The Alliance views the successful integration of migrant populations as both an important goal in itself, and as a key objective in improving cross-cultural relations and inter-communal harmony globally.

The way in which migrant communities view themselves reflects the diversity, complexity, and constantly evolving nature of identity in the modern world. Perceptions and treatment of migrants by the countries they adopt as their homes determines in large measure the success of their integration and that of their children.

Well integrated migrant communities possess a unique insight into cultural differences and similarities across diverse populations. As such, they are uniquely qualified to help improve cross-cultural relations and understanding. Poorly integrated migrant communities can give way to feelings of alienation, resentment, and a tendency toward extremism, even in second- and third- generation migrant populations.

The UNAoC works in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) on the issue of Migration/Integration. The Memorandum of Understanding signed in April 2009 is complemented by an implementation plan that focuses on three areas of cooperation: 

(1)  establishing a Migration/Integration clearinghouse to display positive experiences of integration of migrants so as to counter polarizing and negative speech/stereotypes about migrants, and to trigger reflection on possible replication in other contexts and promote further involvement of all actors in integration efforts;
(2)  promoting networking platforms for the sharing of good practices on the integration of migrants at the local level; and
(3)  the provision of technical support to the UNAoC Member Countries to help develop national strategies on the migration and integration initiatives.

Download the Research Paper on Migration

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UNAoC / IOM Online Community on Migration and Integration

The Migration program of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) aims at improving integration and cohabitation between migrants and host societies, with the purpose of improving cooperation among peoples of different cultures and countering extremism. As the leading international organization for migration, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is committed to the principle that humane and orderly migration benefits both migrants and society.

The two organizations are working in partnership on the establishment of an Online Community on Migration and Integration. The website will profile positive experiences of integration of migrants around the world and highlight good practices implemented by a variety of stakeholders, with the aim of encouraging replication of these practices and further involvement of all.

We are in the process of collecting good practices and practical initiatives related to socio-economic, legal/political and cultural integration, implemented by a variety of stakeholders (national and local governments, international and regional organizations, civil society organizations, academic institutions, the private sector, and the media).

We invite Integration Practitioners to submit good practices in integration in order for them to be posted on the online community website. Click here for more information and for the submissions forms.

"Inter-Ethnic City: Management and Policies for a Better Integration of Migrants" held at UNHQ on September 28th, 2009

“The Inter-Ethnic City: Management and Policies for a Better Integration of Migrants”, a high-level roundtable, has taken place on 28 September in Conference Room 8 at United Nations Headquarters, from 9am to 1pm. 

Jointly organized by the Permanent Missions of Italy and Canada, Alliance of Civilizations and International Organization of Migration, the Roundtable will examined good practices and processes for better integration at the level of cities as experienced by local administrators, policymakers, civil society organizations and academics.  This event will showcased practical policies and facilitate networking of representatives of municipalities and other relevant institutions while providing visibility to the issue.

Download the programme for the Roundtable “The Inter-Ethnic City: Management and Policies for a Better Integration of Migrants”.

Click here to watch the webcast of this event.

Click here to read the full press release for the event (with contact information for media).

For additional information, contact Migration & Integration Officer Florence Laufer at Esta dirección de correo electrónico está protegida contra los robots de spam, necesitas tener Javascript activado para poder verla .