How does Migration shape our perception of Europe?

Lisbon, Portugal.

I have just returned from a conference held by the British Council in partnership with the European Union and local organisations throughout Europe. It had a specific focus on approaches in Portugal, the United Kingdom, Canada and North America.

There's an interview I did there on YouTube.

The main objectives were to share best practice, and issue recommendations for a grassroots approach to migration and community integration, and highlight the integral role community based organisations play in developing real sustainable solutions to the challenges of migration.

The three day conference had some interesting keynote speakers presentations, visits and case studies, ranging from the High Commissioners and Amabssadors of the various countries to NGOs and community development workers.

We had some lively discussions and useful recommendations were drawn up.

The United Kingdom's focus was on immigrant communities and the relationship to faith. Very interesting questions on multiple identities, integration, preventing violent extremism, fear, banning religious symbols and clothing (burkah etc) and racism were raised.

The conference provided a really useful networking opportunity and a platform in which people could share best practice and ways to work better in the future globally.

For me, the best bit was meeting such a range of people (including Portuguese Gujeratis, which was quite exciting!) and having interesting discussions - and of course the opportunity to look around Lisbon, too!