Brussels: Europe and the Arabs
Ms. Ylva Johansson, Commissioner for Home Affairs, and Mr. Olivier Röpke, President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), opened on Monday the work of the 8th European Migration Forum (EMF), which will be held in Brussels on 4 and 5. December. Commissioner Johansson gave an opening speech, which was followed by a question and answer session with the participants
Olivier Röpke, President of the European Economic and Social Committee, said that civil society is the key to the successful integration of migrants and refugees, and making their voices heard for change and a better life. He considered that today’s forum is essential for discussing specific needs, skills and communication for stronger integration and an excellent platform for moving forward together. He said that accelerating efforts for a sustainable and humane asylum and migration system is crucial. He praised the work of the European Commission on EU migration policy, highlighting the vital role of civil society. Adding, “Thank you for the exchange, Commissioner Ylva Johansson, and I hope that cooperation will continue in the future,” according to what Röpke wrote in a post on the X website, “formerly Twitter.”
This event brings together representatives of European Union institutions, civil society, regional and local authorities and international organizations working actively to integrate migrants into their host societies. The Expert Group members will also attend the Expert Group session on Migrants' Perspectives on Migration, Asylum and Integration. The workshops will focus on migration management, human trafficking, mental health and vulnerable groups. Participants will also focus on combating misinformation, as well as sustainable integration in the labor market. The Outreach Village will host 17 EU-funded projects in the field of migration.
The forum is an opportunity for civil society to express its opinions and exchange ideas and good practices, as well as to discuss challenges and priorities with decision-makers at the national and European levels. It is jointly organized and administered by the European Commission and the European Economic and Social Committee.