On 13 and 14 February 2018, in Osmangazi-Bursa, Turkey, the Council of Europe´s Intercultural cities programme conducted an expert visit to assess where the city stands in relation to intercultural integration, where effort should be focused in the future and which other cities could be a source of good practice in these particular areas. The visit was made in the context of Intercultural Cities Index, where participating cities undergo expert and peer reviews of their policies, governance and practice.

A representative of the Council of Europe and two independent experts met, among others, with the Mayor of Osmangazi, the Head of Municipal Police, the Head of the Provincial Directorate of Immigration, the local employment agency and an institution for vocational training. Exchanges also took place with representatives of local associations and media.

The Mayor highlighted the diverse make-up of Bursa and the potential of the Intercultural cities’ approach, embracing different nations, religions, languages and cultures. He stated that the arrival of Syrian refugees represents a specific challenge in relation to inclusion policy. This work will be supported by Intercultural city experts and examples from successful initiatives in other cities.

The visit will result in a report that will draw the “intercultural profile” of the city.