How can a city join the programme/network?

The city needs to make an official request by the Mayor or city council, then a review is carried out through the Intercultural cities index and a review mission takes place to meet key stakeholders from the municipality, other institutions and civil society to determine whether the interest and motivation exist and to discuss the objectives the challenges and priorities the city wishes to pursue through the programme.

Why there are no cities from some countries?

The focus on migrant inclusion makes it less evident for cities and countries where migrant proportions are still small (typically below 5% there is little awareness of the need to adopt a specific approach). However, we strongly encourage cities which expect a greater migrant flow in the future, of which are considering attracting migrants to offset negative demographic change, to apply.

How is the programme addressing radicalisation?

The intercultural approach helps build trust between members of the community through policies which encourage mixing, interaction and participation. Trust is also built between migrants and the authorities, including police, which helps identify and prevent individual radicalisation cases, but also reduce crime and urban unrest.

Intercultural policies are inclusion policies which help to increase life opportunities for migrants and their descendants, reducing anger and disillusionment which can nourish radicalisation. The intercultural city cultivates a culture of dialogue which helps build bridges, prevent conflicts and avoid violence.

How is the programme relevant in the field of Refugee inclusion?

Refugee inclusion is an important element of urban intercultural strategies. Intercultural cities has developed guidelines on refugee reception and on social and economic integration and will keep developing essential know-how and provide support to cities in this respect.