NAVIGATING TOMORROW

VBKI 2023 – Foreign Policy Lunch – Thema: IOM (Internationale Organisation für Migration) – Referent: Jean-Philippe Chauzy (Chief of Mission von IOM Germany)

Navigating tomorrow: Insights from the VBKI Foreign Policy Lunch on Global Migration’s Impact on Germany

Text: Kirsten Giering | Co-Chair of the International Politics and Economics Committee at VBKI

The VBKI Foreign Policy Lunch held on November 30th, 2023, offered a profound exploration into the realm of global migration and its pivotal role in shaping the future of Germany. Moderated by Mrs Kirsten Giering, co-chair of the VBKI International Politics and Economics Committee, the event featured Mr. Jean-Philippe Chauzy, Chief of Mission of the International Organization of Migration Germany, as the distinguished guest speaker, representing the UN-affiliated IOM. Mr Chauzy’s firsthand experiences from various posts across Europe and Africa provided a nuanced understanding of the motivations driving people to move. He shed light on the comprehensive efforts of the IOM, categorizing their work into four key areas: facilitating safe migration through human-centric approaches and leveraging technology, regulating migration by aiding countries in developing and implementing legislation, addressing the crucial link between migration and sustainable development, and dealing with forced migration. The discussions among the VBKI Foreign Policy Lunch participants highlighted the permanence of migration as a contemporary reality, with perpetual movement emerging as the new norm. Acknowledging its potential for development and economic growth, participants emphasized the need for Germany, particularly Berlin, to adeptly manage assimilation challenges to prevent the emergence of parallel social worlds.

Acknowledging its potential for development and economic growth, participants emphasized the
need for Germany, particularly Berlin, to adeptly manage assimilation challenges to prevent the emergence of parallel social worlds.

The VBKI Foreign Policy Lunch underscored the multifaceted nature of global migration and its transformative impact on Germany.

{

The discourse touched upon the economic benefits of migration, emphasizing the importance of addressing skilled labor shortages and attracting professionals. Participants stressed the significance of integration efforts, underscoring the value of mutual cultural understanding. Crosscultural education and communication campaigns were proposed as essential tools to facilitate this integration, fostering a harmonious coexistence and integration.

A notable initiative highlighted during the event was the VBKI’s non-profit program, „Einstieg zum Aufstieg“ („Entry to Advancement“), which aims to connect individuals with refugee experiences with companies in the greater Berlin area, assisting migrants in building new lives. In essence, the VBKI Foreign Policy Lunch underscored the multifaceted nature of global migration and its transformative impact on Germany. The event not only recognized the challenges posed by this phenomenon but also celebrated initiatives contributing to the integration and prosperity of migrants, emphasizing the collective responsibility to create a more inclusive and harmonious society.

Special thanks were extended to all those involved in making this enlightening VBKI Foreign Policy Lunch possible.

