The Organization for Economic Development (OECD) has now published a report titled "Working together for local integration of migrants and refugees" which provides concrete examples of how different-sized cities have shaped migrant and refugee integration policies at the local level. The report also provides a checklist for public action to improve migrant integration. A central message of the report: Diversity management constitutes a key aspect for successful labour market integration at the local level.
"When it comes to migrant integration, the local level matters. Where migrants go and how they integrate into their new communities depends on the specific characteristics of cities and regions" according to the OECD. Local authorities play an important and vital role. Drawing on a survey of 72 cities, amongst them one small city in Germany (Altena), the report presents a 12-point checklist that can be used to promote more effective integration of migrants.
Apart from creating spaces in order to bring "migrants and native-born communities closer", diversity management is stressed as a key factor for a successful integration of migrant newcomers. Diversity management is particularly important in the field of "key civil services that receive migrants and newcomers", the OECD states, as well as on/ the labour market.
Successfully matching "migrant skills with economic and job opportunities" and supporting "the active participation of migrants and refugees in local economies", according to the OECD, "can create collective experiences that defeat stereotypes."
The report can be downloaded here.
