With its many different population groups and societies modern Europe has always been a plural entity. In addition, the cultural diversity resulting from migration has been the focus of much debate in recent years, and at times considerable anxiety. The concerns raised would also appear to relate to the sweeping changes that have affected employment and the role of the state in Europe . At the same time, the difficulties migrants and persons with a migration background face in terms of access to rights and social mobility are undermining the operation of society as a whole. There is therefore a need for innovation in both �integration� policies and, more generally, social and economic policies.
The 2006 Forum was attended by some 400 people from 41 different countries.
Among the most important conclusions, mention may be made of :
The role of cultural diversity. Changing the way we look
at the problem: cultural differences must have their rightful place in the
inclusion process, but they must not be exacerbated. Coherence and
adaptability must first be sought in the tools and structures of integration,
in particular our system for recognition of rights, access to services and
labour market inclusion.
A gradual process of access to rights.
Gradual recognition of rights must proceed via assured, negotiated paths.
Migration�s place in labour market change. It
is important to review the scale of the problem of migration in relation to
the situation of other, indigenous groups in a flexible and uncertain labour
market, especially young people and unskilled workers.
�Special� services or universal services that are �diversity-sensitive�?
While taking due account of diversity issues, care should be taken
not to �specialise� services (offices for migrants). Services should be
universal and diversity-sensitive.
The conclusions the Forum drew might help governments in orientating their
future action, by :
developing a political dialogue on the issue of working conditions
and underground economies;
developing a political dialogue on the issue of citizenship;
recognising/legalising care work within the family, mainly carried
out by migrant women under irregular conditions;
avoiding the concentration of poor families and individuals and migrants in
disadvantaged neighbourhoods;
introducing an intercultural and diversity-sensitive approach in
public services.
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