The Network for Dialogue published three policy briefs based on the discussions of the 2nd European Policy Dialogue Forum on Refugees and Migrants held online on 3-4 November 2020, organized by the International Dialogue Centre (KAICIID) and the Network for Dialogue, and supported by the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the European Commission Representation in Germany. The three policy briefs discuss how intercultural and interreligious dialogue are means to further social inclusion of refugees and migrants in Europe in the areas of inclusive education, trustbuilding and changing the, often negative, narrative on migration. To download Policy Briefs click here:
Policy Brief #1: Supporting teachers in the use of interreligious and intercultural dialogue and inclusive education for refugees and migrants
Among specific recommendations in Policy Brief #1 are the creation of fast-track qualification programmes for teachers from refugee/migrant backgrounds, the mainstreaming of intercultural and interreligious dialogue education within the curriculum, and providing teachers with the necessary interreligious and intercultural dialogical skills to work with diverse cultural and religious groups.
Policy Brief #2: Building trust through dialogue in local communities: a key component for the social cohesion of refugees and migrants in Europe
Policy Brief #2 suggests that the lack of social cohesion linked to migration often stems from mistrust. This is rooted in a limited and distorted understanding of ‘’the Other’’, as well as a lack of appreciation or knowledge of the experiences of refugees and migrants on the part of public authorities. Limited interactions with people of different backgrounds and the underrepresentation of refugee and migrant communities in policymaking also contribute to a rise in mistrust. To foster mutual trust, local communities should be helped to recognise the positive contributions that refugees and migrants make to the host country.
Policy Brief #3: Reshaping narratives on migration through intercultural and interreligious dialogue
Europe’s “migration debate” can be acrimonious, and Policy Brief #3 claims that public discourse surrounding refugees and migrants is often shaped by political populism. Despite admirable efforts to address this, a negative narrative persists, leading to the marginalisation of already vulnerable refugee and migrant groups. Policymakers, religious and civil society networks, advocacy organizations, academics, and refugee and migrant groups must come together to address this.
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