutional structures in order to establish various typologies that might
. Particularly under
the debate over the
negative perceptions around migration within the host societies in order to share and
. Also proposed is an
rticipation of migrants in
making process referring in particular to the national civic and civil
Office of the Federal Government
Commissioner for Migration, Refugees and Integration, the Austrian Federal Ministry of
red to the common
Statement submitted by the three countries’ delegations during the discussions on the draft
text of the conclusions on the European Agenda for the Integration of third-country
view that, in general,
ality, but rather on the
individual need for integration, while in many cases immigrants from the EU Member States
and own nationals with an immigrant background face the same integration challenges as
European exchange of information
on integration should comprise all experience concerning the social inclusion of all people
having a migratory background, irrespective of their nationality. The Austrian Federal
e to the outcomes of the expert conference jointly
4 September 2012 on the
http://www.cy2012.eu/index.php/en/file/_lW_sLnz1XX2nxXo9+AUZw==
SHAPING AND
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Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
freedom of movement and participation of EU citizens, noting that these
supportive to the fact that government policies and legislation geared towards social
inclusion and participation in an increasing number of EU Member States do not distinguish
between third-country and EU citizens.
As regards the on-going project for
integration mechanism based on common
Interior and Office of the Federal Government Commissioner for Migration, Refugees and
Integration and the Dutch Ministry of Soc
project was launched in order to develop a system of non
binding ones. The Austrian Federal Ministry of Interior
methodological concerns over the MI
indicators project, and indicat
solely based on institutional set
and thus hardly providing an added value to the integration discourse. Distinguishing
between migration/integration issues, the Austrian Federal Ministry of Interior
furthermore that Art. 79 TFEU para. 4 constitutes the current legal basis for cooperation in
the field and sets the limits to the scope of Art. 79.
� Given the strong focus in the
European Agenda for the integration of third
and the involvement of stakeholders at the different governance levels,
Commission suggested to includ
European Agenda and to make
which is currently underway and
States the proposed migrant integration indicators taking into account the impact of the
national contexts, migration background
� The EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA)
the “European Union Minorities and Discrimination Survey (EU
FRA in 20083 noting that this work
immigrant and ethnic minority groups on their experiences of discrimination and criminal
victimisation in everyday life.
(2012)4 characterized a valuable tool to explore experiences of integration
migrant populations across Europe.
national and local levels, underscoring
cooperation among the government layers can maximize the effectiveness of integration
policies and the impact on immigrants’ ability to enjoy their rights.
relevant research that aims to support the implementation of fundamental rights at the
local and regional level with concrete
cooperation5. As regards the work currently in progress for the development of a
evaluation and monitoring mechanism
3 http://fra.europa.eu/en/project/2011/eu
4King Baudouin Foundation and Migration Policy Group. Immigrant Citizens Survey: How
integration in 15 European cities (2012). Available at: 5 http://fra.europa.eu/en/project/2011/joined
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
freedom of movement and participation of EU citizens, noting that these
supportive to the fact that government policies and legislation geared towards social
inclusion and participation in an increasing number of EU Member States do not distinguish
and EU citizens.
going project for the development of an evaluation and monitoring
mechanism based on common indicators, Germany’s Federal Ministry of
Interior and Office of the Federal Government Commissioner for Migration, Refugees and
Integration and the Dutch Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment
launched in order to develop a system of non-binding indicators rather than
Austrian Federal Ministry of Interior raised in this regard
methodological concerns over the MIPEX project, unlike to the much promising on
indicated its purely normative character and the fact that
institutional set-ups and laws without taking note of the different contexts
iding an added value to the integration discourse. Distinguishing
between migration/integration issues, the Austrian Federal Ministry of Interior
Art. 79 TFEU para. 4 constitutes the current legal basis for cooperation in
and sets the limits to the scope of Art. 79.
Given the strong focus in the European Commission’s Communication on a new
European Agenda for the integration of third-country nationals on action at the local level
and the involvement of stakeholders at the different governance levels,
include in the Background paper a more visible reference to the
to make a more concrete and extensive reference to the project
ich is currently underway and is aiming at analysing in close dialogue with the Member
States the proposed migrant integration indicators taking into account the impact of the
national contexts, migration background, policies, etc. in each Member State.
EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) stressed the importance of referring
European Union Minorities and Discrimination Survey (EU-MIDIS)”
this work constitutes the first EU-wide survey
immigrant and ethnic minority groups on their experiences of discrimination and criminal
victimisation in everyday life. Reference was also made to the Immigrant Citizens Survey
valuable tool to explore experiences of integration
migrant populations across Europe. FRA supports a joined-up approach between the EU,
underscoring in this respect that multi-level coordination and
government layers can maximize the effectiveness of integration
policies and the impact on immigrants’ ability to enjoy their rights. The
research that aims to support the implementation of fundamental rights at the
onal level with concrete “joined-up” tools and models for effective multi
As regards the work currently in progress for the development of a
mechanism based on a system of common integration indicators,
http://fra.europa.eu/en/project/2011/eu-midis-european-union-minorities-and-discrimination-survey
King Baudouin Foundation and Migration Policy Group. Immigrant Citizens Survey: How
cities (2012). Available at: http://www.immigrantsurvey.org/
http://fra.europa.eu/en/project/2011/joined-governance-connecting-fundamental-rights Pa
ge6
freedom of movement and participation of EU citizens, noting that these outcomes are
supportive to the fact that government policies and legislation geared towards social
inclusion and participation in an increasing number of EU Member States do not distinguish
the development of an evaluation and monitoring
Germany’s Federal Ministry of
Interior and Office of the Federal Government Commissioner for Migration, Refugees and
ial Affairs and Employment noted that this
binding indicators rather than
in this regard the serious
much promising on-going
its purely normative character and the fact that MIPEX is
without taking note of the different contexts
iding an added value to the integration discourse. Distinguishing
between migration/integration issues, the Austrian Federal Ministry of Interior reminds
Art. 79 TFEU para. 4 constitutes the current legal basis for cooperation in
Commission’s Communication on a new
action at the local level
and the involvement of stakeholders at the different governance levels, the European
in the Background paper a more visible reference to the
extensive reference to the project
aiming at analysing in close dialogue with the Member
States the proposed migrant integration indicators taking into account the impact of the
etc. in each Member State.
stressed the importance of referring to
carried out by the
wide survey which examines
immigrant and ethnic minority groups on their experiences of discrimination and criminal
to the Immigrant Citizens Survey
valuable tool to explore experiences of integration policies by
up approach between the EU,
level coordination and
government layers can maximize the effectiveness of integration
The FRA engaged in a
research that aims to support the implementation of fundamental rights at the
tools and models for effective multi-level
As regards the work currently in progress for the development of an
integration indicators,
survey
King Baudouin Foundation and Migration Policy Group. Immigrant Citizens Survey: How immigrants experience
SHAPING AND
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AND REG
“FILOXENIA
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Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
FRA commented that the work currently conducted
indicators and not solely on social indicators
supports that, in addition to third
monitoring system that would take account of other groups
and second generation migrants
underlining the importance of the
the 26-27/11/2012 of the conclusions
people with the emphasis on those with a migrant background
� The Representative of the National Association of
stressed the need that the EU Member States
addressing the current challenges in relation to the formation of a common European
identity, in adopting policies aiming at
in relation to granting voting rights.
regional authorities can play
incidents of nationalism, intolerance and xenophobia,
common action to counter these phenomena. He furthermore
advantages that diversity can actually bring to the European cities
importance of an active engagement of third
democratic processes, underlining that
large numbers of migrants. He explained that
governing access to citizenship in the EU Member
therefore what should be required
acquisition of citizenship and more harmonization
04. CONFERENCE AGENDA
The Conference focused on the role
shaping and implementing immigrant integration policies
three plenary sessions. In Session I, the debate focused on the issue of
participation and
belonging
integration as a genuine dynamic and multiple process
addressed this from
access and belonging an
learnings from experiences gained so far, the room for
improvement of current policies and the encouragement of active
citizenship of migrants and non
and the EU levels.
discourse on migration: the contribution of migrants”
on the finding
society is not sufficiently recognized and appreciated and that
6 Conclusions of the Council and the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States
social inclusion of young people with emphasis on those with a migrant background
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
work currently conducted is focusing mainly on socio
not solely on social indicators as stated in the background paper.
to third-country nationals, the development of an effective
uld take account of other groups as well, like national migrants
migrants. FRA pays particular attention to the migrant youth
importance of the recent adoption by the Council of the European Union
conclusions on the participation and social inclusion of young
people with the emphasis on those with a migrant background.6
The Representative of the National Association of Italian Mu
that the EU Member States strengthen common responses as regards
addressing the current challenges in relation to the formation of a common European
aiming at first and second generation migrants’ integration and
in relation to granting voting rights. He emphasized the increased role that local and
regional authorities can play in this respect and referred to the issue of the increasing
incidents of nationalism, intolerance and xenophobia, suggesting to work
common action to counter these phenomena. He furthermore highlight
advantages that diversity can actually bring to the European cities
active engagement of third-country migrants to the political and
, underlining that democratic legitimacy is not served by excluding
He explained that the significant differences between the rules
governing access to citizenship in the EU Member States is a source of discrimination and
required is more coordination regarding the procedures for the
and more harmonization on the voting rights.
CONFERENCE AGENDA
The Conference focused on the role of local and regional authorities and communities in
shaping and implementing immigrant integration policies and consisted of
In Session I, the debate focused on the issue of Integration through
participation and active citizenship as the vehicle to enhancing
belonging and aimed at laying the foundations for the debate of
integration as a genuine dynamic and multiple process
addressed this from the perspective of enhancing participation,
access and belonging and at addressing questions concerning
learnings from experiences gained so far, the room for
improvement of current policies and the encouragement of active
citizenship of migrants and non-migrants at local, national, regional
and the EU levels. Discussions in Session II “Towards a democratic
discourse on migration: the contribution of migrants”
on the finding that the contribution of migrants in economy and
society is not sufficiently recognized and appreciated and that
Conclusions of the Council and the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States
social inclusion of young people with emphasis on those with a migrant background (Doc. No. 15652/12) Pa
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mainly on socio-economic
as stated in the background paper. The Agency
the development of an effective
, like national migrants
migrant youth policy
Council of the European Union of
on the participation and social inclusion of young
Municipalities (ANCI)
strengthen common responses as regards
addressing the current challenges in relation to the formation of a common European
migrants’ integration and
the increased role that local and
the issue of the increasing
on the adoption of
highlighted the enormous
advantages that diversity can actually bring to the European cities and noted the
grants to the political and
democratic legitimacy is not served by excluding
the significant differences between the rules
States is a source of discrimination and
more coordination regarding the procedures for the
of local and regional authorities and communities in
consisted of discussions in
ntegration through
active citizenship as the vehicle to enhancing
and aimed at laying the foundations for the debate of
integration as a genuine dynamic and multiple process. It
the perspective of enhancing participation,
d at addressing questions concerning
learnings from experiences gained so far, the room for
improvement of current policies and the encouragement of active
migrants at local, national, regional
“Towards a democratic
discourse on migration: the contribution of migrants” was based
that the contribution of migrants in economy and
society is not sufficiently recognized and appreciated and that
on the participation and
(Doc. No. 15652/12).
SHAPING AND
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Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
migrants are often associat
discussion focused on how racial hate speech, xenophobic media discourses and anti
immigrant campaigns are generating and perpetuating a climate not conducive to a healthy
integration process. It examined in this respect the role
problems in order to contribute towards a democratic, open
discourse on migrants and migration, which is a necessary precondition for the
development of effective integration policies. In Session III the discussion
Paradigms of multi-level governance in the design and implementation of integration
policies in an effort to draw on theory, policies and practices of how to best enhance policy
making and governance. In
underdeveloped, ineffective monitoring, reviewing and assessment
local authorities and communities, the enhancement, support and funding of the civil
society and local communities and the strengthening of effective participation and
engagement of civil society in multi
DAY 0 - MONDAY, 19 NOVEMBER 2012
ALL DAY ARRIVAL OF DELEGATES AND
DAY 1 - TUESDAY, 20 NOVEMBER 2012
09:30 – 10:00 OPENING SESSION
- MS ELENI MAVROU
- MR KYRIACOS TRIANTAFYLLIDES
- MS MARTA CYGAN
10:00 - 10:15 FAMILY PHOTO
10:15 - 11:45 SESSION I: INTEGRATION THROUGH P
- DR. FLOYA ANTHIAS
SOLIDARITY
- MR PAUL LAPPALAINEN
- MR ARISTOS TSIARTAS
DISCRIMINATION
11:45 – 12:00 COFFEE BREAK AT “P
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
associated solely with negative attributes and stereotypes
discussion focused on how racial hate speech, xenophobic media discourses and anti
immigrant campaigns are generating and perpetuating a climate not conducive to a healthy
ined in this respect the role of local initiatives in addressing such
problems in order to contribute towards a democratic, open-minded and forward
discourse on migrants and migration, which is a necessary precondition for the
ive integration policies. In Session III the discussion
level governance in the design and implementation of integration
in an effort to draw on theory, policies and practices of how to best enhance policy
. In particular it addressed matters of strategic planning,
underdeveloped, ineffective monitoring, reviewing and assessment, the empowerment of
local authorities and communities, the enhancement, support and funding of the civil
d local communities and the strengthening of effective participation and
engagement of civil society in multi-level governance decision-making.
2012
ELEGATES AND TRANSFER TO HOTELS
AVROU, MINISTER OF INTERIOR, PRESIDENCY
RIANTAFYLLIDES, MEMBER OF THE LIBE COMMITTEE, EUROPEAN
YGAN, DIRECTOR IMMIGRATION AND ASYLUM, DG HOME AFFAIRS,
NTEGRATION THROUGH PARTICIPATION: ACTIVE CITIZENSHIP AS THE VEHICLE TO ENH
NTHIAS, DIVERSITY AND INTEGRATION DISCOURSES AND PRACTICES: THE
APPALAINEN, EQUALITY IS THE KEY TO INTEGRATION – AND CITIES CAN UNLOC
SIARTAS, INTEGRATION OF MIGRANTS IN CYPRUS AND THE FIGHT AGAINST RACISM AND
“PENTADAKTYLOS” RESTAURANT AT CONFERENCE CENTRE
CONFERENCE AGENDA
Pa
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ed solely with negative attributes and stereotypes. The
discussion focused on how racial hate speech, xenophobic media discourses and anti-
immigrant campaigns are generating and perpetuating a climate not conducive to a healthy
local initiatives in addressing such
minded and forward-looking
discourse on migrants and migration, which is a necessary precondition for the
ive integration policies. In Session III the discussions concentrated on
level governance in the design and implementation of integration
in an effort to draw on theory, policies and practices of how to best enhance policy-
strategic planning,
, the empowerment of
local authorities and communities, the enhancement, support and funding of the civil
d local communities and the strengthening of effective participation and
UROPEAN PARLIAMENT
EUROPEAN COMMISSION
S THE VEHICLE TO ENHANCING BELONGING
THE ISSUE OF SOCIAL
AND CITIES CAN UNLOCK THE DOOR!
AGAINST RACISM AND
SHAPING AND
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AND REG
“FILOXENIA
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Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
12:00 - 13:30 SESSION II: TOWARDS A
- MR GERRY FOLAN
- MR SHAHRIAR SHAMS
OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP
- DR. GIORGOS TSIAKALOS
13:30 - 15:00 LUNCH AT “PENTADAKTYLOS
15:00 - 16:45 SESSION III: PARADIGMS OF MULTI
INTEGRATION POLICIES
- MR NIALL CROWLEY
DISCRIMINATION
- DR. CRISTIAN PIRVULESCU
- DR. MARGRET SPOHN
IT. CASE STUDY – M
- DR. LUDOVICA BANFI
16:45 – 17:00 COFFEE BREAK AT “P
17:00 – 17:30 CLOSING SESSION:
- MR CONSTANTINOS
- MR DEMETRIOS K
THE EUROPEAN AGENDA FOR
20:00 - 22:00 DINNER IN MEZE HOUSE
ELENI MAVROU
WEDNESDAY, 21 NOVEMBER 2012
ALL DAY TRANSFER TO AIRPORT AND
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
OWARDS A DEMOCRATIC DISCOURSE ON MIGRATION: THE CONTRIBUTION OF
OLAN, TOWARDS INTEGRATION A CITY FRAMEWORK
HAMS ILI, MAKE IT IN DENMARK, ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTION OF MIGR
OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP
SIAKALOS, DISCOURSE AND RHETORIC ABOUT MIGRATION
ENTADAKTYLOS” RESTAURANT AT CONFERENCE CENTRE
ARADIGMS OF MULTI-LEVEL GOVERNANCE IN THE DESIGN AND IMPLE
INTEGRATION POLICIES
ROWLEY, MULTI-LEVEL GOVERNANCE FOR THE ACHIEVEMENT OF EQUALITY AND
IRVULESCU, INTEGRATION THROUGH PARTICIPATION
POHN, INTERCULTURAL INTEGRATION – WHAT IT IS, WHAT WE DO AND HOW W
MUNICH
ANFI, MOVING TOWARD MIGRANTS’ INTEGRATION INTO THE HEALTHCARE SYSTEM
“PENTADAKTYLOS” RESTAURANT AT CONFERENCE CENTRE
ONSTANTINOS YIORKADJIS, MAYOR OF NICOSIA
KALOGEROPOULOS, MEMBER OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS AND
GENDA FOR INTEGRATION
OUSE “ALA ELLINIKA” IN NICOSIA CENTRE, HOSTED BY THE MINISTER OF
IRPORT AND DEPARTURE OF DELEGATIONS
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HE CONTRIBUTION OF MIGRANTS
CONTRIBUTION OF MIGRANTS IN THE CONTEXT
THE DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF
QUALITY AND NON-
WHAT WE DO AND HOW WE PAY FOR
HEALTHCARE SYSTEM
EGIONS AND RAPPORTEUR ON
INISTER OF INTERIOR MS
SHAPING AND
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Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
05. SPEAKERS’ BIOGRAPH
CONFERENCE CHAIR
Dr. Nicos Trimikliniotis is an Associate Professor of Law and Sociology at the University of Nicosia and Director of the Centre for the Study of Migration, Inter
and Labour Relations. He is the national expert for Cyprus of the European network of experts on Free Movement(2008-) and Labour Law (2010Cypriot national expert on the Independent Network of Labour Migration and Integration Experts (LMIE-INET) of the I2012). He has researched and led research teams on ethnic conflict and resolconstitutional and state theory, multiculturalism, education, migration, racism, and discrimination and has published several articles in books and journals. work includes Beyond a Divided Cyprus:State and Society in Transformationand Contested Integration, Migration and Societal Transformation: European Dilemmas and Challenges (2013, forthcoming).
SESSION 2
Dr. Floya AnthiasProfessor of Sociology and Social Justice (Emeritus)the Roehampton Universityof the UK and vProfessor University. She has written extensively on migration, multiculturalism, social
divisions, ethnicity, gender and racism. Her work has explored the ways in which different forms of inequality and identity intersect. Her books include Racialised Boundaries (Routledge), Ethnicity, Class, Gender and Migration: Greek Cypriots in Britain (Avebury), Gender and Migration in Southern Europe (Berg), Rethinking Antiracism (Routledge) and Paradoxes of Integration (Springer).
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
SPEAKERS’ BIOGRAPHY
is an Associate Professor of Law and Sociology at the University of Nicosia and Director of the Centre for the Study of Migration, Interethnic
and Labour Relations. He is the national expert for Cyprus of the European network of experts on Free Movement of Workers
) and Labour Law (2010-). He is the Cypriot national expert on the Independent Network of Labour Migration and Integration
INET) of the IOM (2009 - He has researched and led research
teams on ethnic conflict and resolution, constitutional and state theory, multiculturalism, education, migration, racism, and discrimination and has published several articles in books and journals. His
Beyond a Divided Cyprus: A State and Society in Transformation (2012)
Contested Integration, Migration and Societal Transformation: European Dilemmas
forthcoming).
Dr. Floya Anthias is of Sociology and
Social Justice (Emeritus) at Roehampton University
of the UK and visiting at the City
University. She has written extensively on migration, multiculturalism, social
divisions, ethnicity, gender and racism. Her work has explored the ways in which different forms of inequality and identity
include Racialised Boundaries (Routledge), Ethnicity, Class, Gender and Migration: Greek Cypriots in Britain (Avebury), Gender and Migration in Southern Europe (Berg), Rethinking Antiracism (Routledge) and Paradoxes of
Mr Paul Laa Senior Advisor to the Swedish Equality OmbudsmanScientific Advisor UNESCO's European Coalition of Cities Against Racism and was recently the sub-board of the Open
Society Foundation's At Home In Europe Project.. He has been working with discrimination and racism and equality promotion issues in Sweden and Europe for many years. Much of his experience as a lawyer and from civil society coalesced when he, probably one of the first foreign born citizens in Sweden to do so, wto head a government inquiry. 2005, its title is The Blue and Yellow Glass House: Structural Discrimination in Sweden. He was born in Canada, the son of Finnish immigrants and grew up in the US before moving to Sweden in 1978. He hdegrees from the US and Sweden as well as a degree in political science. During 2000he was the Swedish member of two of the EU-Commission’s independent expert groups concerning implementation of the EU antidiscrimination directives. extensive experience from local politics in Sweden.
Mr Aristos Tsiartascurrently the Cyprus tion Body. Head of Human Rights Department at the Ombudsman’s Office and of the National Preventive Mechanism set up under the UN Convention Against Torture. Mr Tsiartas is also serving as an
Alternate Member of the Management Board of the European UniFundamental Rights (FRA).
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Mr Paul Lappalainen is a Senior Advisor to the Swedish Equality Ombudsman. He is also a Scientific Advisor to UNESCO's European Coalition of Cities Against
and was recently to board of the Open
Society Foundation's At Home In Europe een working with
discrimination and racism and equality promotion issues in Sweden and Europe for
Much of his experience as a lawyer and from civil society coalesced when
one of the first foreign born to do so, was appointed
to head a government inquiry. Finished in 2005, its title is The Blue and Yellow Glass House: Structural Discrimination in Sweden. He was born in Canada, the son of Finnish immigrants and grew up in the US before moving to Sweden in 1978. He has law degrees from the US and Sweden as well as a degree in political science. During 2000-2004 he was the Swedish member of two of the
Commission’s independent expert groups concerning implementation of the EU anti-discrimination directives. He also has extensive experience from local politics in
Mr Aristos Tsiartas is currently the Head of the Cyprus Antidiscrimina-
Body. He is also the Head of Human Rights Department at the Ombudsman’s Office and of the National Preventive Mechanism set up under the UN Convention Against Torture. Mr Tsiartas is also serving as an
Alternate Member of the Management Board of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA).
SHAPING AND
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Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
SESSION 2
Dr. George TsiakalosProfessor of Pedagogy atAristotle University of Thessaloniki. biology and doctorate (Dr. rer. nat.) in Human Biology from German ChristianUniversity in
doctorate (Dr. Phil.) in Education and Sociology from the University of Bremen.was appointed Professor of Pedagogy at the University of Thessaloniki in 1984, where he served at various positions, such as Dean of the Faculty of Education and Chair of the Department of Primary Educationmember of the “EU High Level Group of Experts on Literacy”. His research interests include population genetics, racism, social exclusion and poverty, education of migrants, minorities and socially disadvantaged groups. Professor wrote a large number of books as well as articles in academic journals or collective volumes on a large range of current educational and social topics.was appointed by the Councithe Republic of Cyprus as the Chairman of the Committee for the formation of new school curricula.
Mr Gerry Folanexecutive officer with Dublin City Council. He has worked in local government for over 30 years, most of that time with Dublin City Council in Planning and Development, Housing,
Human Resources, Local Area Management and Regeneration, and CommunEnterprise. He has worked extensively with European networks on urban development issues, social inclusion and integration. In 2007 he initiated the City Council policy response to the impact of new migration in the city. He led the development of a strategic framework on integration for the city in consultation with all the stakeholders,
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
Dr. George Tsiakalos is rofessor of Pedagogy at
Aristotle University of He studied
biology and obtained a doctorate (Dr. rer. nat.) in Human Biology from the
Christian-Albrechts-in Kiel and a
doctorate (Dr. Phil.) in Education and Sociology from the University of Bremen. He
appointed Professor of Pedagogy at the University of Thessaloniki in 1984, where he served at various positions, such as Dean of
aculty of Education and Chair of the Department of Primary Education. He is a member of the “EU High Level Group of
His research interests include population genetics, racism, social exclusion and poverty, education of
ities and socially Professor Tsiakalos
wrote a large number of books as well as articles in academic journals or collective volumes on a large range of current educational and social topics. In July 2008 he
l of Ministers of the Republic of Cyprus as the Chairman of the Committee for the formation of new
Mr Gerry Folan is senior executive officer with Dublin City Council. He has worked in local government for over 30 years, most of that time with Dublin City Council in Planning and Development, Housing,
Human Resources, Local Area Management and Regeneration, and Community & Enterprise. He has worked extensively with European networks on urban development issues, social inclusion and integration. In 2007 he initiated the City Council policy response to the impact of new migration in the city. He led the development of a strategic framework on integration for the city in consultation with all the stakeholders,
and as Head of the Office for Integration of Dublin City Council has managed implementation and coordination of integration policy and actions at city level. Since 2010 he has also had responsibility for operational management of Homeless Services in the city and has led a strategic initiative on migrant homeless. He holds a Diploma in Administrative Science from Institute of Public Administration and a Barrister at Law Degree from the Honorable Society of Kings Inns.
Mr Shahriar Shams Iliis a Business Advisor in the City of Copenhagen under Business Development section of Copenhagen Business Service. He has been working in the field
of Ethnic Entrepreneurship since graduating from Copenhagen Business School (CBS) in 1992. In the last 20 years he has been working as researcher, consultant and Business Advisor. He has led the European Union´s funded project “Better and More Migrant Businesses in Danish Major Cities” under Equal program in the period of 2005 2007 and has been the leader of Center of Ethnic Entrepreneurship in Denmark.
SESSION 3
Mr Niall Crowleyindependent equality and diversity expert. He has worked on a range of policy, research, and strategic support projects at European level and
across the EU Member States. He was chief executive of the Equality Authority, the Irish equality body, for ten years from its establishment in 1999. Prior to that he worked on a range of equality issues in the NGO sector. He has published widely on the topic including ‘An Ambition for Equality’ published by Irish Academic Press, and ‘Empty Promises, Bringing the Equality Authority to Heel’ published by A&A Farmar. P
ag
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and as Head of the Office for Integration of Dublin City Council has managed implementation and coordination of integration policy and actions at city level.
010 he has also had responsibility for operational management of Homeless Services in the city and has led a strategic initiative on migrant homeless. He holds a Diploma in Administrative Science from Institute of Public Administration and a
aw Degree from the Honorable
Mr Shahriar Shams Ili is a Business Advisor in the City of Copenhagen under Business Development section of Copenhagen Business Service. He has been working in the field
of Ethnic Entrepreneurship since graduating from Copenhagen Business School (CBS) in
ears he has been working as researcher, consultant and Business Advisor. He has led the European Union´s funded project “Better and More Migrant Businesses in Danish Major Cities” under Equal program in the period of 2005 – 2007 and has been the leader of Knowledge Center of Ethnic Entrepreneurship in
Mr Niall Crowley is an independent equality and diversity expert. He has worked on a range of policy, research, and strategic support projects at European level and mber States. He was chief
executive of the Equality Authority, the Irish equality body, for ten years from its establishment in 1999. Prior to that he worked on a range of equality issues in the NGO sector. He has published widely on the
n Ambition for Equality’ published by Irish Academic Press, and ‘Empty Promises, Bringing the Equality Authority to Heel’ published by A&A Farmar.
SHAPING AND
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Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
Dr. Cristian PirvulescuRomanian and member of the European Economic and Social Committee (Group III - Various activities) from 2007 and member of the Bureau of European Economic and Social
Committee from 2007 until 2009 and from 2010 until now. He has been several EESC opinions on integratioimmigration, including these on family reunification and the new European agenda on integration of third-country nationals. Dr. Pirvulescu is a University Professor of Political Sciences and from 2005 is currently the Dean of the Political Sciences Fthe National School of Political Studies and Public Administration of the University of Bucharest. From 1999 until today he is the President of Asociaţia Pro Democraţia (Pro Democracy Association), a nongovernmental organization whose mission isto strengthen democracy by encouraging civic participation.
Dr. Margret Spohnworked as a migration expert in the Office for Intercultural Affairs City of Munich 10 years. She specialises inintercultural and interreligious dialogue. Prior to her work
City of Munich she taught migrationintegration matters at universities,and international organisations in Germany, New Zealand, Turkey and Switzerland. Dr. Spohn holds a PhD in Migration Sociology and two Master degrees, one in Sociology and another in Intercultural Communication. Currently she teaches courses in Social Disparity and Migration at the University of Kempten.
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
Dr. Cristian Pirvulescu is Romanian and member of
European Economic and Social Committee (Group III
Various activities) from 2007 and member of the Bureau of European Economic and Social
Committee from 2007 until 2009 and from 2010 until now. He has been Rapporteur on several EESC opinions on integration and immigration, including these on family reunification and the new European agenda
country nationals. Dr. Pirvulescu is a University Professor of Political Sciences and from 2005 is currently the Dean of the Political Sciences Faculty of the National School of Political Studies and Public Administration of the University of Bucharest. From 1999 until today he is the President of Asociaţia Pro Democraţia (Pro Democracy Association), a non-governmental organization whose mission is to strengthen democracy by encouraging
Dr. Margret Spohn has worked as a migration expert in the Office for Intercultural Affairs of the City of Munich for the past
She specialises in ntercultural mainstreaming
and interreligious dialogue. Prior to her work for the
taught migration and universities, institutes
and international organisations in Germany, Switzerland. Dr. ration Sociology
and two Master degrees, one in Sociology and another in Intercultural Communication. Currently she teaches courses in Social Disparity and Migration at the University of
Dr. Ludovica Banficurrently Programme
Manager in Social
Research in the ‘Equality
and Citizens’ Rights’
department at the
European Union Agency
for Fundamental Rights
(FRA). Dr. Banfi obtained
her PhD in Sociology from the University of
Trento in Italy. Before joining th
Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA), she
worked as research fellow at the University
of Bologna, the University of Trento and at
Middlesex University, UK. Her areas of
expertise include migration, gender equality,
multiple discrimination and social research
methods.
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Dr. Ludovica Banfi is
currently Programme
Manager in Social
Research in the ‘Equality
and Citizens’ Rights’
department at the
European Union Agency
for Fundamental Rights
(FRA). Dr. Banfi obtained
her PhD in Sociology from the University of
Trento in Italy. Before joining the
Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA), she
worked as research fellow at the University
of Bologna, the University of Trento and at
Middlesex University, UK. Her areas of
expertise include migration, gender equality,
multiple discrimination and social research
SHAPING AND
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Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
06. OPENING SESSION
Dr. Nicos Trimikliniotis, Ass
Nicosia opened the meeting by welcoming the participants in his capacity as Chair of the
conference and by thanking all speakers and participants for accepting Cyprus’ invitation to
attend the conference, as well as the European Commission for co
briefly introducing the conference proceedings and presenting the conferen
and agenda, Prof. Trimikliniotis presented the central discussion topic of the meeting. I
light of the increased emphasis on the ne
all relevant steering policy documents of the EU
that the conference topic is one of great
governmental stakeholders and the social partners involved
Europe in general. He characterized
society as the cornerstone of the policies that shall be adopted and provide the space and
general framework so that integration emerges. He further
processes must be nourished and dev
opportunities to all levels of governance to fully engage in these processes
enable a comprehensive and legitimate approach in policy making.
highlighted some questions that
which the conference could elaborate on, calling on participants to consider in particular
how in practice we put forward
the local level, what we imagine as the specific role of local and regional authorities,
municipal and sub-municipal levels of governance, how coordination, synergy, better
involvement of the local and regional levels can better be achieved and how integration
policy could enhance equal rights, opportunities and access to all irrespective of ethnic
national origin, class, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age and other markers of social
exclusion, discrimination and division
expressed his confidence of a
could facilitate the strengthen
stakeholders. He described migration and the related surrounding issues as
social phenomena and spoke
the need of a multi-level and
multi-disciplinary approach which
is simultaneously nuanced,
concrete and policy-relevant in
specific fields and the process
which opens up spaces for
participation, access and belonging
in an inclusive, democratic society
of social solidarity.
Mr Andreas Ashiotis, Permanent Secretary
an opening remark on behalf of th
and participants and stating
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
Associate Professor of Law and Sociology at the University of
opened the meeting by welcoming the participants in his capacity as Chair of the
onference and by thanking all speakers and participants for accepting Cyprus’ invitation to
attend the conference, as well as the European Commission for co-funding the event. After
briefly introducing the conference proceedings and presenting the conferen
Trimikliniotis presented the central discussion topic of the meeting. I
light of the increased emphasis on the need for efficient and inclusive integration policies in
steering policy documents of the EU, Prof. Trimikliniotis underlined in particular
that the conference topic is one of great interest for the for both governmental and non
rs and the social partners involved in all EU Members States
characterized participation, access and belonging in co
society as the cornerstone of the policies that shall be adopted and provide the space and
general framework so that integration emerges. He furthermore indicated that these
must be nourished and developed on the ground and that we should provide
of governance to fully engage in these processes
enable a comprehensive and legitimate approach in policy making. Professor Trimikliniotis
that in his view had a central meaning for the debate and on
which the conference could elaborate on, calling on participants to consider in particular
put forward “participation” of immigrants in the democratic process at
the local level, what we imagine as the specific role of local and regional authorities,
municipal levels of governance, how coordination, synergy, better
and regional levels can better be achieved and how integration
enhance equal rights, opportunities and access to all irrespective of ethnic
national origin, class, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age and other markers of social
n, discrimination and division. Closing his opening address,
his confidence of an open and sincere dialogue during the conference which
the strengthening of ties and cooperation among the participating
migration and the related surrounding issues as
and spoke for
level and
disciplinary approach which
is simultaneously nuanced,
relevant in
the process
which opens up spaces for
participation, access and belonging
c society
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior of Cyprus
opening remark on behalf of the Minister of Interior welcoming in Nicosia the speakers
his appreciation for the strong attendance. He furthermore Pa
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3
Professor of Law and Sociology at the University of
opened the meeting by welcoming the participants in his capacity as Chair of the
onference and by thanking all speakers and participants for accepting Cyprus’ invitation to
funding the event. After
briefly introducing the conference proceedings and presenting the conference programme
Trimikliniotis presented the central discussion topic of the meeting. In
efficient and inclusive integration policies in
underlined in particular
for both governmental and non-
EU Members States and
ticipation, access and belonging in co-shaping
society as the cornerstone of the policies that shall be adopted and provide the space and
indicated that these
eloped on the ground and that we should provide
of governance to fully engage in these processes if we wish to
Professor Trimikliniotis
a central meaning for the debate and on
which the conference could elaborate on, calling on participants to consider in particular
“participation” of immigrants in the democratic process at
the local level, what we imagine as the specific role of local and regional authorities,
municipal levels of governance, how coordination, synergy, better
and regional levels can better be achieved and how integration
enhance equal rights, opportunities and access to all irrespective of ethnic
national origin, class, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age and other markers of social
. Closing his opening address, Prof. Trimikliniotis
gue during the conference which
of ties and cooperation among the participating
migration and the related surrounding issues as multi-faceted
of Cyprus, delivered
welcoming in Nicosia the speakers
appreciation for the strong attendance. He furthermore
SHAPING AND
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“FILOXENIA
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Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
referred to integration of immigrants as an issue of high priority on the agenda of the
Cyprus Presidency and explained that t
holistic model that the procedure
follow. Underlining that integration has a key role to play in order for Europe to maximize
benefits from migration and efficiently address challenges
multicultural societies, Mr Ashiotis went through
presented the changing and diverse environment being shaped in the late years
demonstrated that Europe’s economies and societies are subject to influence
underlined the fundamental need for well managed legal migration in order to effectively
address structural problems and
accompany these policies with respective integration policies and strategies. He very much
emphasized the fact that integration should not be solely approached as a mere ar
or accounting topic reminding that the European history a
principals impose it as a social necessity and a historic
environment of full respect for human rights and diversity for all citi
their origin – live and work in the EU.
explained Mr Ashiotis, which under the present difficult conditions of the economic crisis
emerge particularly frequently and intense, highligh
cooperation between the European states within the framework set by the Treaty of the
Functioning of the European Union.
conference agenda, underlining that
and wider social life and their active involvement in the participatory processes particularly
on the local level, are benchmarks of democracy of the institutions.
discourse over migration, he s
in populist rhetoric configure the public debate, form perceptions and shape attitudes
against migrants in an unbalanced manner
the issue of migration emerges on the political agenda only in negative connotations
whereas the contribution of migrants in Europe’s economy and society remains un
Mr Ashiotis closed his remarks thanking the
the speakers and the Chair for accepting the Ministry’s Invitation to chair the meeting.
Mr Kyriakos Triantafyllides, Member of the Committee on Civil Liberties
Affairs (LIBE) of the European Parliament
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
referred to integration of immigrants as an issue of high priority on the agenda of the
xplained that the participants’ diversity is demonstrative
procedure of shaping and implementing integration policies must
Underlining that integration has a key role to play in order for Europe to maximize
benefits from migration and efficiently address challenges emerging from
multicultural societies, Mr Ashiotis went through some current demographic statistics
presented the changing and diverse environment being shaped in the late years
that Europe’s economies and societies are subject to influence
underlined the fundamental need for well managed legal migration in order to effectively
address structural problems and stated at the same time that it is an imperative to
accompany these policies with respective integration policies and strategies. He very much
emphasized the fact that integration should not be solely approached as a mere ar
or accounting topic reminding that the European history as well as Europe’s values and
social necessity and a historical duty to ensure a safe living
environment of full respect for human rights and diversity for all citizens who
live and work in the EU. The current phenomena of xenophobia and racism,
explained Mr Ashiotis, which under the present difficult conditions of the economic crisis
emerge particularly frequently and intense, highlight once again the need for closer
cooperation between the European states within the framework set by the Treaty of the
Functioning of the European Union. He further referred to the topics included on the
conference agenda, underlining that the active participation of immigrants in the political
and wider social life and their active involvement in the participatory processes particularly
on the local level, are benchmarks of democracy of the institutions. As regards the public
discourse over migration, he stated that certain terms and verbal symbolisms incorporated
in populist rhetoric configure the public debate, form perceptions and shape attitudes
in an unbalanced manner. In this respect, he described it as a
ration emerges on the political agenda only in negative connotations
whereas the contribution of migrants in Europe’s economy and society remains un
Mr Ashiotis closed his remarks thanking the European Commission for co-
akers and the Chair for accepting the Ministry’s Invitation to chair the meeting.
Member of the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home
of the European Parliament stated that integrating immigrants, refug
other minorities is a fundamental issue for Cyprus because,
unlike to other policy fields, integration is not an EU
competency field and secondly because the real duty for
promoting integration is born by institutions on the local and
regional level. Mr Triantafyllides expressed his satisfaction
about the announced forthcoming joint initiative in the field
between the European Commission and the Committee of
the Regions. Since it comes to the national authorities to
shape and directly implement integration policies, he
underlined the importance of an active engagement in the
process of the local and regional authorities because on this
Pa
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4
referred to integration of immigrants as an issue of high priority on the agenda of the
demonstrative of the
integration policies must
Underlining that integration has a key role to play in order for Europe to maximize
emerging from the diverse
current demographic statistics and
presented the changing and diverse environment being shaped in the late years and
that Europe’s economies and societies are subject to influences. He
underlined the fundamental need for well managed legal migration in order to effectively
at the same time that it is an imperative to
accompany these policies with respective integration policies and strategies. He very much
emphasized the fact that integration should not be solely approached as a mere arithmetic
Europe’s values and
duty to ensure a safe living
zens who - regardless of
xenophobia and racism,
explained Mr Ashiotis, which under the present difficult conditions of the economic crisis
t once again the need for closer
cooperation between the European states within the framework set by the Treaty of the
He further referred to the topics included on the
cipation of immigrants in the political
and wider social life and their active involvement in the participatory processes particularly
As regards the public
tated that certain terms and verbal symbolisms incorporated
in populist rhetoric configure the public debate, form perceptions and shape attitudes
it as a paradox that
ration emerges on the political agenda only in negative connotations,
whereas the contribution of migrants in Europe’s economy and society remains unattended.
-funding the event,
akers and the Chair for accepting the Ministry’s Invitation to chair the meeting.
, Justice and Home
stated that integrating immigrants, refugees and
other minorities is a fundamental issue for Cyprus because,
unlike to other policy fields, integration is not an EU
competency field and secondly because the real duty for
promoting integration is born by institutions on the local and
l. Mr Triantafyllides expressed his satisfaction
about the announced forthcoming joint initiative in the field
between the European Commission and the Committee of
the Regions. Since it comes to the national authorities to
gration policies, he
underlined the importance of an active engagement in the
process of the local and regional authorities because on this
SHAPING AND
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AND REG
“FILOXENIA
C
Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
level the real needs can be better comprehended and they can therefore be more
effectively addressed in a series of
and in particular in promoting equal treatment. As integration is a two
Triantafyllides emphasized that all efforts would be undermined if migrants themselves are
not equal partners in this consultation procedures that shall lead to respective policies and
stressed the importance that the public opinion is playing in this respect.
huge challenge to deal with stereotyping, discrimination and prejudice and
the central role that local governments and societies can play,
xenophobic and racist phenomena that under the current conditions of the economic crisis
seem to dramatically rise undermining the efforts to adopt an
relation to concerns expressed in opinion polls regarding migrants, Mr Triantafyllides noted
that it is not adequate to accuse migrants for the consequences of economic recession and
pointed out in specific to the fact that nowhere
migrants to society, economy and culture is made adequately visible arguing on the
importance of grounding debates around migration and migrants on
figures.
Ms Marta Cygan, Director of Immigration
Commission, thanked the organizers
participants and its diverse character constitute an excellent and comprehensive forum to
discuss integration and its relevant poli
of local and regional authorities is very particularly reflected in the new European agenda on
integration launched by the Commission in July 2011 and explained that integration is not a
one-dimensional policy area but it is
areas like education, culture, health, sport, etc. Although integration is a national
competency as a policy field and
harmonization is excluded, Ms Cygan
underlined that this field is
linked to a framework of legislations
and policies coordinated at the EU
level. In order to realize the benefits of
migration both for individuals and the
society in general, she characterized
integration as a cine qua non and
stressed the need for a holistic approach in relation to shaping and designing the respective
policies, where the local level, on which integration take place on a daily basis, is assigned a
central role in partnership with all European stakeholders concerned
governance. She particularly referred to
that Europe needs to develop and promote a positive attitude towards diversity and strong
guaranties for fundamental rights and equal treatment, building on mutual
different cultures and traditions. Ms Cygan argued furthermore that we need to
current challenges openly and based on objective information and
the long term and not only as a short term emergency based man
Commenting on the content of the background paper
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
level the real needs can be better comprehended and they can therefore be more
effectively addressed in a series of fields like education, health, housing and labour market
and in particular in promoting equal treatment. As integration is a two
Triantafyllides emphasized that all efforts would be undermined if migrants themselves are
n this consultation procedures that shall lead to respective policies and
stressed the importance that the public opinion is playing in this respect.
huge challenge to deal with stereotyping, discrimination and prejudice and
the central role that local governments and societies can play, making a special
xenophobic and racist phenomena that under the current conditions of the economic crisis
undermining the efforts to adopt and implement policies. In
relation to concerns expressed in opinion polls regarding migrants, Mr Triantafyllides noted
that it is not adequate to accuse migrants for the consequences of economic recession and
pointed out in specific to the fact that nowhere in Europe the positive contribution of
migrants to society, economy and culture is made adequately visible arguing on the
importance of grounding debates around migration and migrants on concrete
Director of Immigration and Asylum at the DG HOME of the European
organizers for the initiative and noted that the group of
participants and its diverse character constitute an excellent and comprehensive forum to
discuss integration and its relevant policies. Ms Cygan reminded that the fundamental role
of local and regional authorities is very particularly reflected in the new European agenda on
by the Commission in July 2011 and explained that integration is not a
icy area but it is rather cross-cutting horizontally many other policy
areas like education, culture, health, sport, etc. Although integration is a national
competency as a policy field and
harmonization is excluded, Ms Cygan
underlined that this field is closely
linked to a framework of legislations
and policies coordinated at the EU
level. In order to realize the benefits of
migration both for individuals and the
society in general, she characterized
integration as a cine qua non and
a holistic approach in relation to shaping and designing the respective
policies, where the local level, on which integration take place on a daily basis, is assigned a
central role in partnership with all European stakeholders concerned and
governance. She particularly referred to a key message of the integration agenda, namely
that Europe needs to develop and promote a positive attitude towards diversity and strong
guaranties for fundamental rights and equal treatment, building on mutual
different cultures and traditions. Ms Cygan argued furthermore that we need to
current challenges openly and based on objective information and approach migration on
the long term and not only as a short term emergency based man
Commenting on the content of the background paper in relation to references on
Pa
ge1
5
level the real needs can be better comprehended and they can therefore be more
fields like education, health, housing and labour market
and in particular in promoting equal treatment. As integration is a two-way process, Mr
Triantafyllides emphasized that all efforts would be undermined if migrants themselves are
n this consultation procedures that shall lead to respective policies and
stressed the importance that the public opinion is playing in this respect. It is in his view a
huge challenge to deal with stereotyping, discrimination and prejudice and he highlighted
making a special reference on
xenophobic and racist phenomena that under the current conditions of the economic crisis
d implement policies. In
relation to concerns expressed in opinion polls regarding migrants, Mr Triantafyllides noted
that it is not adequate to accuse migrants for the consequences of economic recession and
in Europe the positive contribution of
migrants to society, economy and culture is made adequately visible arguing on the
concrete facts and
and Asylum at the DG HOME of the European
and noted that the group of
participants and its diverse character constitute an excellent and comprehensive forum to
cies. Ms Cygan reminded that the fundamental role
of local and regional authorities is very particularly reflected in the new European agenda on
by the Commission in July 2011 and explained that integration is not a
cutting horizontally many other policy
areas like education, culture, health, sport, etc. Although integration is a national
a holistic approach in relation to shaping and designing the respective
policies, where the local level, on which integration take place on a daily basis, is assigned a
and on all levels of
key message of the integration agenda, namely
that Europe needs to develop and promote a positive attitude towards diversity and strong
guaranties for fundamental rights and equal treatment, building on mutual respect of the
different cultures and traditions. Ms Cygan argued furthermore that we need to address the
approach migration on
the long term and not only as a short term emergency based management issue.
in relation to references on the
SHAPING AND
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AND REG
“FILOXENIA
C
Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
possible “ideological differences
the member states policy-makers
be considered a duty that
concentrate on the very pragmatic and concrete aspects that integration and its policies
may cover.
07. SESSION I: INTEGRATI
THE VEHICLE TO ENHAN
Professor Floya Anthias opened this plenary session with her
presentation on “Diversity and integration discourses and
practices: the issue of social solidarity”
migrant integration as a complex one that relates to the role of
the central state, local governance and local actors. She
supported a conceptualisation of integration
construct a dichotomy between “them” and “us” but
attends to social solidarity more broadly conceived. She argued
furthermore for a robust notion of citizenship which draws from
notions of solidarity, interculturalism and intersectionality in
order to overcome some of the current difficulties in in
discourses and practices.
Describing Europe as a translocational and transnational space
characterised by flows of people and interculturality,
displacement and relocations of various types related to
migration but also to class, gender and other
Professor Anthias explained that it equally requires a transnational and translocational lens
for addressing questions of ‘integration’, diversity and belonging. She pointed out that social
cohesion policies in Europe assume that society should have homogenous values and
explained that ethnic, racial and national boundaries delimit access to employment,
education and social networks which are in turn prerequisites for the effective incorporation
of migrants.
As regards objectives and scopes of integration policies, Professor Anthias questioned who
the actual policy target is and to what this should be integrated into in order to further
problematise the fact that current approaches to integration and diversity t
European migrants while intra
measures and migratory controls. Noting that national culture should not be conceived as
internally homogenous, she supported a concept of social solidarity forg
proposed, in order to overcome the difficulties involved here, a new notion of social
solidarity which constructs bonds across differences thus capable of building a common
future based on dialogue and responsibility for the welfare of
of structurally embedded inequalities and discourses of racism and othering. Interlinked to
this notion, she proposed the notion of interculturalism that can provide a more
transformatory framing of relations between cultures
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
possible “ideological differences between the various actors dividing the EU structures and
makers”, Ms Cygan closed her remarks underlining that it should
duty that all stakeholders concerned overcome these obstacles and
very pragmatic and concrete aspects that integration and its policies
SESSION I: INTEGRATION THROUGH PARTICIPATION: ACTIVE CITIZENSHIP AS
THE VEHICLE TO ENHANCING BELONGING
opened this plenary session with her
“Diversity and integration discourses and
practices: the issue of social solidarity” describing the issue of
migrant integration as a complex one that relates to the role of
the central state, local governance and local actors. She
supported a conceptualisation of integration that did not
construct a dichotomy between “them” and “us” but rather
attends to social solidarity more broadly conceived. She argued
furthermore for a robust notion of citizenship which draws from
notions of solidarity, interculturalism and intersectionality in
order to overcome some of the current difficulties in integration
Describing Europe as a translocational and transnational space
characterised by flows of people and interculturality,
displacement and relocations of various types related to
migration but also to class, gender and other social categories of difference and identity,
Professor Anthias explained that it equally requires a transnational and translocational lens
for addressing questions of ‘integration’, diversity and belonging. She pointed out that social
n Europe assume that society should have homogenous values and
explained that ethnic, racial and national boundaries delimit access to employment,
education and social networks which are in turn prerequisites for the effective incorporation
regards objectives and scopes of integration policies, Professor Anthias questioned who
the actual policy target is and to what this should be integrated into in order to further
problematise the fact that current approaches to integration and diversity t
European migrants while intra-European movements are not subject to integration
measures and migratory controls. Noting that national culture should not be conceived as
internally homogenous, she supported a concept of social solidarity forged in difference and
proposed, in order to overcome the difficulties involved here, a new notion of social
solidarity which constructs bonds across differences thus capable of building a common
future based on dialogue and responsibility for the welfare of the migrant with the removal
of structurally embedded inequalities and discourses of racism and othering. Interlinked to
this notion, she proposed the notion of interculturalism that can provide a more
transformatory framing of relations between cultures and added the need for an Pa
ge1
6
the EU structures and
rlining that it should
stakeholders concerned overcome these obstacles and
very pragmatic and concrete aspects that integration and its policies
E CITIZENSHIP AS
social categories of difference and identity,
Professor Anthias explained that it equally requires a transnational and translocational lens
for addressing questions of ‘integration’, diversity and belonging. She pointed out that social
n Europe assume that society should have homogenous values and
explained that ethnic, racial and national boundaries delimit access to employment,
education and social networks which are in turn prerequisites for the effective incorporation
regards objectives and scopes of integration policies, Professor Anthias questioned who
the actual policy target is and to what this should be integrated into in order to further
problematise the fact that current approaches to integration and diversity target only non-
European movements are not subject to integration
measures and migratory controls. Noting that national culture should not be conceived as
ed in difference and
proposed, in order to overcome the difficulties involved here, a new notion of social
solidarity which constructs bonds across differences thus capable of building a common
the migrant with the removal
of structurally embedded inequalities and discourses of racism and othering. Interlinked to
this notion, she proposed the notion of interculturalism that can provide a more
and added the need for an
SHAPING AND
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AND REG
“FILOXENIA
C
Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
intersectional approach, paying attention to class, gender and other social divisions, which
would also involve the recognition of the global nature of social bonds and the need to
move away from ethnocentric lenses for achieving
Moreover, Professor Anthias supported a focus on policies wh
participation, parity and belonging which she sees as vital for integration. As she explained,
access should entail dismantling those social condit
resources and she advised against making a bright distinction between the so called diverse
and the normal “population” arguing that education, antiracist and antisexist policies are
important at all social levels as we
communication. Parity would furthermore involve equal treatment irrespective of country
of birth, gender, age, etc., while, however, legally adopted anti
would still be important but on their own inadequate. Professor Anthias argued finally for a
more inclusive notion of belonging quoting the famous Sociologist Georg Simmel’s writing
who uses the metaphor of the door to denote the connection between differences treating
it as a more fluid and more connected boundary. “If we have a more inclusive
understanding of ‘us’, we are less likely to reproduce the pitfalls associated with an
integration agenda which constructs ‘them’ and requires that ‘they’ become more like ‘us’
in order that they are accepted.” concluded the speaker.
Mr Paul Lappalainen who spoke
door presented initially a connection between structural and individual discrimination
spoke of a lack in policies
"integration". He further explained
lead to exclusion and a lack of
the failings of many so
always focus on helping, or educating, or controlling those
"other" people (foreigners, minorities, etc) and seldom focuses
on those with the power to discriminate. He
that discrimination basically un
language education, job training equivalency of foreign exams or
experience and underlined that if these efforts are not combined
with anti
feel good measures for maintainin
have any real relevance to "integration".
As regards the role of cities, Mr Lappalainen described
the forefront of change and explained that it is in urban areas
where people are subjected to racism and discrimination,
people come together and where clashes arise as well as
opportunities. He concluded that it is therefore cities that are (or
should be) in the front line of combating discrimination and
promoting equality while he made a reference to the US
whe
regulations banning discrimination, equal employment
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
intersectional approach, paying attention to class, gender and other social divisions, which
would also involve the recognition of the global nature of social bonds and the need to
move away from ethnocentric lenses for achieving inclusion and social justice.
Moreover, Professor Anthias supported a focus on policies whic
participation, parity and belonging which she sees as vital for integration. As she explained,
access should entail dismantling those social conditions that exclude people from social
resources and she advised against making a bright distinction between the so called diverse
and the normal “population” arguing that education, antiracist and antisexist policies are
important at all social levels as well as vigilance over racism and sexist discourses in mass
communication. Parity would furthermore involve equal treatment irrespective of country
of birth, gender, age, etc., while, however, legally adopted anti-discrimination measures
tant but on their own inadequate. Professor Anthias argued finally for a
more inclusive notion of belonging quoting the famous Sociologist Georg Simmel’s writing
who uses the metaphor of the door to denote the connection between differences treating
a more fluid and more connected boundary. “If we have a more inclusive
understanding of ‘us’, we are less likely to reproduce the pitfalls associated with an
integration agenda which constructs ‘them’ and requires that ‘they’ become more like ‘us’
that they are accepted.” concluded the speaker.
spoke on Equality as the key to integration –Cities can unlock the
a connection between structural and individual discrimination
in policies of a focus on discrimination/equality that
explained how discrimination and the inability to focus on equality
lead to exclusion and a lack of social cohesion
the failings of many so-called integration policies which almost
always focus on helping, or educating, or controlling those
"other" people (foreigners, minorities, etc) and seldom focuses
on those with the power to discriminate. He furthermore
that discrimination basically undermines efforts concerning
language education, job training equivalency of foreign exams or
experience and underlined that if these efforts are not combined
with anti-discrimination measures all too often
feel good measures for maintaining the status quo and seldom
have any real relevance to "integration".
As regards the role of cities, Mr Lappalainen described
the forefront of change and explained that it is in urban areas
where people are subjected to racism and discrimination,
people come together and where clashes arise as well as
opportunities. He concluded that it is therefore cities that are (or
should be) in the front line of combating discrimination and
promoting equality while he made a reference to the US
where many of the equality measures developed, such as
regulations banning discrimination, equal employment
Pa
ge1
7
intersectional approach, paying attention to class, gender and other social divisions, which
would also involve the recognition of the global nature of social bonds and the need to
inclusion and social justice.
ch enable access,
participation, parity and belonging which she sees as vital for integration. As she explained,
ions that exclude people from social
resources and she advised against making a bright distinction between the so called diverse
and the normal “population” arguing that education, antiracist and antisexist policies are
ll as vigilance over racism and sexist discourses in mass
communication. Parity would furthermore involve equal treatment irrespective of country
discrimination measures
tant but on their own inadequate. Professor Anthias argued finally for a
more inclusive notion of belonging quoting the famous Sociologist Georg Simmel’s writing
who uses the metaphor of the door to denote the connection between differences treating
a more fluid and more connected boundary. “If we have a more inclusive
understanding of ‘us’, we are less likely to reproduce the pitfalls associated with an
integration agenda which constructs ‘them’ and requires that ‘they’ become more like ‘us’
ities can unlock the
a connection between structural and individual discrimination and
that is undermining
and the inability to focus on equality
social cohesion and pointed out
ed integration policies which almost
always focus on helping, or educating, or controlling those
"other" people (foreigners, minorities, etc) and seldom focuses
furthermore argued
dermines efforts concerning
language education, job training equivalency of foreign exams or
experience and underlined that if these efforts are not combined
discrimination measures all too often they just become
g the status quo and seldom
As regards the role of cities, Mr Lappalainen described cities as
the forefront of change and explained that it is in urban areas
where people are subjected to racism and discrimination, where
people come together and where clashes arise as well as
opportunities. He concluded that it is therefore cities that are (or
should be) in the front line of combating discrimination and
promoting equality while he made a reference to the US case
re many of the equality measures developed, such as
regulations banning discrimination, equal employment
SHAPING AND
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AND REG
“FILOXENIA
C
Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
opportunities, and anti-discrimination clauses in public contracts, were originally initiated at
the local level. He underlined that cities have substa
argued that as they are democratic institutions they need to understand, reflect and serve
their residents (citizens). Within each of the
variety of social services, part
procurement and being important as rule
equality, as he furthermore explained. Mr Lappalainen concluded that if cities consciously
assume this role, at the same time they will be promoting democracy, human rights and
social cohesion at the local level and most significantly the may possibly provide a model for
the national government as well.
Mr Aristos Tsiartas, in his
migrants in Cyprus and the fight
discrimination” focused on the efforts of the Cyprus government
in the past years to implement an integration policy in
conditions constantly changing and while evolving integration of
migrants seems to be affecting the ideological foundations of the
society and the public discourse coincides with the current
economic crisis and thus intensifies incidents of racism and
discrimination. Mr Tsiartas characterized
equal treatment, access to fundamental social goods and labour
rights, education, health, anti
policies as some of the major challenges being currently at the
heart of public discourse. He
addressing these challenges arguing that this
the false assumption that migration ha
character. He stated that non
20% of the total Cyprus population
country of migrant destination.
dominant values of the traditional assumed collective homogeneity is being questioned
while the public discourse over migration faces two fundamental complications. The first
complication relates to the fact that societies are integrating others based on a system of
values and a political and ideological background, while
controversial issues remain unresolved and under negotiation. Also, the unresolved Cyprus
issue makes process difficult and
like the issues of diversity and multicultural coexistence, civic identity, etc. Mr Tsiartas
explained moreover that, under these same conditions
discrimination and integration should be dealt urgently, efficiently and thoroughly since
they have a central meaning in establishing and maintaining social cohesion. He recognized
the positive steps to the direction of
migrants’ rights, naming the National Integration Plan as
political developments. He underlined the need for an
level of other than only governmental representatives in order to r
such policies. He criticized that t
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
discrimination clauses in public contracts, were originally initiated at
the local level. He underlined that cities have substantial powers to promote equality and
argued that as they are democratic institutions they need to understand, reflect and serve
their residents (citizens). Within each of their roles, as usually large employers, providing a
variety of social services, participating in the local and national economies through public
procurement and being important as rule-makers in the local arena cities can promote
equality, as he furthermore explained. Mr Lappalainen concluded that if cities consciously
t the same time they will be promoting democracy, human rights and
social cohesion at the local level and most significantly the may possibly provide a model for
the national government as well.
in his presentation about “Integration of
migrants in Cyprus and the fight against racism and
focused on the efforts of the Cyprus government
in the past years to implement an integration policy in social
constantly changing and while evolving integration of
seems to be affecting the ideological foundations of the
society and the public discourse coincides with the current
economic crisis and thus intensifies incidents of racism and
characterized integration of migrants,
tment, access to fundamental social goods and labour
rights, education, health, anti-racism and anti-discrimination
policies as some of the major challenges being currently at the
heart of public discourse. He observes a significant delay in
arguing that this basically grounds on
migration has an exclusively temporary
non-Cypriot citizens represent around
20% of the total Cyprus population that turns the island to a
destination. Under the current conditions, the
of the traditional assumed collective homogeneity is being questioned
the public discourse over migration faces two fundamental complications. The first
he fact that societies are integrating others based on a system of
values and a political and ideological background, while at the same time
controversial issues remain unresolved and under negotiation. Also, the unresolved Cyprus
and hinders an open and unbiased social debate over questions
like the issues of diversity and multicultural coexistence, civic identity, etc. Mr Tsiartas
under these same conditions, complex issues like racism,
ation and integration should be dealt urgently, efficiently and thoroughly since
they have a central meaning in establishing and maintaining social cohesion. He recognized
the positive steps to the direction of promoting policies establishing
migrants’ rights, naming the National Integration Plan as one of the most significant
. He underlined the need for an active engagement
governmental representatives in order to reinforce
He criticized that to a large extend migration follows
Pa
ge1
8
discrimination clauses in public contracts, were originally initiated at
ntial powers to promote equality and
argued that as they are democratic institutions they need to understand, reflect and serve
roles, as usually large employers, providing a
icipating in the local and national economies through public
makers in the local arena cities can promote
equality, as he furthermore explained. Mr Lappalainen concluded that if cities consciously
t the same time they will be promoting democracy, human rights and
social cohesion at the local level and most significantly the may possibly provide a model for
of the traditional assumed collective homogeneity is being questioned
the public discourse over migration faces two fundamental complications. The first
he fact that societies are integrating others based on a system of
at the same time many
controversial issues remain unresolved and under negotiation. Also, the unresolved Cyprus
an open and unbiased social debate over questions
like the issues of diversity and multicultural coexistence, civic identity, etc. Mr Tsiartas
complex issues like racism,
ation and integration should be dealt urgently, efficiently and thoroughly since
they have a central meaning in establishing and maintaining social cohesion. He recognized
establishing safeguards for
most significant latest
ment on an institutional
einforce the legitimacy of
follows a solely economic
SHAPING AND
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AND REG
“FILOXENIA
C
Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
approach and does not focus on
like the issue of irregular migrants, human and l
rights, etc.
Under the current circumstances, Mr Tsiartas
the anti-immigrant climate that prevailed
documenting of racism incidents
severe sanctions for racism related offences
furthermore explained, prevailing racis
significantly contributing to a negatively connotated social and cultural migrant image, while
the evident positive contribution of migrants in growth and development of the last decades
hasn’t been appropriately exposed
underlined that despite the progress achieved, it still remains significant institutional
to be accomplished.
Discussion:
� Mr Doros Polycarpou, Executive Director of the Cypriot KISA NGO (Movement for
Action, Support and Antiracism)
political will and societal capacities, its seems that
take and with which steps to go forward with the integration agenda. He furthermore
underlined that he considers
and expressed his doubt that this principal is practically embraced in
As regards the role of the civil society, he
critisized for not being demanding enough, while other countries are prosecuting
movements, arguing that the civil society and NGOs
policy-making. He also raised
representative was included.
� Ms Murielle Maffessoli fr
the City (ORIV)” in Strasburg and representative of the RECI Network (Resources for Equal
Opportunities and Integration
governments are standing under pressure from the public opinion, but
authorities. In order to confirm that work accomplished on the local level is safeguarded in a
sustainable way, she suggested
and establish national policies. In this
action between all levels of internal national governance and in particular
national and the local level. Issues such as prejudices and stereotypes are
big urban areas, but small towns as well face similar challenges
different tools should be made available for every single case and situation
citizenship should be considered as a core issue and raised the question on how the link
between the citizens, the local governance and the national authoorities
better established.
� Mr Paul Lappalainen, in response to Dr. Margr
tools on the city level to test the effectiveness of anti
measures, he proposed that to t
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
does not focus on large-scale migration, nor it addresses many
like the issue of irregular migrants, human and labour rights, the gender dimension, civil
Under the current circumstances, Mr Tsiartas was not surprised of the increased intensity of
immigrant climate that prevailed and highlighted the luck of reliable recording and
racism incidents, as well as the fact that the current legislation
severe sanctions for racism related offences, is in practice not implemented. As he
furthermore explained, prevailing racist public discourse and misleading media coverage are
significantly contributing to a negatively connotated social and cultural migrant image, while
the evident positive contribution of migrants in growth and development of the last decades
hasn’t been appropriately exposed in entrepreneurial circles. In his conclusion, Mr Tsiartas
underlined that despite the progress achieved, it still remains significant institutional
Executive Director of the Cypriot KISA NGO (Movement for
Antiracism) noted that despite the significant existing potential of
political will and societal capacities, its seems that there is no determination
take and with which steps to go forward with the integration agenda. He furthermore
considers the equality principal as the backbone of integration policies
and expressed his doubt that this principal is practically embraced in all european countrie
s regards the role of the civil society, he explained that in some countries
demanding enough, while other countries are prosecuting
, arguing that the civil society and NGOs should be more actively engaged in
ed the fact that among the conference speakers no
from the French NGO “Observatory Regional integration and
in Strasburg and representative of the RECI Network (Resources for Equal
Integration) commented that in French context not only central
governments are standing under pressure from the public opinion, but
authorities. In order to confirm that work accomplished on the local level is safeguarded in a
ed that central governments support cities to counter pressure
and establish national policies. In this respect she raised the importance of coordinated
action between all levels of internal national governance and in particular
e local level. Issues such as prejudices and stereotypes are
big urban areas, but small towns as well face similar challenges. Ms Maffessoli
different tools should be made available for every single case and situation
citizenship should be considered as a core issue and raised the question on how the link
between the citizens, the local governance and the national authoorities
in response to Dr. Margret Spohn’s question over the appropriate
level to test the effectiveness of anti-discrimination policies and equality
measures, he proposed that to this end services from independent consultants Pa
ge1
9
many central issues,
abour rights, the gender dimension, civil
not surprised of the increased intensity of
the luck of reliable recording and
fact that the current legislation which entails
implemented. As he
public discourse and misleading media coverage are
significantly contributing to a negatively connotated social and cultural migrant image, while
the evident positive contribution of migrants in growth and development of the last decades
conclusion, Mr Tsiartas
underlined that despite the progress achieved, it still remains significant institutional work
Executive Director of the Cypriot KISA NGO (Movement for
despite the significant existing potential of
there is no determination which way to
take and with which steps to go forward with the integration agenda. He furthermore
the equality principal as the backbone of integration policies
european countries.
explained that in some countries NGOs are
demanding enough, while other countries are prosecuting NGO
actively engaged in
the fact that among the conference speakers no NGO
m the French NGO “Observatory Regional integration and
in Strasburg and representative of the RECI Network (Resources for Equal
commented that in French context not only central
governments are standing under pressure from the public opinion, but also the city
authorities. In order to confirm that work accomplished on the local level is safeguarded in a
that central governments support cities to counter pressure
respect she raised the importance of coordinated
action between all levels of internal national governance and in particular between the
e local level. Issues such as prejudices and stereotypes are not solely faced in
. Ms Maffessoli noted that
different tools should be made available for every single case and situation, explained that
citizenship should be considered as a core issue and raised the question on how the link
between the citizens, the local governance and the national authoorities can be question is
et Spohn’s question over the appropriate
discrimination policies and equality
independent consultants or NGOs
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could be useful for testing the equ
required to live up to. Situation testing and/or “mystery shoppers” were
of tecnhiques that could be used.
exercised by the local and national public opinion, Mr Lappalainen expressed his confidence
on the local potential to influence and change
argued for a bottom-up approach in bringing policies forward. He pointed to the
bigger cities can have a bigger political influence on the
that US cities have often been on the frontline of action for changes, demanding equality
and anti-discimination clauses, while the civil society and civil righ
carry out advocacy and mobilisation
and supported the local populations in understanding the debated issues.
� Mr Aristos Tsiartas confirmed that indeed in Cyprus a new
emerging, but still NGOs and the formal state’s authorities stand in a rivalry relationship. He
stated that tackling discrimination and establishing equality requires synergies between all
governmental and non – governmental stakeholders and unde
in this respect would give legitimation to
that the long-standing Cyprus issue is posing various obstacle preventing the opening of an
open and rational debate, while eig
court ruling is available. This
that are widely accepted and stand in accordance with European court ruling.
� Professor Floya Anthias
reality from a concern over social cohesion and other social issues and arises l
social demand over equality. In this sense, current integration policies are accompanied by
other legislation and restrictive measures
As regards the focus on the role of cities, she supported this approach noting that research
findings show that the major concerns of the
idea of ‘parallel communities
rather relate to health and employment issues and access to resources. Professor Anthias
concluded that since these considerations are evoked by general societal
little to do with the differences in others, prospects
unless these issues are more fundamentally tackled
08. SESSION II: TOWARDS
CONTRIBUTION OF MIGR
integration and outlined furthermore
in the city. Mr Folan gave
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
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funded by the European
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useful for testing the equality policies and principles that cities have or should be
required to live up to. Situation testing and/or “mystery shoppers” were
that could be used. As regards the comments on the political pressure
al and national public opinion, Mr Lappalainen expressed his confidence
influence and change policies at other governance levels and
up approach in bringing policies forward. He pointed to the
bigger political influence on the higher political level
that US cities have often been on the frontline of action for changes, demanding equality
discimination clauses, while the civil society and civil rights movements
advocacy and mobilisation processes, which put matters on the
the local populations in understanding the debated issues.
confirmed that indeed in Cyprus a new form of
emerging, but still NGOs and the formal state’s authorities stand in a rivalry relationship. He
stated that tackling discrimination and establishing equality requires synergies between all
governmental stakeholders and underlined that a holistic approach
give legitimation to policies. As regards citizenship issues, he explained
standing Cyprus issue is posing various obstacle preventing the opening of an
open and rational debate, while eight years after the EU accession only a handful of relevant
. This is evident for a reservation to effectively apply core principles
that are widely accepted and stand in accordance with European court ruling.
s argued that the political imperative for integration comes in
reality from a concern over social cohesion and other social issues and arises l
social demand over equality. In this sense, current integration policies are accompanied by
islation and restrictive measures particularly concerned with managing migration
As regards the focus on the role of cities, she supported this approach noting that research
findings show that the major concerns of the urban populations are not connected
parallel communities’ or to any problems posed by the migrant population, but
rather relate to health and employment issues and access to resources. Professor Anthias
concluded that since these considerations are evoked by general societal
little to do with the differences in others, prospects for integration of migrants remain low
unless these issues are more fundamentally tackled.
SESSION II: TOWARDS A DEMOCRATIC DISCOURSE ON MIGRATION: THE
CONTRIBUTION OF MIGRANTS
Mr Gerry Folan opened this plenary session
present Dublin’s policy framework
title “Towards Integration A City
Perspective”. He introduced how this policy
framework emerged in 2008 marking in
practice the beginning of the city discourse on
furthermore the context of migration and new settlement patterns
gave an overview on recent migration trends in Ireland where Pa
ge2
0
ality policies and principles that cities have or should be
required to live up to. Situation testing and/or “mystery shoppers” were concrete examples
As regards the comments on the political pressure
al and national public opinion, Mr Lappalainen expressed his confidence
policies at other governance levels and
up approach in bringing policies forward. He pointed to the fact that
political levels and explained
that US cities have often been on the frontline of action for changes, demanding equality
ts movements used to
put matters on the political agenda
the local populations in understanding the debated issues.
form of civil society is
emerging, but still NGOs and the formal state’s authorities stand in a rivalry relationship. He
stated that tackling discrimination and establishing equality requires synergies between all
rlined that a holistic approach
policies. As regards citizenship issues, he explained
standing Cyprus issue is posing various obstacle preventing the opening of an
accession only a handful of relevant
apply core principles
that are widely accepted and stand in accordance with European court ruling.
argued that the political imperative for integration comes in
reality from a concern over social cohesion and other social issues and arises less from a
social demand over equality. In this sense, current integration policies are accompanied by
particularly concerned with managing migration.
As regards the focus on the role of cities, she supported this approach noting that research
are not connected to the
or to any problems posed by the migrant population, but
rather relate to health and employment issues and access to resources. Professor Anthias
concluded that since these considerations are evoked by general societal concerns and have
migrants remain low
SE ON MIGRATION: THE
this plenary session to
Dublin’s policy framework bearing the
“Towards Integration A City
introduced how this policy
framework emerged in 2008 marking in
beginning of the city discourse on
the context of migration and new settlement patterns
an overview on recent migration trends in Ireland where
SHAPING AND
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Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
immigration was a key driver of Ireland’s exceptional economic growth from 2000
which became possible with the contribution of migrant workers.
decline in the economy it is anticipated that the mobility of populations within a European
and global context immigration will
socio-cultural profile the city and the new diversity trends
business, media, food, clubs, ethnic music and cultural expression.
Despite the limited governance role
integration is a matter which falls on the city and its network of agencies. He presented the
policy statement “Towards Integration A City Framework”
the issue of integration setting
at city level. A Steering Group guiding the policy is representing state, local government, city
agencies, the NGO sector and migrant communities and set out an agreed vision and
principles. An Office for Integration
framework by the adoption of a Declaration on Integration by leaders of state and city
organisations and a Charter of Commitment agreed by the Dublin City Council in partnership
with all stakeholders national, local, state and non
Furthermore, Mr Folan made
committed to create strategic alliances and synergies with networks and stakeholders,
initiate programmes, develop sharing knowledge and communicate
practices models were implemented in this respect including the Migrant Voters Campaign
for the 2009 local elections which
community in city decision making, the One City One People anti
on promoting a message of inclusion, belonging and non
discrimination. The Civic Participation Dublin Region initiative is an additional opportu
for collaboration between the
authorities and New Communities Partnership Network,
while the Dublin City Interfaith Forum is a joint initiative
of the Irish Council of Churches and the Dublin City
Council established to draw on the p
communities to promote and support integration.
Mr Folan concluded that the city’s immigration
experience has been concentrated within a very short
time interval during which growth and economic development enabled to absorb this new
migration influx. Although the city hardly adapted to the significant demographic change
brought about by economic growth, it now has to manage factors of economic decline. The
current economic climate is creating a level of uncertainty for everybody and integ
prove an even bigger challenge where competition for scarce resources will increase.
Mr Shahriar Shams Ili, in
contribution of migrants in the context of entrepreneurship”
entrepreneurial initiatives developed
demonstration of the economic contribution of migrants in growth and development. He
explained that in research migrants’
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
immigration was a key driver of Ireland’s exceptional economic growth from 2000
possible with the contribution of migrant workers. With the current dramatic
decline in the economy it is anticipated that the mobility of populations within a European
and global context immigration will persist. Mr Folan made moreover an intro
cultural profile the city and the new diversity trends of the city
business, media, food, clubs, ethnic music and cultural expression.
limited governance role of the municipal authority, Mr Folan explained that
integration is a matter which falls on the city and its network of agencies. He presented the
policy statement “Towards Integration A City Framework” as the city response
ting out the starting point for building the process of integration
at city level. A Steering Group guiding the policy is representing state, local government, city
agencies, the NGO sector and migrant communities and set out an agreed vision and
gration (OFI) established supported the implementation of this
framework by the adoption of a Declaration on Integration by leaders of state and city
organisations and a Charter of Commitment agreed by the Dublin City Council in partnership
olders national, local, state and non-governmental and the social partners.
Mr Folan made an overview on the approach followed by the OFI
committed to create strategic alliances and synergies with networks and stakeholders,
develop sharing knowledge and communicate migration
practices models were implemented in this respect including the Migrant Voters Campaign
for the 2009 local elections which aimed at activating the participation of migrant
ity in city decision making, the One City One People anti-racism campaign focussed
a message of inclusion, belonging and non-tolerance against racism and
discrimination. The Civic Participation Dublin Region initiative is an additional opportu
for collaboration between the four Dublin Local
authorities and New Communities Partnership Network,
while the Dublin City Interfaith Forum is a joint initiative
of the Irish Council of Churches and the Dublin City
Council established to draw on the potential of faith
communities to promote and support integration.
Mr Folan concluded that the city’s immigration
experience has been concentrated within a very short
growth and economic development enabled to absorb this new
influx. Although the city hardly adapted to the significant demographic change
brought about by economic growth, it now has to manage factors of economic decline. The
current economic climate is creating a level of uncertainty for everybody and integ
prove an even bigger challenge where competition for scarce resources will increase.
, in his presentation titled “Make it in Denmark, economic
contribution of migrants in the context of entrepreneurship”
entrepreneurial initiatives developed in Denmark among migrants
economic contribution of migrants in growth and development. He
migrants’ evident economic contribution has been
Pa
ge2
1
immigration was a key driver of Ireland’s exceptional economic growth from 2000-2008
With the current dramatic
decline in the economy it is anticipated that the mobility of populations within a European
introduction to the
of the city reflected in ethnic
Mr Folan explained that
integration is a matter which falls on the city and its network of agencies. He presented the
as the city response in 2008 to
point for building the process of integration
at city level. A Steering Group guiding the policy is representing state, local government, city
agencies, the NGO sector and migrant communities and set out an agreed vision and
implementation of this
framework by the adoption of a Declaration on Integration by leaders of state and city
organisations and a Charter of Commitment agreed by the Dublin City Council in partnership
governmental and the social partners.
overview on the approach followed by the OFI which is
committed to create strategic alliances and synergies with networks and stakeholders,
migration issues. Best
practices models were implemented in this respect including the Migrant Voters Campaign
the participation of migrant
racism campaign focussed
tolerance against racism and
discrimination. The Civic Participation Dublin Region initiative is an additional opportunity
growth and economic development enabled to absorb this new
influx. Although the city hardly adapted to the significant demographic change
brought about by economic growth, it now has to manage factors of economic decline. The
current economic climate is creating a level of uncertainty for everybody and integration will
prove an even bigger challenge where competition for scarce resources will increase.
“Make it in Denmark, economic
contribution of migrants in the context of entrepreneurship” introduced the
among migrants in an exemplary
economic contribution of migrants in growth and development. He
economic contribution has been in focus in the
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Co-funded by the
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past two decades, while at present
most attractive to address. He noted the significant challenges the Danish labour market has
been facing in the last decade by labour shortages
initiatives engaging men and women with ethnic minority background in entrepreneurship
activities.
the total city population have an ethnic minority background
non-western ethnic background and all migrants living in the country for more than 3 years
have local voting rights. Between 2000 and 2007 there has been a notable increase of the
share of migrants in city’s labour market while
Danish labour force, thus significantly helping in covering the labour shortages according to
the Danish Employer Federation. Also,
years constantly higher within
gastronomy or small repayments as of the native population.
Mr Shams Ili gave further information on programmes
support migrants’ businesses. He
initiatives aiming to professionalize these businesses and explained that a wide range of
projects has already been put into action facilitating knowledge of rules, legislation, basic
knowledge of entrepreneurial matte
programmes are focusing on diversity, revitalization of target group's ideas while women
entrepreneurs constitute a particular target group for starting ups. As regards the
newcomers, since 2008 there
employed as well as among their spouses
education and professional background are most valuable asset
Through cooperation with universities,
foreign students in the country after studies in order to provide entrepreneurship services
to students, mostly in English which is the language widely used. Initiatives also concentrate
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
present demographic changes have made the topic one of the
to address. He noted the significant challenges the Danish labour market has
been facing in the last decade by labour shortages and he focused on city programmes and
initiatives engaging men and women with ethnic minority background in entrepreneurship
Mr Shams Ili gave initially some brief
information on the city of Copenhagen
and his own unit, the Copenhagen
Business Service (CBS), which provides
business advisory support and offers a
number of services for start
focusing on counselling of young
people, women, shop owners and
entrepreneurs. In Copenhagen
the total city population have an ethnic minority background, 12,8% of employees have a
western ethnic background and all migrants living in the country for more than 3 years
have local voting rights. Between 2000 and 2007 there has been a notable increase of the
share of migrants in city’s labour market while more than 50000 migrants entered the
significantly helping in covering the labour shortages according to
the Danish Employer Federation. Also, start-ups rate among migrants has been in these
years constantly higher within certain service fields such as transportation, retail businesses,
gastronomy or small repayments as of the native population.
Mr Shams Ili gave further information on programmes carried out since 2002 aiming to
support migrants’ businesses. He referred to the outreach business advising as one of the
initiatives aiming to professionalize these businesses and explained that a wide range of
been put into action facilitating knowledge of rules, legislation, basic
knowledge of entrepreneurial matters and access to mentorship programmes.
programmes are focusing on diversity, revitalization of target group's ideas while women
entrepreneurs constitute a particular target group for starting ups. As regards the
, since 2008 there has been an increasing amount of interest in becoming self
employed as well as among their spouses. This does not constitute a surprise since high
education and professional background are most valuable assets used for new businesses.
ith universities, relevant initiatives have been also aiming at keeping
foreign students in the country after studies in order to provide entrepreneurship services
to students, mostly in English which is the language widely used. Initiatives also concentrate
on youth migrants in an
down the drop-off rate through
entrepreneurship. In this respect,
innovation courses have been introduced.
Further programmes consist of
networking activities, Boot Camps, Spring
Board, workshops and finally
of the ”Q- entrepreneur of the year”.
Pa
ge2
2
demographic changes have made the topic one of the
to address. He noted the significant challenges the Danish labour market has
cused on city programmes and
initiatives engaging men and women with ethnic minority background in entrepreneurship
Mr Shams Ili gave initially some brief
information on the city of Copenhagen
and his own unit, the Copenhagen
(CBS), which provides
business advisory support and offers a
number of services for start-ups,
focusing on counselling of young
people, women, shop owners and
entrepreneurs. In Copenhagen, 22% of
, 12,8% of employees have a
western ethnic background and all migrants living in the country for more than 3 years
have local voting rights. Between 2000 and 2007 there has been a notable increase of the
more than 50000 migrants entered the
significantly helping in covering the labour shortages according to
rate among migrants has been in these
service fields such as transportation, retail businesses,
since 2002 aiming to
reach business advising as one of the
initiatives aiming to professionalize these businesses and explained that a wide range of
been put into action facilitating knowledge of rules, legislation, basic
rs and access to mentorship programmes. In particular,
programmes are focusing on diversity, revitalization of target group's ideas while women
entrepreneurs constitute a particular target group for starting ups. As regards the
has been an increasing amount of interest in becoming self-
surprise since high
used for new businesses.
initiatives have been also aiming at keeping
foreign students in the country after studies in order to provide entrepreneurship services
to students, mostly in English which is the language widely used. Initiatives also concentrate
on youth migrants in an effort to bring
off rate through
entrepreneurship. In this respect,
innovation courses have been introduced.
programmes consist of
networking activities, Boot Camps, Spring
Board, workshops and finally the ++award
eur of the year”.
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Mr Shams Ili closed his presentation by
potential in migrants noting that this
currently under planning, he
motto “Make it in Denmark”
make their entrepreneurial dreams happen in Denmark.
called for a cancellation of third world debt by the year 2000. As quoted in
50th biblical Jubilee year, those enslaved because of debts are freed, lands lost beca
debt are returned and community torn by inequality is restored.
movement aimed to wipe out
reducing the total to about $37
the cost of a super modern bombarding aircraft
million children who would otherwise starve to death, the international community declined
the petition arguing that such an intervention
professor illustrated, market ethics were favoured over
discredited in such an outrageous way, Professor Tsiakalos added, the world community
should not be surprised about the rise of far
and propagating hatred. Professor Tsiakalos
destination EU member states of EU citizens exercising their right to free movement
benefit from this inflow, unlike to the
suffers to brain and resources
in public discourse, Professor
both to poverty and loss of population and while receiving countries benefit
essentially presents countries of destination
other threads. That is, today’s
mobility of EU citizens within the EU is turning the meaning of mobility
EU principle and a prospective
EU member states.
Integration as a two way process
While this is not the case, what we really have is a paternalistic behaviour pattern where
most powerful side determines the procedure
adapt as to be considered as integrated.
of teaching the mother tongue to immigrant children equally as teaching the language of
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
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funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
closed his presentation by stating his confidence of the great entrepreneurial
noting that this hasn’t yet been realized totally. As a next step
he referred to a campaign which will be carried out
motto “Make it in Denmark” aiming at encouraging entrepreneurs around the globe to
make their entrepreneurial dreams happen in Denmark.
Professor George Tsiakalos
speech how discourse and rhetoric develop
over migration and migrants are inter
how the latter is influencing the public discourse
in terms of meanings and impact
terminologies are having in public perceptions
the building of public opinion
Professor Tsiakalos went back to 1997 to
the Jubilee 2000 movement which was an
international initiative in over 40 countries that
called for a cancellation of third world debt by the year 2000. As quoted in
year, those enslaved because of debts are freed, lands lost beca
debt are returned and community torn by inequality is restored. As Professor explained, the
aimed to wipe out $90 billion of debt owed by the world's poorest nations,
reducing the total to about $37 billion. Although, as argued, saving such
of a super modern bombarding aircraft would practically mean saving the lives of 2
million children who would otherwise starve to death, the international community declined
e petition arguing that such an intervention would undermine the market ethics
arket ethics were favoured over human ethics. If human ethics are
discredited in such an outrageous way, Professor Tsiakalos added, the world community
should not be surprised about the rise of far-right hate groups campaigning against migrants
Professor Tsiakalos further referred to the fact that
destination EU member states of EU citizens exercising their right to free movement
, unlike to the EU countries of origin whose population declines
to brain and resources drain. In an illustration how rhetoric prevails over rationality
discourse, Professor argued that although countries of immigrants are suffering
oth to poverty and loss of population and while receiving countries benefit
presents countries of destination as the ones being under migration pressure and
today’s rhetoric use of the term migration to refer t
mobility of EU citizens within the EU is turning the meaning of mobility from a
and a prospective tool for wealth and progress to a thread
two way process requires that the two sides are homogenous and equal.
While this is not the case, what we really have is a paternalistic behaviour pattern where
most powerful side determines the procedure and its rules expecting that the other side will
ed as integrated. Professor Tsiakalos illustrated t
of teaching the mother tongue to immigrant children equally as teaching the language of
Pa
ge2
3
his confidence of the great entrepreneurial
been realized totally. As a next step
will be carried out under the
entrepreneurs around the globe to
Professor George Tsiakalos illustrated in his
speech how discourse and rhetoric developed
over migration and migrants are interrelated and
the public discourse
in terms of meanings and impacts that words and
terminologies are having in public perceptions, in
and policy making.
essor Tsiakalos went back to 1997 to refer to
the Jubilee 2000 movement which was an
international initiative in over 40 countries that
called for a cancellation of third world debt by the year 2000. As quoted in Leviticus, in the
year, those enslaved because of debts are freed, lands lost because of
As Professor explained, the
of debt owed by the world's poorest nations,
such an amount having
would practically mean saving the lives of 2
million children who would otherwise starve to death, the international community declined
the market ethics. As
If human ethics are
discredited in such an outrageous way, Professor Tsiakalos added, the world community
campaigning against migrants
referred to the fact that evidently
destination EU member states of EU citizens exercising their right to free movement in fact
of origin whose population declines and
. In an illustration how rhetoric prevails over rationality
that although countries of immigrants are suffering
oth to poverty and loss of population and while receiving countries benefit, rhetoric
being under migration pressure and
the term migration to refer to intra-EU
from a fundamental
for the destination
homogenous and equal.
While this is not the case, what we really have is a paternalistic behaviour pattern where the
and its rules expecting that the other side will
Professor Tsiakalos illustrated this in the example
of teaching the mother tongue to immigrant children equally as teaching the language of
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the receiving society and explained that
be acknowledged.
Concluding his speech, Professor
impact the understanding over migration
expected that a society disregarding deaths
today’s living migrants. He added in this respect that all failures of the modern society have
an impact in other fields of the social life and in this sense the increasing social and political
influence of populism and far
preferring to project our failures as migrants being incapable of integrating. In this sense, he
called upon stopping discussing migration as something that exclusively relates to
immigrants and underlined that
essentially a democratic failure of our own societies.
Discussion:
� As regard the existence of
explained that she considers the role of interfaith
added in this regard that minority feminists in the UK are questioning the effects that
funding faith groups might have on the diminution of circular spaces and that the operation
of faith groups often involve the s
of practices that faith groups may be implementing involved in.
integration policies in Dublin, she asked whether the gender aspect
context of the city’s policies and whether there
interfaith dialogue in general and funding and promotion of faith communities takes place.
� Mr Marius Dietrich from the Federal Chancellery of Germany commented on Professor
Tsiakalos’ references as regards today’s emerging negative connotation of the EU citizens’
free movement within the EU in the public perception and declared Germany’s
disagreement with this position as well as with some references included in the background
paper. As Mr Dietrich explained, the German authorities consider that non
imposed integration measures, such as language learning, access to knowledge and services,
are required not only for third
right for free movement.
� Ms Ana Feder from the EUROCITIES
authorities and noted that the financial aspect
background paper and the concept note. She very m
a strengthened role and a serious competency of the local governance on the issues
discussed. She furthermore agreed that social inclusion and welfare
concern for all population, refering to both
nationals, but noted that this is not sufficiently reflected
in funding policies at the national and the EU levels. In
view of the discussions on th
period’s EU financial instruments currently under
negotiation, she supported the European Commission’s
position on the matter proposing the strengthening of
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
and explained that in a two way process people independence should
Concluding his speech, Professor summarized how the rhetoric over Jubilee 2000 would
impact the understanding over migration calling upon to problematise whether it should be
a society disregarding deaths of people would act with more conscious
today’s living migrants. He added in this respect that all failures of the modern society have
an impact in other fields of the social life and in this sense the increasing social and political
influence of populism and far-right extremism should be no surprise if we continue
preferring to project our failures as migrants being incapable of integrating. In this sense, he
called upon stopping discussing migration as something that exclusively relates to
underlined that the depiction of migrants as incapable of integrating is
essentially a democratic failure of our own societies.
existence of “faith communities”, although Professor Floya Anthias
explained that she considers the role of interfaith dialogue to be extremely important
added in this regard that minority feminists in the UK are questioning the effects that
funding faith groups might have on the diminution of circular spaces and that the operation
of faith groups often involve the subordination of the women and the ratification therefore
of practices that faith groups may be implementing involved in. As regard practicing
integration policies in Dublin, she asked whether the gender aspect was
icies and whether there was a city dialogue over the ways that
interfaith dialogue in general and funding and promotion of faith communities takes place.
from the Federal Chancellery of Germany commented on Professor
Tsiakalos’ references as regards today’s emerging negative connotation of the EU citizens’
free movement within the EU in the public perception and declared Germany’s
sition as well as with some references included in the background
paper. As Mr Dietrich explained, the German authorities consider that non
imposed integration measures, such as language learning, access to knowledge and services,
red not only for third-country nationals but also for EU citizens exercising their
Ms Ana Feder from the EUROCITIES referred to the funding opportunities of the local
authorities and noted that the financial aspect wasn’t adequately reflected in the
background paper and the concept note. She very much confirmed EUROCITIES’ support on
a strengthened role and a serious competency of the local governance on the issues
discussed. She furthermore agreed that social inclusion and welfare issues are of great
refering to both EU citizens on the move and third
nationals, but noted that this is not sufficiently reflected
in funding policies at the national and the EU levels. In
view of the discussions on the establishment of next
period’s EU financial instruments currently under
negotiation, she supported the European Commission’s
position on the matter proposing the strengthening of Pa
ge2
4
in a two way process people independence should
how the rhetoric over Jubilee 2000 would
to problematise whether it should be
h more consciously over
today’s living migrants. He added in this respect that all failures of the modern society have
an impact in other fields of the social life and in this sense the increasing social and political
tremism should be no surprise if we continue
preferring to project our failures as migrants being incapable of integrating. In this sense, he
called upon stopping discussing migration as something that exclusively relates to
the depiction of migrants as incapable of integrating is
Professor Floya Anthias
dialogue to be extremely important, she
added in this regard that minority feminists in the UK are questioning the effects that
funding faith groups might have on the diminution of circular spaces and that the operation
ubordination of the women and the ratification therefore
As regard practicing
was addressed in the
a city dialogue over the ways that
interfaith dialogue in general and funding and promotion of faith communities takes place.
from the Federal Chancellery of Germany commented on Professor
Tsiakalos’ references as regards today’s emerging negative connotation of the EU citizens’
free movement within the EU in the public perception and declared Germany’s
sition as well as with some references included in the background
paper. As Mr Dietrich explained, the German authorities consider that non-binding and not
imposed integration measures, such as language learning, access to knowledge and services,
country nationals but also for EU citizens exercising their
referred to the funding opportunities of the local
ly reflected in the
ch confirmed EUROCITIES’ support on
a strengthened role and a serious competency of the local governance on the issues
issues are of great
EU citizens on the move and third-country
SHAPING AND
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Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
the role of the local authorities with sufficient tools for migration and a
appeal to enforce and provide
cope with their role in promoting
� Ms Marta Cygan delivered the European Commission’s position as regards t
differentiation between integration policies foreseen for third country nationals and the EU
citizens’ right to exercise free mo
that free movement within the EU is one of the fundamental principles o
distinguished this principle from policies that concern first and foremost third
nationals entering the EU territory
is necessary in particular when
competency framework of the EU and its institutions
conference debates and positions expressed
background paper, cover inte
measures, in all their complexity and in a wider
current EU legal framekwork.
� Responding to an issue raised by the Chairman
that the increasing entrepreneurial activity in the city of Copenhagen could be resulting
from increasing discrimination and exclusion,
many of the migrants taking initiatives to set up their own enterp
they find no other employment opportunities. However, discrimination would be a wide
field of research and it might be
unemployment rates within
instance, a result of insufficient qualification, language skills, etc.
factors.
� As regards a question raised whether the Dublin city authorities have developed a
monitoring mechanism based on integrat
effectiveness of policies and strategies adopted,
monitoring report in disposal
education, healthcare and civic
comprehensive mechanism available and explained that the city considers that the
development of such a model would be a necessary step in order to facilitate the
measurement of strategies
government is currently envisaging the development of a comprehensive set of indicators
drawn from a number of relevant areas and sources and expertise on their application from
other networks. Questioned whether the state institutionalized the competency of the local
authorities in integration issues, Mr Folan explained that in this regard local authorities in
Ireland enjoy by law a general competency to act
members and in this context cities are taking the lead to deal with these issue
to funding, the central government cover
the need for increasing the relevant funding. In response to Professor Anthias’ rem
interfaith dialogue and gender issues, Mr Folan agreed with the need to proceed carefully
with interfaith issues and added that
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
the role of the local authorities with sufficient tools for migration and asylum and made an
to enforce and provide local governments with the necessary resources in order to
promoting integration and managing diversity issues.
delivered the European Commission’s position as regards t
differentiation between integration policies foreseen for third country nationals and the EU
right to exercise free movement across the EU member states. Ms Cygan declared
that free movement within the EU is one of the fundamental principles of the EU and clearly
distinguished this principle from policies that concern first and foremost third
nationals entering the EU territory to reside legally. She made clear that
when we refer to policies, action and support within the
competency framework of the EU and its institutions recognizing though that the
and positions expressed, as well as some references included in the
background paper, cover integration and other related issues, such
complexity and in a wider political and social context
raised by the Chairman questioning whether there
that the increasing entrepreneurial activity in the city of Copenhagen could be resulting
from increasing discrimination and exclusion, Mr Shahriar Shams Ili stated that indeed
many of the migrants taking initiatives to set up their own enterprise might do so because
they find no other employment opportunities. However, discrimination would be a wide
field of research and it might be not very justified to draw conclusions
unemployment rates within the migrant population is a result of discrimination or
a result of insufficient qualification, language skills, etc. or a consequence of other
As regards a question raised whether the Dublin city authorities have developed a
monitoring mechanism based on integration indicators for the measurement of the
effectiveness of policies and strategies adopted, Mr Gerry Folan replied that there is a
monitoring report in disposal which focuses on activities in various areas, in particular in
education, healthcare and civic participation. He stated that, however, there is no
mechanism available and explained that the city considers that the
development of such a model would be a necessary step in order to facilitate the
strategies implemented. He furthermore informed that the city
government is currently envisaging the development of a comprehensive set of indicators
drawn from a number of relevant areas and sources and expertise on their application from
whether the state institutionalized the competency of the local
authorities in integration issues, Mr Folan explained that in this regard local authorities in
Ireland enjoy by law a general competency to act to the best interest of their community
and in this context cities are taking the lead to deal with these issue
to funding, the central government covers 50% of the necessary resources and confirmed
the need for increasing the relevant funding. In response to Professor Anthias’ rem
interfaith dialogue and gender issues, Mr Folan agreed with the need to proceed carefully
and added that the city forum that had been established
Pa
ge2
5
sylum and made an
resources in order to
diversity issues.
delivered the European Commission’s position as regards the
differentiation between integration policies foreseen for third country nationals and the EU
vement across the EU member states. Ms Cygan declared
f the EU and clearly
distinguished this principle from policies that concern first and foremost third-country
this differentiation
, action and support within the
though that the current
, as well as some references included in the
such as social inclusion
context not limited in the
whether there is evidence
that the increasing entrepreneurial activity in the city of Copenhagen could be resulting
stated that indeed
rise might do so because
they find no other employment opportunities. However, discrimination would be a wide
not very justified to draw conclusions whether higher
lt of discrimination or, for
or a consequence of other
As regards a question raised whether the Dublin city authorities have developed a
ion indicators for the measurement of the
replied that there is a
on activities in various areas, in particular in
participation. He stated that, however, there is no other
mechanism available and explained that the city considers that the
development of such a model would be a necessary step in order to facilitate the
. He furthermore informed that the city
government is currently envisaging the development of a comprehensive set of indicators
drawn from a number of relevant areas and sources and expertise on their application from
whether the state institutionalized the competency of the local
authorities in integration issues, Mr Folan explained that in this regard local authorities in
the best interest of their community
and in this context cities are taking the lead to deal with these issues. In relation
resources and confirmed
the need for increasing the relevant funding. In response to Professor Anthias’ remarks on
interfaith dialogue and gender issues, Mr Folan agreed with the need to proceed carefully
established within the
SHAPING AND
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“FILOXENIA
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Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
previous 12 months, demonstrates strong female leadership with three
being women.
� Professor George Tsiakalos
of EU citizens were made within the wider context of the discourse and
migration and in particular over
point out that, unlike to the term “free movement”,
relevant terms, in connection with the EU citizens
movement might provides the te
regulations are solely imposed to third country migrants and have a restrictive character.
However, Professor Tsiakalos agreed that the governments should deal with all issues
related to social welfare policies covering the whole of a population residing in every
country.
09. SESSION III: PARADIGMS OF MULTI
AND IMPLEMENTATION O
as a part of all relevant policy portfolios and across all governance levels.
Crowley, the main challenge is to find the means to mobilize the necessary links and make
coherent different levels of governance behind the goals of equality and non
He underlined that integration policies without equality ends up in disempowering migrants
and creating a society divided in two and
integration should therefore
discrimination. Mr Crowley based his presentation on the work accomplished and the
relevant report recently produced
European Commission. The network recognises the key potential o
authorities to advance equality and non
to establish equality as a national standard for governance and to address the revealed
limited commitment and low capacity in implementing equalit
levels. Also identified is in the report
between local/regional and national levels.
Given the present conditions of reduced financial resources
decentralisation in governance arrangements and to a fragmentation of policy areas, Mr
Crowley argued that these conditions are particularly aggravating for the implementation of
policies advancing equality because they weaken linkages between the different gov
levels and ultimately favour policy incoherence. As regards the commitment of the various
governance levels, findings
prioritised, superficial and unevenly spread commitment, while capacity defi
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
, demonstrates strong female leadership with three
Professor George Tsiakalos further explained that his comments on the free movement
were made within the wider context of the discourse and
migration and in particular over the use of specific terms and words. His objective was to
, unlike to the term “free movement”, the word “migration”, as well as other
relevant terms, in connection with the EU citizens in fact exercising the right to free
provides the term with a more threatening content since migration policy
regulations are solely imposed to third country migrants and have a restrictive character.
However, Professor Tsiakalos agreed that the governments should deal with all issues
are policies covering the whole of a population residing in every
MS OF MULTI-LEVEL GOVERNANCE IN THE DESIGN
AND IMPLEMENTATION OF INTEGRATION POLICIES
Mr Niall Crowley spoke about the importance of
level governance for the achievement of equality and
non-discrimination” elaborating on how
possible to develop the general and specific policy
frameworks in order to effectively address the need of
designing and adopting integration policies and measures
of all relevant policy portfolios and across all governance levels.
he main challenge is to find the means to mobilize the necessary links and make
coherent different levels of governance behind the goals of equality and non
He underlined that integration policies without equality ends up in disempowering migrants
and creating a society divided in two and, in this sense, multi-level governance for
therefore be transposed to multi-level governance for equality and non
discrimination. Mr Crowley based his presentation on the work accomplished and the
produced by the socioeconomic network of experts set up by the
European Commission. The network recognises the key potential o
authorities to advance equality and non-discrimination, while it acknowledges the challenge
to establish equality as a national standard for governance and to address the revealed
limited commitment and low capacity in implementing equality strategies at regional/local
in the report the importance of partnerships for governance
between local/regional and national levels.
Given the present conditions of reduced financial resources and of an increased trend to
tralisation in governance arrangements and to a fragmentation of policy areas, Mr
these conditions are particularly aggravating for the implementation of
policies advancing equality because they weaken linkages between the different gov
favour policy incoherence. As regards the commitment of the various
governance levels, findings included in the report include an under
prioritised, superficial and unevenly spread commitment, while capacity defi Pa
ge2
6
, demonstrates strong female leadership with three council members
further explained that his comments on the free movement
were made within the wider context of the discourse and the rhetoric over
terms and words. His objective was to
the word “migration”, as well as other
exercising the right to free
rm with a more threatening content since migration policy
regulations are solely imposed to third country migrants and have a restrictive character.
However, Professor Tsiakalos agreed that the governments should deal with all issues
are policies covering the whole of a population residing in every
THE DESIGN
the importance of “multi-
the achievement of equality and
on how it is best
to develop the general and specific policy
frameworks in order to effectively address the need of
designing and adopting integration policies and measures
of all relevant policy portfolios and across all governance levels. According to Mr
he main challenge is to find the means to mobilize the necessary links and make
coherent different levels of governance behind the goals of equality and non-discrimination.
He underlined that integration policies without equality ends up in disempowering migrants
level governance for
for equality and non-
discrimination. Mr Crowley based his presentation on the work accomplished and the
by the socioeconomic network of experts set up by the
European Commission. The network recognises the key potential of regional/local
discrimination, while it acknowledges the challenge
to establish equality as a national standard for governance and to address the revealed
y strategies at regional/local
the importance of partnerships for governance
an increased trend to
tralisation in governance arrangements and to a fragmentation of policy areas, Mr
these conditions are particularly aggravating for the implementation of
policies advancing equality because they weaken linkages between the different governance
favour policy incoherence. As regards the commitment of the various
include an under-developed, de-
prioritised, superficial and unevenly spread commitment, while capacity deficiencies are
SHAPING AND
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AND REG
“FILOXENIA
C
Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
reflected in limited knowledge, skills and interest to achieve equality and non
goals, engage with stakeholders and policy processes. Mr Crowley underlined
limited commitment and capacity create significant uncertainti
delegated tasks and they therefore present major obstacles.
Looking at how links between the various governance levels might enhance equality and
non-discrimination, Mr Crowley presented five approaches that enable different levels
governance to combine and transmit influence to achieve goals of equality and non
discrimination. These are the cultural, finance, legal, monitoring and the administration
approaches. He further introduced in each case the tools and the means which can
deployed to facilitate influence from one governance level to the other.
In his closing remarks, Mr Crowley underlined that we are generally moving to greater
decentralization and models of networked governance, what in his view suggests a shift
from notions of control to notions of influence between levels of governance. In order to
enable multi-level governance to better advance goals of equality and non
he supported to further explore and develop the cultural factor approach while de
capacities and creating influence between the various governance levels through shared
values, common understanding and agreed goals. The key challenge, he concluded, is from
now on that decision-makers and policy
resources in the processes required.
Dr. Cristian Pirvulescu presented
the position of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) on the European
Agenda for the Integration of Third
European Commission. He urged the EU Member States to make integration a high priority
safeguarding in this way an open, inclusive and stable democratic environment at national
level and called for more efforts at the EU level, while further attention is needed
concerning the application of the European financial instruments and the implementatio
the existing legislation.
The EESC rapporteur begun with a brief
introduction on the development in the
past decade of the EU integration
agenda leading to last year’s European
Commission communication on a
renewed European agenda for the
integration. Recognizing that the communication covers a broad series of key areas of
intervention and clarifies roles and responsibilities in the design and implementation of the
integration agenda, the EESC note
authorities to become more involved in the process. Also, under the conditions of the
current economic crisis, the EESC suggests to reconsider the proposal regarding the specific
institutional and financial instruments supporting the integration obj
particularly warns to adopt measures to adopt and implement sustained, far
bold communication actions aimed at curbing the increasing anti
attitudes.
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
reflected in limited knowledge, skills and interest to achieve equality and non
goals, engage with stakeholders and policy processes. Mr Crowley underlined
limited commitment and capacity create significant uncertainties over how to implement
therefore present major obstacles.
Looking at how links between the various governance levels might enhance equality and
discrimination, Mr Crowley presented five approaches that enable different levels
governance to combine and transmit influence to achieve goals of equality and non
discrimination. These are the cultural, finance, legal, monitoring and the administration
approaches. He further introduced in each case the tools and the means which can
deployed to facilitate influence from one governance level to the other.
In his closing remarks, Mr Crowley underlined that we are generally moving to greater
decentralization and models of networked governance, what in his view suggests a shift
notions of control to notions of influence between levels of governance. In order to
level governance to better advance goals of equality and non
he supported to further explore and develop the cultural factor approach while de
capacities and creating influence between the various governance levels through shared
values, common understanding and agreed goals. The key challenge, he concluded, is from
makers and policy-makers decide whether to invest ti
resources in the processes required.
presented in his speech titled “Integration through participation”
the position of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) on the European
Agenda for the Integration of Third-Country Nationals launched in May 2011
European Commission. He urged the EU Member States to make integration a high priority
uarding in this way an open, inclusive and stable democratic environment at national
level and called for more efforts at the EU level, while further attention is needed
concerning the application of the European financial instruments and the implementatio
with a brief
introduction on the development in the
past decade of the EU integration
agenda leading to last year’s European
Commission communication on a
renewed European agenda for the
. Recognizing that the communication covers a broad series of key areas of
intervention and clarifies roles and responsibilities in the design and implementation of the
integration agenda, the EESC notes that it is still unclear what the incentives are for
authorities to become more involved in the process. Also, under the conditions of the
current economic crisis, the EESC suggests to reconsider the proposal regarding the specific
institutional and financial instruments supporting the integration objectives, while it very
particularly warns to adopt measures to adopt and implement sustained, far
bold communication actions aimed at curbing the increasing anti-immigration discourse and
Pa
ge2
7
reflected in limited knowledge, skills and interest to achieve equality and non-discrimination
goals, engage with stakeholders and policy processes. Mr Crowley underlined that thus
es over how to implement
Looking at how links between the various governance levels might enhance equality and
discrimination, Mr Crowley presented five approaches that enable different levels of
governance to combine and transmit influence to achieve goals of equality and non-
discrimination. These are the cultural, finance, legal, monitoring and the administration
approaches. He further introduced in each case the tools and the means which can be
In his closing remarks, Mr Crowley underlined that we are generally moving to greater
decentralization and models of networked governance, what in his view suggests a shift
notions of control to notions of influence between levels of governance. In order to
level governance to better advance goals of equality and non-discrimination,
he supported to further explore and develop the cultural factor approach while deepening
capacities and creating influence between the various governance levels through shared
values, common understanding and agreed goals. The key challenge, he concluded, is from
makers decide whether to invest time and
“Integration through participation”
the position of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) on the European
Country Nationals launched in May 2011 by the
European Commission. He urged the EU Member States to make integration a high priority
uarding in this way an open, inclusive and stable democratic environment at national
level and called for more efforts at the EU level, while further attention is needed
concerning the application of the European financial instruments and the implementation of
. Recognizing that the communication covers a broad series of key areas of
intervention and clarifies roles and responsibilities in the design and implementation of the
that it is still unclear what the incentives are for these
authorities to become more involved in the process. Also, under the conditions of the
current economic crisis, the EESC suggests to reconsider the proposal regarding the specific
ectives, while it very
particularly warns to adopt measures to adopt and implement sustained, far-reaching and
immigration discourse and
SHAPING AND
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AND REG
“FILOXENIA
C
Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
The EESC furthermore is suggest
considers that a broader integration agenda
in other Member States, most
problematic field of participation in the civic and political life of local and national
communities, highlighted in the Commission’s communication, in the EESC’s view
communication fails to convey a determined message regarding its necessity, support and
specific instruments to promote this participation.
Regarding migrants, the EESC advocates a shift of perspective because they are in many
cases seen as a potential burden on the social security systems and considers migrants to be
first and foremost bearers of fundamental right
economy and culture of the host countries.
achieved with certain legislative actions, but emphasized that
labour discriminate against workers/
reinforce inequalities noting that
skilled and low-skilled workers granting them differing levels of rights.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Pirvulescu
coming years’ key elements and advocated to continue linking the integration agenda with
other major policy priorities, such as the Europe 2020 strategy but also the agenda on the
protection of fundamental rights. He also expressed the EESC’s commitment to advanced
cooperation with the other European institutions
welcoming focus on the local level, while he particularly welcomed work accomplished in
relation to the European indicators project. Dr. Pirvulescu expressed finally the EESC’s
readiness to further work on linking European civil society to the integration agenda and
facilitating the participation of third
level.
Dr. Margret Spohn spoke about
“Intercultural Integration – What it is, what we do and how we pay for it
that the local level is in fact the
the city’s main migration policy approach grounds on an integration concept that facilitates
equal access for all inhabitants
Bavarian capital city which is the Ger
Defining integration as “equal access to core institutions such as education, work, housing,
healthcare etc.”, the city government
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
suggesting incorporating diversity into policy thinking, while it
considers that a broader integration agenda should include EU nationals living and working
in other Member States, most particularly the Roma population. As regards the particularly
pation in the civic and political life of local and national
communities, highlighted in the Commission’s communication, in the EESC’s view
fails to convey a determined message regarding its necessity, support and
promote this participation.
Regarding migrants, the EESC advocates a shift of perspective because they are in many
cases seen as a potential burden on the social security systems and considers migrants to be
first and foremost bearers of fundamental rights, but also contributors to the society,
economy and culture of the host countries. Dr. Pirvulescu further acknowledged progress
achieved with certain legislative actions, but emphasized that the EU directives regarding
labour discriminate against workers/migrants on the basis of their origin and skills and
noting that EU labour regulations make a distinction between highly
skilled workers granting them differing levels of rights.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Pirvulescu suggested to dedicate integration as one of the
and advocated to continue linking the integration agenda with
other major policy priorities, such as the Europe 2020 strategy but also the agenda on the
ights. He also expressed the EESC’s commitment to advanced
cooperation with the other European institutions, to further work on the integration agenda
welcoming focus on the local level, while he particularly welcomed work accomplished in
uropean indicators project. Dr. Pirvulescu expressed finally the EESC’s
readiness to further work on linking European civil society to the integration agenda and
facilitating the participation of third-country nationals in a structured dialogue at European
about the experience of the city of Munich presenting
What it is, what we do and how we pay for it
in fact the one where integration really takes place and explained that
main migration policy approach grounds on an integration concept that facilitates
equal access for all inhabitants. Dr. Spohn gave initially some general information about the
Bavarian capital city which is the German city with the highest percentage of people having
some immigrant background, defined as
these people who either
their parents migrated to Germany after
the 1st January 1955. She then played a
short film which is a part
campaign named “at home in Munich”
presented during the naturalization
ceremonies that take
twice a year.
“equal access to core institutions such as education, work, housing,
the city government avoids any other definition grounding on cultural
Pa
ge2
8
diversity into policy thinking, while it
include EU nationals living and working
the Roma population. As regards the particularly
pation in the civic and political life of local and national
communities, highlighted in the Commission’s communication, in the EESC’s view the
fails to convey a determined message regarding its necessity, support and
Regarding migrants, the EESC advocates a shift of perspective because they are in many
cases seen as a potential burden on the social security systems and considers migrants to be
s, but also contributors to the society,
further acknowledged progress
directives regarding
migrants on the basis of their origin and skills and
EU labour regulations make a distinction between highly-
suggested to dedicate integration as one of the
and advocated to continue linking the integration agenda with
other major policy priorities, such as the Europe 2020 strategy but also the agenda on the
ights. He also expressed the EESC’s commitment to advanced
to further work on the integration agenda
welcoming focus on the local level, while he particularly welcomed work accomplished in
uropean indicators project. Dr. Pirvulescu expressed finally the EESC’s
readiness to further work on linking European civil society to the integration agenda and
country nationals in a structured dialogue at European
city of Munich presenting the issue
What it is, what we do and how we pay for it.”. She underlined
takes place and explained that
main migration policy approach grounds on an integration concept that facilitates
Dr. Spohn gave initially some general information about the
man city with the highest percentage of people having
some immigrant background, defined as
who either they or one of
their parents migrated to Germany after
. She then played a
short film which is a part of a broader
ign named “at home in Munich”
presented during the naturalization
that take place in Munich
“equal access to core institutions such as education, work, housing,
any other definition grounding on cultural
SHAPING AND
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AND REG
“FILOXENIA
C
Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
aspects and favors a focus
constitution. As regards the core integration concept, this
Parliament following a four year consultati
organizations, free welfare organizations, refugee organizations and other groups of civil
society. The process resulted in a conceptualiz
and mandatory task and in a
departments to an intercultural policy aiming at the provision of equal access for everybody
and to more opportunities for active participation.
where equal access has still not been achieved, namely intercultural mainstreaming,
political and social participation, education, vocational training and job market, language
learning of both mother language and German and fighting discrimination.
Dr. Spohn gave further details on how these policies are financed.
called integration courses, covering language and orientation courses for newly arrived
migrants, are mandatory and are paid by the
amount the city authorities provide cannot be exactly estimated because
treated as a cross sectional task
tailor-made projects in case of general needs, like for example the local employment
qualification programme which focuses on long term unemployment
Euro at its disposal. A third possibility is to finance integration initiatives and programmes
through external sources. An example
which is financed by the Federal office for Migration and Refugees and the European
Integration Fund and which aims at providing all necessary skills, knowledge and
competences to imams in order to provide social work, advice and support t
members.
Dr. Ludovica Banfi begun her presentation
topic “Moving toward migrants’ integration into the
healthcare system Results from the project
Inequalities and Multiple Discrimination in Access to
and Quality of Healthcare”
definitions emerging from the most important EU
policy documents concerning migrant integration into
the healthcare system. She subsequently
part of the results acquired from a research recently conducted by the FRA on inequalities
and multiple discrimination in access to and quality of the healthcare system titled
“Inequalities and multiple discrimination in access to and quality o
2012)”. The research is focusing
Examining the role given to the healthcare issues in the relevant migration and integration
policies adopted, the speaker made particular re
EU Council to create an evaluation mechanism based on common integration indicators in a
number of relevant policy areas noting that health has been considered an element under
social cohesion. As regards the con
Banfi stated that it is evident that a
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
a focus on equality with a common reference to the
As regards the core integration concept, this was adopted in 2008
a four year consultation that engaged the local authorities, migrant
organizations, free welfare organizations, refugee organizations and other groups of civil
society. The process resulted in a conceptualization of integration policy as a cross
in a commitment by all stakeholders including all municipal
to an intercultural policy aiming at the provision of equal access for everybody
more opportunities for active participation. The concept identifies five main areas
access has still not been achieved, namely intercultural mainstreaming,
political and social participation, education, vocational training and job market, language
learning of both mother language and German and fighting discrimination.
ther details on how these policies are financed. She explained that so
covering language and orientation courses for newly arrived
are mandatory and are paid by the federal state. On the city level,
the city authorities provide cannot be exactly estimated because
cross sectional task in every budget. Secondly, the city authorities develop
made projects in case of general needs, like for example the local employment
qualification programme which focuses on long term unemployment having
. A third possibility is to finance integration initiatives and programmes
through external sources. An example brought was the programme MunichCompetence
Federal office for Migration and Refugees and the European
which aims at providing all necessary skills, knowledge and
competences to imams in order to provide social work, advice and support t
begun her presentation on the
“Moving toward migrants’ integration into the
healthcare system Results from the project
Inequalities and Multiple Discrimination in Access to
and Quality of Healthcare” by giving a review on
definitions emerging from the most important EU
policy documents concerning migrant integration into
subsequently presented a
part of the results acquired from a research recently conducted by the FRA on inequalities
and multiple discrimination in access to and quality of the healthcare system titled
“Inequalities and multiple discrimination in access to and quality of healthcare project (2010
focusing on healthcare issues and perceptions of discrimination.
role given to the healthcare issues in the relevant migration and integration
policies adopted, the speaker made particular reference to the pilot study initiated by the
EU Council to create an evaluation mechanism based on common integration indicators in a
number of relevant policy areas noting that health has been considered an element under
social cohesion. As regards the conclusions from the policy objectives of the research, Dr.
stated that it is evident that a stronger focus has been given on socio
Pa
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9
with a common reference to the German
adopted in 2008 by the City
on that engaged the local authorities, migrant
organizations, free welfare organizations, refugee organizations and other groups of civil
integration policy as a cross-sectional
by all stakeholders including all municipal
to an intercultural policy aiming at the provision of equal access for everybody
The concept identifies five main areas
access has still not been achieved, namely intercultural mainstreaming,
political and social participation, education, vocational training and job market, language
learning of both mother language and German and fighting discrimination.
She explained that so
covering language and orientation courses for newly arrived
On the city level, the overall
the city authorities provide cannot be exactly estimated because “integration” is
Secondly, the city authorities develop
made projects in case of general needs, like for example the local employment and
having 28,7 Million
. A third possibility is to finance integration initiatives and programmes
MunichCompetence
Federal office for Migration and Refugees and the European
which aims at providing all necessary skills, knowledge and
competences to imams in order to provide social work, advice and support their community
part of the results acquired from a research recently conducted by the FRA on inequalities
and multiple discrimination in access to and quality of the healthcare system titled
f healthcare project (2010-
on healthcare issues and perceptions of discrimination.
role given to the healthcare issues in the relevant migration and integration
ference to the pilot study initiated by the
EU Council to create an evaluation mechanism based on common integration indicators in a
number of relevant policy areas noting that health has been considered an element under
clusions from the policy objectives of the research, Dr.
on socio-economic, rather
SHAPING AND
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AND REG
“FILOXENIA
C
Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
than political or cultural integration, while obvious
receive the status of a core component.
origin, disability, age and gender in access to healthcare and qualit
findings show, for instance,
similar to natives, while it deteriorates relative to that of native populations with age.
Furthermore, on behalf of the migrant population findings
diseases, a much lower uptake of preventive heath schemes and higher infant mortality
rates. In general, the research reveals multiple forms of direct discrimination (multiple
discrimination). As Dr. Banfi explained, multiple discrimination
treatment on the basis of one or more grounds
barriers in access to healthcare
access to justice, results have
discrimination cases, alleged victims often
as action against medical negligence.
Concluding her presentation
Council Directive on equal treatment aiming to extend protection from discrimination on
the grounds of age, disability, sexual orientation and religion or belief beyond the area of
employment including in the area of healthcare (so called Horizontal directive). She also
stressed the need to institutionalize multi
provide appropriate training for healthcare professionals, to adopt positive action
addressing groups at risk of multiple discrimination, to improve data collection, ac
justice and compensations.
Discussion:
� Dr. Massimiliano Vrenna from the National Association of Italian
Municipalities (ANCI) commented on Dr. Pirvulsecu’s
underlined his agreement that anti
are dangerously threatening to become part of the political mainstream in
some European countries and warned that radical parties are building a
strong network all over Europe. Recognizing that the local level
crucial role as regards the adoption and implementation of migrant
policies, he underlined the importance of citizenship as an issue of strategic importance.
Vrenna added that findings from a
the citizenship dimension are unvalued and disregarded by both the native population and
the emigrants and demonstrated that nowadays European citizenship is of strategic
importance and it should be put on the agenda of discussions within the framework
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
than political or cultural integration, while obviously in most of the cases healthcare didn’t
he status of a core component.
The speaker gave moreover some information on
methodology applied and explained
based on interviews from migrants, health
professionals, legal experts and other relevant policy
makers from five EU member states
was to gain a better understanding of particular
vulnerabilities resulting from the intersection of ethnic
origin, disability, age and gender in access to healthcare and quality of care. Part of the
that the health status of the migrant population at arrival is
similar to natives, while it deteriorates relative to that of native populations with age.
Furthermore, on behalf of the migrant population findings also show higher rates of specific
a much lower uptake of preventive heath schemes and higher infant mortality
rates. In general, the research reveals multiple forms of direct discrimination (multiple
discrimination). As Dr. Banfi explained, multiple discrimination, which grounds on
treatment on the basis of one or more grounds, is very much reflected for example in
barriers in access to healthcare in various ways outlined. As regards the crucial aspect of the
results have shown that due to the low compensation be
discrimination cases, alleged victims often prefer to initiate other forms of legal action such
as action against medical negligence.
presentation, Dr. Banfi expressed FRA’s support to the adoption of the
equal treatment aiming to extend protection from discrimination on
the grounds of age, disability, sexual orientation and religion or belief beyond the area of
employment including in the area of healthcare (so called Horizontal directive). She also
ed the need to institutionalize multi-dimensional equality in the healthcare system, to
provide appropriate training for healthcare professionals, to adopt positive action
addressing groups at risk of multiple discrimination, to improve data collection, ac
Dr. Massimiliano Vrenna from the National Association of Italian
commented on Dr. Pirvulsecu’s speech and
that anti-immigration discourse and attitudes
are dangerously threatening to become part of the political mainstream in
some European countries and warned that radical parties are building a
strong network all over Europe. Recognizing that the local level has a
crucial role as regards the adoption and implementation of migrant
policies, he underlined the importance of citizenship as an issue of strategic importance.
that findings from a study recently conducted reveal that identity issues a
the citizenship dimension are unvalued and disregarded by both the native population and
the emigrants and demonstrated that nowadays European citizenship is of strategic
importance and it should be put on the agenda of discussions within the framework Pa
ge3
0
in most of the cases healthcare didn’t
The speaker gave moreover some information on the
ed that the work is
migrants, health
professionals, legal experts and other relevant policy
states and its objective
to gain a better understanding of particular
vulnerabilities resulting from the intersection of ethnic
y of care. Part of the
that the health status of the migrant population at arrival is
similar to natives, while it deteriorates relative to that of native populations with age.
show higher rates of specific
a much lower uptake of preventive heath schemes and higher infant mortality
rates. In general, the research reveals multiple forms of direct discrimination (multiple
which grounds on unequal
is very much reflected for example in
. As regards the crucial aspect of the
shown that due to the low compensation being awarded in
initiate other forms of legal action such
, Dr. Banfi expressed FRA’s support to the adoption of the
equal treatment aiming to extend protection from discrimination on
the grounds of age, disability, sexual orientation and religion or belief beyond the area of
employment including in the area of healthcare (so called Horizontal directive). She also
dimensional equality in the healthcare system, to
provide appropriate training for healthcare professionals, to adopt positive action
addressing groups at risk of multiple discrimination, to improve data collection, access to
Dr. Massimiliano Vrenna from the National Association of Italian
and
immigration discourse and attitudes
are dangerously threatening to become part of the political mainstream in
some European countries and warned that radical parties are building a
has a
crucial role as regards the adoption and implementation of migrant
policies, he underlined the importance of citizenship as an issue of strategic importance. Dr.
reveal that identity issues and
the citizenship dimension are unvalued and disregarded by both the native population and
the emigrants and demonstrated that nowadays European citizenship is of strategic
importance and it should be put on the agenda of discussions within the framework of
SHAPING AND
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AND REG
“FILOXENIA
C
Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
instruments available such as the joint partnership in progress between the CoR and the EC
or the institution of the citizenship year devoted to 2013.
� Mr Paul Lappalainen expressed his doubt whether Europe’s population is really
appreciating the idea of a single European citizenship and explained that people are rather
more focused on an ethnic ideal they
citizens”, whereas the passport someone is holding does
Lappalainen said that if states are
focus on equal rights and opportunities. This means delivering the message that in this
society, the main goal is that everybody should have the right to strive to b
can be – without being hindered be irrelevant factors such as ethnicity, race or gender.
regards the previous reference
integration”, Mr Lappalainen explained that
the city’s entire population,
healthcare system is expected
recipient will be, this is how the
entire population living in that
with immigrant issues because unlike to the central state
disregard the existence of the immigrant population.
� Dr. Cristian Pirvulescu stated that it is particularly important to talk about democracy
and citizenship because those issues
issues related to migration. He expressed his satisfaction that the EC declared 2013 to be
the citizenship’s year, but noted that the fact that it will not
citizenships is already limiting the debate. He furthermore stated that in most European
countries migrant issue are raised to central
migrant issues are not on the politics agenda
such as the Roma debate in countries like Romania
He underlined in this respect that NGOs and the civil society have a crucial role to play
putting pressure on the EU level which sees as the most important governance level capable
of moving matters towards change and respect of human rights.
� Dr. Margret Spohn drew the attention to the fact th
far-right groups are tending to focus their anti
Muslim migrant population and agreed that citizenship is not
rather a feeling of belonging and
that this is the logic behind the naturalization ceremonies taking place in Munich.
� Mr Niall Crowley stated that the existing
able to deliver any significant social change.
the nature of democracy, he explained that without a high energy democracy good quality
of integration wouldn’t emerge as well. He furthermore stressed the n
bad practices and failures in order in some cases to really engage in fruitful discussions,
reach better outcomes and unblock barriers. On the issue raised by Ms Ana Feder of the
EUROCITIES over possible mechanisms to facilitate a bett
governance levels, Mr Crowley explained that the issue
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
instruments available such as the joint partnership in progress between the CoR and the EC
or the institution of the citizenship year devoted to 2013.
expressed his doubt whether Europe’s population is really
a single European citizenship and explained that people are rather
more focused on an ethnic ideal they carry around identifying people that look alike
citizens”, whereas the passport someone is holding doesn’t really matter in this respect
palainen said that if states are really concerned about integrating migrants, th
focus on equal rights and opportunities. This means delivering the message that in this
society, the main goal is that everybody should have the right to strive to b
without being hindered be irrelevant factors such as ethnicity, race or gender.
previous reference to the question “what moved the city of Dublin to the idea of
integration”, Mr Lappalainen explained that the mission of a city is supposed to be to serve
, that is everybody living in the city. He noted that,
expected to provide healthcare services irrespective of who the
recipient will be, this is how the cities’ mission is identified in the responsibility to serve the
entire population living in that city. He underlined in this respect that cities have to deal
with immigrant issues because unlike to the central state, it is much harder for
ard the existence of the immigrant population.
stated that it is particularly important to talk about democracy
and citizenship because those issues are directly related to migrant integration and other
He expressed his satisfaction that the EC declared 2013 to be
citizenship’s year, but noted that the fact that it will not be a year devoted to many
is already limiting the debate. He furthermore stated that in most European
ant issue are raised to central discussion topics in home affairs and
migrant issues are not on the politics agenda, other relevant issues are place
such as the Roma debate in countries like Romania, rather contributing to populism po
He underlined in this respect that NGOs and the civil society have a crucial role to play
putting pressure on the EU level which sees as the most important governance level capable
of moving matters towards change and respect of human rights.
drew the attention to the fact that for example in Germany
right groups are tending to focus their anti-immigrant campaigns exclusive
and agreed that citizenship is not solely a paper
rather a feeling of belonging and a feeling of being welcome in a society and she explained
that this is the logic behind the naturalization ceremonies taking place in Munich.
stated that the existing low-energy democracy’s
able to deliver any significant social change. Underlining the importance of the quality and
the nature of democracy, he explained that without a high energy democracy good quality
of integration wouldn’t emerge as well. He furthermore stressed the need to also exchange
bad practices and failures in order in some cases to really engage in fruitful discussions,
reach better outcomes and unblock barriers. On the issue raised by Ms Ana Feder of the
EUROCITIES over possible mechanisms to facilitate a better link between the various
governance levels, Mr Crowley explained that the issue was put by the EC on the agenda in
Pa
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1
instruments available such as the joint partnership in progress between the CoR and the EC
expressed his doubt whether Europe’s population is really
a single European citizenship and explained that people are rather
around identifying people that look alike as “co-
n’t really matter in this respect. Mr
concerned about integrating migrants, they need to
focus on equal rights and opportunities. This means delivering the message that in this
society, the main goal is that everybody should have the right to strive to be whatever they
without being hindered be irrelevant factors such as ethnicity, race or gender. As
the question “what moved the city of Dublin to the idea of
is supposed to be to serve
noted that, just as a
to provide healthcare services irrespective of who the
cities’ mission is identified in the responsibility to serve the
city. He underlined in this respect that cities have to deal
it is much harder for cities to
stated that it is particularly important to talk about democracy
directly related to migrant integration and other
He expressed his satisfaction that the EC declared 2013 to be
a year devoted to many
is already limiting the debate. He furthermore stated that in most European
topics in home affairs and, where
other relevant issues are placed to discussion
, rather contributing to populism policies.
He underlined in this respect that NGOs and the civil society have a crucial role to play
putting pressure on the EU level which sees as the most important governance level capable
for example in Germany some
immigrant campaigns exclusively against the
a paper document but
being welcome in a society and she explained
that this is the logic behind the naturalization ceremonies taking place in Munich.
’s dynamics are not
Underlining the importance of the quality and
the nature of democracy, he explained that without a high energy democracy good quality
eed to also exchange
bad practices and failures in order in some cases to really engage in fruitful discussions,
reach better outcomes and unblock barriers. On the issue raised by Ms Ana Feder of the
er link between the various
put by the EC on the agenda in
SHAPING AND
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AND REG
“FILOXENIA
C
Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
last year’s equality Summit in Poznan, but what now seems to be missing is a determination
to identify and follow any further steps and en
all levels and in all contexts. He stated that research findings show that this field hasn’t been
adequately debated and although it is not the only component, it is a key component.
Moreover, Mr Crowley emphas
because, as he explained, this factor is very important in defining the fundamental thinking
behind policies and behind the shaping process of policies and strategies. As regard the
religion, Mr Crowley stated that it is a major issue which yet hasn’t been made part of an
open discussion reminding him the debate over sexual orientation which only lately
incorporated in the discussions agenda.
� Ms Patricia Renoul, NCPI of France,
over 350.000 economic migrants entered the French territory in the 70s, with a 50% being
now over 65 years old. While this
migrant territories, Ms Renoul referred to
professionals of many specialties and engaged all levels of governance in order to debate
over this group. In relation to Dr.
discriminations in the healthcare system, Ms Renoul concentrated on the fact that this work
can assist this group in receiving their rights.
� Mr Milan Hrabovsky, NCPI
terminologies used to describe groups within the sp
other radical groups. He stated that sometimes the
be the appropriate one and explained that
Slovakia some groups are using Nazi symbols
be categorized as Nazi or
typology criteria used such as the ideological background,
agenda, challenging liberal democracy, use of violence, etc.
10. CLOSING SESSION
The conference chair Trimikliniotis
speakers, participants and organizers for their valuable contribution
and expressing his confidence that the meeting triggered a fruitful and
interesting debate. He expressed
laid some foundations for rethinking integration through participation
and active citizenship as a vehicle to enhancing belonging.
underlined that in order to better understand integration, we need to
overcome the current thinking in a strict dicho
“them” (the migrants) going beyond this artificial way of thinking and
taking in mind that people have multiple identities and belongings and
co-shape the society as a whole.
raised during the discussions that equality is in fact a key issue in integration and has to be
in the heard of relevant policies. He called upon
presented from various cities an
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
last year’s equality Summit in Poznan, but what now seems to be missing is a determination
to identify and follow any further steps and engage stakeholders in a relevant discussion at
all levels and in all contexts. He stated that research findings show that this field hasn’t been
adequately debated and although it is not the only component, it is a key component.
Moreover, Mr Crowley emphasized the importance of further examining the culture factor
because, as he explained, this factor is very important in defining the fundamental thinking
behind policies and behind the shaping process of policies and strategies. As regard the
rowley stated that it is a major issue which yet hasn’t been made part of an
open discussion reminding him the debate over sexual orientation which only lately
incorporated in the discussions agenda.
Ms Patricia Renoul, NCPI of France, referred to the aspect of health and explained that
over 350.000 economic migrants entered the French territory in the 70s, with a 50% being
While this constitutes a group of high vulnerability liv
, Ms Renoul referred to a recent effort that
specialties and engaged all levels of governance in order to debate
is group. In relation to Dr. Banfi’s presentation outlining indicators identifying
s in the healthcare system, Ms Renoul concentrated on the fact that this work
can assist this group in receiving their rights.
, NCPI of Slovakia, raised some typology concerns over
terminologies used to describe groups within the spectrum of the far-right extr
tated that sometimes the use of the term “Nazi parties” might not
one and explained that although for instance in
Slovakia some groups are using Nazi symbols these groups might not
categorized as Nazi or neo-Nazi parties due to some precise
typology criteria used such as the ideological background, the political
liberal democracy, use of violence, etc.
Trimikliniotis closed the discussions thanking the
speakers, participants and organizers for their valuable contribution
and expressing his confidence that the meeting triggered a fruitful and
expressed his confidence that the discussion
foundations for rethinking integration through participation
and active citizenship as a vehicle to enhancing belonging. He
underlined that in order to better understand integration, we need to
overcome the current thinking in a strict dichotomy of “us” and
“them” (the migrants) going beyond this artificial way of thinking and
taking in mind that people have multiple identities and belongings and
shape the society as a whole. Prof. Trimikliniotis also stressed the attention to what was
raised during the discussions that equality is in fact a key issue in integration and has to be
in the heard of relevant policies. He called upon stakeholders to draw on the practices
presented from various cities and underlined that cities can play a leading role in initiating Pa
ge3
2
last year’s equality Summit in Poznan, but what now seems to be missing is a determination
stakeholders in a relevant discussion at
all levels and in all contexts. He stated that research findings show that this field hasn’t been
adequately debated and although it is not the only component, it is a key component.
ized the importance of further examining the culture factor
because, as he explained, this factor is very important in defining the fundamental thinking
behind policies and behind the shaping process of policies and strategies. As regard the
rowley stated that it is a major issue which yet hasn’t been made part of an
open discussion reminding him the debate over sexual orientation which only lately was
referred to the aspect of health and explained that
over 350.000 economic migrants entered the French territory in the 70s, with a 50% being
constitutes a group of high vulnerability living isolated in
that brought together
specialties and engaged all levels of governance in order to debate
Banfi’s presentation outlining indicators identifying
s in the healthcare system, Ms Renoul concentrated on the fact that this work
typology concerns over the
right extremist and
term “Nazi parties” might not
also stressed the attention to what was
raised during the discussions that equality is in fact a key issue in integration and has to be
to draw on the practices
d underlined that cities can play a leading role in initiating
SHAPING AND
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AND REG
“FILOXENIA
C
Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
practices of promotion of participation, access, belonging, social solidarity, etc, adding in
this respect that important experience and knowledge can be drawn also from bad practices
and failed efforts throughout the years and in many places.
What was formulated as the democratic discourse in migration and the contribution of
migrants was put in the core of
regard to the fact often missed
the economic, social and cultural contribution of migrants which is not adequately
appreciated. He underlined the importance of learnings from cities, for instance on
on the experience and knowhow
demonstrated, contrary to popularly held beliefs,
have generated employment
chairman emphasised the important of bringing in and connecting to the integration
debates aspects of migration which are often left unattended to; he made particular
reference to issues affecting sections
who are not considered to be part of the integration debates
findings of the FRA, Dr. Trimikliniotis noted that healthcare should be considered as a vital
aspect of integration policies and stated that policies should draw and rely on relevant
research findings.
The Mayor of Nicosia Mr Constantinos Yiorkadjis
past few decades Nicosia underwent rapid population change due to a high presence of
immigrants with official census statistics revealing that the percentage of
nationals has risen from 9% to 15%, m
challenge particularly for Nicosia. He explained that integration is a major concern in a
number of EU Policies and one of the key priorities set by the Cyprus Presidency of the
Council of the EU and an increasi
states in maximizing the benefits of migration. As the Mayor explained, Nicosia benefited
from EU’s Structural and other funds making use in order to develop a range of social and
cultural infrastructure and services that promote social inclusion and the integration of
immigrants in the local community. He mentioned in this regard the Municipal Centre for
Social and Cultural Services, the Children’s Educational Centre and other social and cultural
centres in different neighborhoods of the city. Mr Yiorkadjis made special reference to the
latest programme which was co
of Cyprus which is offering the opportunity to Cypriot
partnership multi-level services to third
The Mayor stated his belief that the implementation of these projects highlight the
importance of the role of local
integration of migrants and that local authorities have the ability to act and play a crucial
role in social cohesion and development. He noted that since a wide range of services and
activities is administered at the local level, local governance deserves an advance
shaping policies and interacting between migrants and the receiving society. However, as he
explained, social policy is still not a recognized area of competence of the Cypriot
authorities and limited funding restricts the ability of the lo
and implement strategies in a concerted manner.
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
practices of promotion of participation, access, belonging, social solidarity, etc, adding in
this respect that important experience and knowledge can be drawn also from bad practices
d efforts throughout the years and in many places.
What was formulated as the democratic discourse in migration and the contribution of
put in the core of discussion in session II. Dr. Trimikliniotis
issed in public discourses over migrants and integration
the economic, social and cultural contribution of migrants which is not adequately
. He underlined the importance of learnings from cities, for instance on
and knowhow from Dublin, as well as from Copenhagen
, contrary to popularly held beliefs, ethnic economies and entrepreneurship
employment opportunities for migrants and non-migrants alike
the important of bringing in and connecting to the integration
spects of migration which are often left unattended to; he made particular
reference to issues affecting sections of the migrant population – such as
sidered to be part of the integration debates. Drawing on the research
findings of the FRA, Dr. Trimikliniotis noted that healthcare should be considered as a vital
aspect of integration policies and stated that policies should draw and rely on relevant
Mr Constantinos Yiorkadjis referred in his closing remarks that in the
past few decades Nicosia underwent rapid population change due to a high presence of
immigrants with official census statistics revealing that the percentage of
ationals has risen from 9% to 15%, making the phenomenon of migration an immense
challenge particularly for Nicosia. He explained that integration is a major concern in a
number of EU Policies and one of the key priorities set by the Cyprus Presidency of the
Council of the EU and an increasingly recognized policy objective for the EU and its member
states in maximizing the benefits of migration. As the Mayor explained, Nicosia benefited
from EU’s Structural and other funds making use in order to develop a range of social and
ucture and services that promote social inclusion and the integration of
immigrants in the local community. He mentioned in this regard the Municipal Centre for
Social and Cultural Services, the Children’s Educational Centre and other social and cultural
s in different neighborhoods of the city. Mr Yiorkadjis made special reference to the
latest programme which was co-funded by the European Integration Fund and the Republic
of Cyprus which is offering the opportunity to Cypriot local authorities to pr
level services to third-country migrants.
The Mayor stated his belief that the implementation of these projects highlight the
ocal authorities and their potential in the process of promoting
of migrants and that local authorities have the ability to act and play a crucial
role in social cohesion and development. He noted that since a wide range of services and
activities is administered at the local level, local governance deserves an advance
shaping policies and interacting between migrants and the receiving society. However, as he
explained, social policy is still not a recognized area of competence of the Cypriot
uthorities and limited funding restricts the ability of the local governance to set priorities
and implement strategies in a concerted manner. Pa
ge3
3
practices of promotion of participation, access, belonging, social solidarity, etc, adding in
this respect that important experience and knowledge can be drawn also from bad practices
What was formulated as the democratic discourse in migration and the contribution of
Dr. Trimikliniotis referred in this
in public discourses over migrants and integration, namely
the economic, social and cultural contribution of migrants which is not adequately
. He underlined the importance of learnings from cities, for instance on drawing
from Dublin, as well as from Copenhagen where it was
and entrepreneurship
migrants alike. The
the important of bringing in and connecting to the integration
spects of migration which are often left unattended to; he made particular
such as irregular migrants
. Drawing on the research
findings of the FRA, Dr. Trimikliniotis noted that healthcare should be considered as a vital
aspect of integration policies and stated that policies should draw and rely on relevant
referred in his closing remarks that in the
past few decades Nicosia underwent rapid population change due to a high presence of
immigrants with official census statistics revealing that the percentage of third county
aking the phenomenon of migration an immense
challenge particularly for Nicosia. He explained that integration is a major concern in a
number of EU Policies and one of the key priorities set by the Cyprus Presidency of the
ngly recognized policy objective for the EU and its member
states in maximizing the benefits of migration. As the Mayor explained, Nicosia benefited
from EU’s Structural and other funds making use in order to develop a range of social and
ucture and services that promote social inclusion and the integration of
immigrants in the local community. He mentioned in this regard the Municipal Centre for
Social and Cultural Services, the Children’s Educational Centre and other social and cultural
s in different neighborhoods of the city. Mr Yiorkadjis made special reference to the
funded by the European Integration Fund and the Republic
uthorities to provide in
The Mayor stated his belief that the implementation of these projects highlight the
uthorities and their potential in the process of promoting
of migrants and that local authorities have the ability to act and play a crucial
role in social cohesion and development. He noted that since a wide range of services and
activities is administered at the local level, local governance deserves an advanced role in
shaping policies and interacting between migrants and the receiving society. However, as he
explained, social policy is still not a recognized area of competence of the Cypriot local
cal governance to set priorities
SHAPING AND
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AND REG
“FILOXENIA
C
Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
Mr Yiorkadjis closed his remarks endorsing the significance attributed to the integration
policies by the European Union in the framework of delivering the goals of Europe 202
the European Agenda for the Integration of Third Country Nationals. He underlined th
leading role that the local and regional
integration policies and noted
support to local authorities, enabling them to carry out their essential role in the creation of
more cohesive communities and maximizing the benefits from the participation of all,
including migrants, in economic and social developm
presented a short video film on the activities illustrating the range and in
was done in this project and also the actual impact these services have on immigrants’ lives.
In his closing remarks on be
Kalogeropoulos congratulate
excellent conference which demonstrates the keen interest of the Cyprus Presidency on the
topic. After presenting some identity elements of the CoR’s mission and structure, he
underlined that migrant integration
it is a process that in fact takes place mainly at the local level where migrants and local
communities live and work. Mr Kalogeropoulos
only then be successful if they are adapted on the particu
explained that policies will be applicable and successful
active involvement of the local governments.
The Greek member of the CoR outlined furthermore the main
message of the recent opin
includes concrete proposals on how best the national
governments will contribute in achieving the goals of successful
integration policies. As a necessary component for achieving the
Europe 2020 Strategy objectives for ec
territorial cohesion, the opinion underlines in particular the
importance of the active participation of migrants in the
economic, social and political affairs in the host countries, cities
and regions. In more specific, the CoR consider
application of joined-up and multi
coherent manner focuses efforts on a wide range of policies, such as education,
employment, social policy, public health, economic, social and terri
Kalogeropoulos stated in this regard that a comprehensive approach should necessarily
engage all relevant stakeholders, including the social partners, representatives of the civil
society and the migrants themselves. He made a special r
as a flexible framework and a new and innovative tool which is intended to enable local
governments to effectively apply integration policies, strengthen democratic values and
promote cohesion and intercultural dialogue.
policy inventory of the CoR aiming at facilitating the integration of immigrants, Mr
Kalogeropoulos made a special reference to the proposed initiative to establish a Network
of Local and Regional Authorities for
of the strategic partnership of the CoR with the European Commission and the European
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
Mr Yiorkadjis closed his remarks endorsing the significance attributed to the integration
policies by the European Union in the framework of delivering the goals of Europe 202
the European Agenda for the Integration of Third Country Nationals. He underlined th
and regional authorities is assigned in the implementation of the
ed that this must be translated into concrete and effective
support to local authorities, enabling them to carry out their essential role in the creation of
more cohesive communities and maximizing the benefits from the participation of all,
including migrants, in economic and social development. Closing his remarks, Mr Yiorkadjis
presented a short video film on the activities illustrating the range and in
done in this project and also the actual impact these services have on immigrants’ lives.
In his closing remarks on behalf of the Committee of the Regions (CoR),
congratulated the organizers on behalf of the President of the CoR
excellent conference which demonstrates the keen interest of the Cyprus Presidency on the
topic. After presenting some identity elements of the CoR’s mission and structure, he
migrant integration is of key importance for the CoR and
is a process that in fact takes place mainly at the local level where migrants and local
communities live and work. Mr Kalogeropoulos underlined that the relevant policies can
only then be successful if they are adapted on the particular local or regional contexts
that policies will be applicable and successful only if they are shaped with the
active involvement of the local governments.
The Greek member of the CoR outlined furthermore the main
message of the recent opinion adopted by the Committee which
includes concrete proposals on how best the national
governments will contribute in achieving the goals of successful
integration policies. As a necessary component for achieving the
Europe 2020 Strategy objectives for economic, social and
territorial cohesion, the opinion underlines in particular the
importance of the active participation of migrants in the
economic, social and political affairs in the host countries, cities
and regions. In more specific, the CoR consider
up and multi-level governance approaches which in an integrated and
coherent manner focuses efforts on a wide range of policies, such as education,
employment, social policy, public health, economic, social and territorial cohesion. Mr
Kalogeropoulos stated in this regard that a comprehensive approach should necessarily
engage all relevant stakeholders, including the social partners, representatives of the civil
society and the migrants themselves. He made a special reference to the “territorial pacts”
as a flexible framework and a new and innovative tool which is intended to enable local
governments to effectively apply integration policies, strengthen democratic values and
promote cohesion and intercultural dialogue. In relation to the future prospects in the
policy inventory of the CoR aiming at facilitating the integration of immigrants, Mr
Kalogeropoulos made a special reference to the proposed initiative to establish a Network
of Local and Regional Authorities for integration which is considered to be a key component
of the strategic partnership of the CoR with the European Commission and the European
Pa
ge3
4
Mr Yiorkadjis closed his remarks endorsing the significance attributed to the integration
policies by the European Union in the framework of delivering the goals of Europe 2020 and
the European Agenda for the Integration of Third Country Nationals. He underlined the
the implementation of the
concrete and effective
support to local authorities, enabling them to carry out their essential role in the creation of
more cohesive communities and maximizing the benefits from the participation of all,
ent. Closing his remarks, Mr Yiorkadjis
presented a short video film on the activities illustrating the range and in-depth work that
done in this project and also the actual impact these services have on immigrants’ lives.
half of the Committee of the Regions (CoR), Mr Demetrios
on behalf of the President of the CoR for the
excellent conference which demonstrates the keen interest of the Cyprus Presidency on the
topic. After presenting some identity elements of the CoR’s mission and structure, he
is of key importance for the CoR and its members since
is a process that in fact takes place mainly at the local level where migrants and local
the relevant policies can
lar local or regional contexts and
they are shaped with the
The Greek member of the CoR outlined furthermore the main
ion adopted by the Committee which
includes concrete proposals on how best the national
governments will contribute in achieving the goals of successful
integration policies. As a necessary component for achieving the
onomic, social and
territorial cohesion, the opinion underlines in particular the
importance of the active participation of migrants in the
economic, social and political affairs in the host countries, cities
and regions. In more specific, the CoR considers appropriate the
level governance approaches which in an integrated and
coherent manner focuses efforts on a wide range of policies, such as education,
torial cohesion. Mr
Kalogeropoulos stated in this regard that a comprehensive approach should necessarily
engage all relevant stakeholders, including the social partners, representatives of the civil
eference to the “territorial pacts”
as a flexible framework and a new and innovative tool which is intended to enable local
governments to effectively apply integration policies, strengthen democratic values and
In relation to the future prospects in the
policy inventory of the CoR aiming at facilitating the integration of immigrants, Mr
Kalogeropoulos made a special reference to the proposed initiative to establish a Network
integration which is considered to be a key component
of the strategic partnership of the CoR with the European Commission and the European
SHAPING AND
THE ROLE OF LOCAL AND REG
“FILOXENIA
C
Co-funded by the
Integration Fund of the European Union
networks of cities and regions. He expressed his confidence that this initiative will
strengthen the multi-level dialogue and cooperation and will contribute to an opening of a
channel of direct communication between cities and regions on the one hand and national
and European level on the other. Additional to this, Mr Kalogeropoulos referred to the on
going project to map all relevant initiatives and programmes implemented at local and
regional level, which will be used in an effort to create a useful tool for continuous and
sustainable exchange of knowledge and best practices.
11. FINAL REMARKS
The organizers hope to have
integration as a genuine dynamic and multiple process from the perspective of enhancing
participation, access and belonging. Migrants and migrant descendants are co
and rural landscapes through their labour, livelihoods, economic, cultural, social and civic
expressions. These “acts of citizenship
rights and struggles are essential to understanding how common belonging is enhanced in
society. The conference contributors drew
countries of the EU, local and national institutio
by policy-makers and researchers to map out the
critically evaluated successes, weaknesses and failures so that policy
improved. A major challenge
enhance equal rights, opportunities and access to all irrespective of ethnic national origin,
class, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age and other markers of social exclusion,
discrimination and divisions.
It was widely acknowledged that, despite efforts, t
not properly recognized and appreciated while m
negative stereotypes and blamed for all sorts of social evils in society.
development of institutional safeguards over the last years countering racial hate speech
and racism in general, xenophobic media discourses, anti
ideologies of hatred and intolerance, systemic and institutiona
are generating and perpetuating a climate which is not conducive to a healthy integration
process. Local initiatives can play
problems by bringing out the full picture, cor
combating racism, xenophobia and intolerance.
The discussion drew on various paradigms of multi
implementation of integration policies
as regards integration and how to improve governance aspects to address problems of
insufficient strategic planning, under developed
local action plans for integration of migrants.
implementation of effective
establishing standards for integration in all the fields at the different levels of governance.
HAPING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATION POLICIES:
OLE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL AUTHORITIES AND COMMUNITIES
20 NOVEMBER 2012
ILOXENIA” CONFERENCE CENTRE, NICOSIA
CONFERENCE REPORT
funded by the European
Integration Fund of the European Union
networks of cities and regions. He expressed his confidence that this initiative will
alogue and cooperation and will contribute to an opening of a
channel of direct communication between cities and regions on the one hand and national
and European level on the other. Additional to this, Mr Kalogeropoulos referred to the on
map all relevant initiatives and programmes implemented at local and
regional level, which will be used in an effort to create a useful tool for continuous and
sustainable exchange of knowledge and best practices.
The organizers hope to have contributed to laying the foundations for
integration as a genuine dynamic and multiple process from the perspective of enhancing
participation, access and belonging. Migrants and migrant descendants are co
through their labour, livelihoods, economic, cultural, social and civic
acts of citizenship” seem crucial as civic participation and claims to
rights and struggles are essential to understanding how common belonging is enhanced in
The conference contributors drew on experiences and knowledge in different
countries of the EU, local and national institutions, formal and informal processes as located
makers and researchers to map out the complexity of current reality
successes, weaknesses and failures so that policy
major challenge for the development of an integration framework
equal rights, opportunities and access to all irrespective of ethnic national origin,
class, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age and other markers of social exclusion,
It was widely acknowledged that, despite efforts, the contribution of migrants in society is
and appreciated while migrants are often wrongly
negative stereotypes and blamed for all sorts of social evils in society.
development of institutional safeguards over the last years countering racial hate speech
and racism in general, xenophobic media discourses, anti-immigrant politicians, widespread
ideologies of hatred and intolerance, systemic and institutionalised practices and exclusions
are generating and perpetuating a climate which is not conducive to a healthy integration
process. Local initiatives can play in this respect an important role in addressing such
problems by bringing out the full picture, correcting the distortions and inaccuracies and
combating racism, xenophobia and intolerance.
w on various paradigms of multi-level governance in the design and
implementation of integration policies. It was discussed how best to enhance pol
how to improve governance aspects to address problems of
insufficient strategic planning, under developed or ineffective monitoring of the national or
local action plans for integration of migrants. Crucial in this regard is the development and
effective systems of monitoring, reviewing, assessing the impact and
establishing standards for integration in all the fields at the different levels of governance.
Pa
ge3
5
networks of cities and regions. He expressed his confidence that this initiative will
alogue and cooperation and will contribute to an opening of a
channel of direct communication between cities and regions on the one hand and national
and European level on the other. Additional to this, Mr Kalogeropoulos referred to the on-
map all relevant initiatives and programmes implemented at local and
regional level, which will be used in an effort to create a useful tool for continuous and
the foundations for a debate over
integration as a genuine dynamic and multiple process from the perspective of enhancing
participation, access and belonging. Migrants and migrant descendants are co-shaping city
through their labour, livelihoods, economic, cultural, social and civic
civic participation and claims to
rights and struggles are essential to understanding how common belonging is enhanced in
on experiences and knowledge in different
ns, formal and informal processes as located
current reality. They
successes, weaknesses and failures so that policy-making can be
an integration framework is how to
equal rights, opportunities and access to all irrespective of ethnic national origin,
class, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age and other markers of social exclusion,
he contribution of migrants in society is
often wrongly associated with
negative stereotypes and blamed for all sorts of social evils in society. Despite the
development of institutional safeguards over the last years countering racial hate speech
immigrant politicians, widespread
lised practices and exclusions
are generating and perpetuating a climate which is not conducive to a healthy integration
an important role in addressing such
recting the distortions and inaccuracies and
level governance in the design and
how best to enhance policy-making
how to improve governance aspects to address problems of
ineffective monitoring of the national or
in this regard is the development and
reviewing, assessing the impact and
establishing standards for integration in all the fields at the different levels of governance.