Immigration is one of the most controversial political questions of the day. While some argue for the economic and social benefits of immigration, many people are concerned that it poses a threat to their way of life. Policy-makers need to respond to these concerns because no matter whether they are real or perceived, the unease is very real and presents a barrier to social cohesion.
This report reviews what community organisations in Birmingham, London, Madrid and New York are doing to alleviate tensions and build bridges between people from different backgrounds. But community organisations can only do so much – there is also a role for government to supplement these efforts. Government should ‘community proof’ all areas of its activity by assessing the likely impact of new policies on existing social networks.
In addition a national mentoring scheme should be established for those enrolled in English language classes. These and other recommendations will help British citizens and new migrants to build bridges between each other, ensuring that community cohesion remains strong in the face of rapid social and economic change. Immigration is one of the most controversial political questions of the day. While some argue for the economic and social benefits of immigration, many people are concerned that it poses a threat to their way of life. Policy-makers need to respond to these concerns because no matter whether they are real or perceived, the unease is very real and presents a barrier to social cohesion.
This report reviews what community organisations in Birmingham, London, Madrid and New York are doing to alleviate tensions and build bridges between people from different backgrounds. But community organisations can only do so much – there is also a role for government to supplement these efforts. Government should ‘community proof’ all areas of its activity by assessing the likely impact of new policies on existing social networks.
In addition a national mentoring scheme should be established for those enrolled in English language classes. These and other recommendations will help British citizens and new migrants to build bridges between each other, ensuring that community cohesion remains strong in the face of rapid social and economic change.
