We are currently facing one of the worst global financial crises ever. Historically we have seen that in times of economic downturn - like the one we are facing now – priority was no longer given to policy areas like integration. That was a serious mistake. We need to make sure that we do not make the same mistakes again. Some voices will use the economic crises to argue for restricted immigration. That would be a serious mistake as well and would risk to result in increasing polarisation and segregation.
European Integration Forum - 2nd meeting - Catharina Bildt, Swedish Presidency
Today by holding this meeting, the second one, we confirm our promise to create a steady platform which will have continuity and will implicate properly and involve civil society organisations in the elaboration of EU integration policies.
European Integration Forum - 2nd meeting - Opening speech by Ms Irini Pari
OUTLINES OF THE SPEECH OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE EESC, Mr Mario Sepi
- The EESC confirms that it sees integration of immigrants and the Forum's initiative as essential, especially in a period of severe economic and social crisis, in which immigrants are often the first victims, if not treated as scapegoats.
European Integration Forum - 2nd meeting - Speech of Mario Sepi, President of the EESC
