No. 25 International Dialogue on Migration: Conference on Migrants and cities

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) convened the Conference on Migrants and Cities on 26 and 27 October 2015 in Geneva, within the framework of its main migration policy forum, the International Dialogue on Migration. This event was an occasion for city mayors and local authority representatives from around the world to discuss migration-related opportunities and challenges with high-level government officials, as well as representatives of civil society organizations, international organizations and the private sector – more than 600 participants in all. The common theme was that migration is a growing – and often a determining – factor in local planning, since most migration (whether internal or international) is to cities. This report offers an analysis of the issues raised at the conference and provides details of selected contributions. The first chapter provides an overview of the issues, with subsequent chapters providing additional details and coverage of the conference proceedings. The report concludes with recommendations. The background paper, final agenda and the summary of conclusions of the conference are also included.