Young Catholics have sent recommendations to European leaders in an effort to address the migration crisis affecting countries on the continent. Source: CNA.
This year’s written contribution by the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union (COMECE) Youth Net centres on solutions for “fostering integration of migrants in the European Union.”
The region has seen high levels of immigration in recent years, particularly from the Middle East and Africa.
The paper, published this month, is based on a small-scale survey conducted by COMECE delegates under the auspices of the EU Episcopal Conferences.
“Rooted in Europe’s Christian heritage and Catholic Social Teaching, this contribution seeks to reflect on the call to support just integration processes: to welcome, protect, and actively integrate migrants, whilst addressing key challenges and proposing a way forward for European leaders,” the paper states.
The paper addresses three main issues regarding migration in the EU: social integration of migrants as a “two-way process”, addressing the link between migration and crime rates, and the loss of national identity amid demographic crises.
Respondents of the COMECE survey emphasised the importance of the two-way process of integration, according to the paper, sharing that they believed that “while migrants should continue to respect local customs, language and laws, host societies should also provide opportunities for participation in economic, social and cultural life.”
Respondents also “stressed the need to balance preserving one’s cultural identity and embracing the values of the host state”.
In light of the responses, the paper urges “both sides to engage in cultural exchange”, with migrants learning the language and customs of the host country, and local communities participating in events that promote intercultural dialogue.
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Catholic youth urge European leaders to address migrant crisis with charity, understanding (By Madalaine Elhabbal, CNA)
