Experts highlight important role of local governments in migrant integration at ODIHR meeting in Warsaw
An expert roundtable meeting on good practices in migrant integration at the local level in line with OSCE commitments and other international standards took place in Warsaw on 26 October 2017.
The event, organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), brought together more than 40 participants from 23 OSCE participating States, including representatives of national and local authorities, the academic community and civil society organizations active in the area of migrant integration.
“While migrant integration policies are often created at the central level, much of the work to implement them falls to local actors,” said Katarzyna Gardaphadze, ODIHR First Deputy Director. “This roundtable discussion presents an excellent opportunity for experts to exchange good practices and help build knowledge in this important area, which will remain a priority for many OSCE participating States in the coming years.”
“Making the relationship between central governments and the municipalities work is key to the effective reception and integration of refugees and migrants,” Tomáš Boček, Special Representative on Migration and Refugees of the Council of Europe Secretary General, said in his keynote address.
Participants exchanged knowledge and experience on the mechanisms for co-ordination between local and central government authorities on migrant integration policies and implementation. Other issues discussed included how to welcome migrants, civic orientation measures, equal access to services and the integration of children and youth.