A unique global online community on migration and integration has been launched at the UN Alliance of Civilizations Forum in Rio de Janeiro, on May 27th 2010. Developed jointly with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), this website (www.unaoc.org/communities/migrationintegration) will convene a worldwide community of policy makers, practitioners and civil society activists who work together to improve relations among migrants and host communities.
This online community features ideas and innovative projects from around the world, highlighting successful models and inspiring new initiatives. It also illustrates the positive impact of migration and the benefits it can bring to host societies, as migrants contribute to the economic, cultural and social life of their new country.
The migration and integration website includes a global interactive map, links to resources on migration policies and relevant events, a gallery of socially engaged artists and a forum allowing migrants and professionals who offer answers to complex integration issues.
From fighting racism with humor in France to welcoming Sudanese refugees in Australia, from using graphic design as an integration tool for migrant women in Germany to enhancing the role of religious leaders in mediation, from promoting the right to health in South Africa to enhancing bilingual education in Phoenix, Arizona, the online community connects a wide range of partners to help migrants adapt to their new home and host communities to integrate newcomers in an increasingly diverse environment.
Log on to the online community.
For media requests, please contact Ms Florence Laufer ( laufer@un.org; +1.917.655.4723)