12 % of the Irish population are from immigrant backgrounds; however their participation in all levels of decision making is lacking
AkiDwA the migrant women’s network in Ireland emphasized at the conference the need to have immigrants involved in all levels of decision making. Speaking at the conference where they launched their research and campaign on Democratic Participation of Immigrants, Salome Mbugua the CEO of AkiDwA challenged the reluctance of different bodies. “Diversity is a good thing and Ireland must be proud, almost 200 languages are spoken in Ireland, the reflection of the people living in Ireland today must be reflected in all public severe, however this is lacking”, Ms Mbugua said. Comparing with other countries that have succeed by integrating immigrant through democratic participation, the research found that the participation of immigrants at the local level is one of the most important and effective measures as it leads to better understanding of shared values and respect for cultural differences, both of which are essential for democratic development.
The research also found many migrants are involved in religious and community organisations but have yet to see their involvement represented in the political realm. The integration policy developed by the EU encourages two-way cooperation between immigrants and their host country, recognizing that it is an initiative that requires resources, activism, and participation from the nationals and immigrants in efforts to develop successful integration.
In the last 12 years Africa Centre has been advocating the effective participation of the Africa Diaspora in Ireland. According to Mbemba Jabbi Africa Centre Co-ordinator (acting), immigrants are vital section of the Irish society and their participation in all aspect of that society is key to our success as a nation and this conference is a start to facilitate that process.
In September 2013 Forum Polonia and School for Leaders Association launched a campaign “Vote! You are at home” The campaign aims is to educate and encourage Poles to register and vote and stand in forthcoming local elections. Speaking at the Conference Barnaba Dorda from Forum Polonia affirmed the findings of the research: “Reports findings are extremely visible in the context of the biggest minority in Ireland. Since the enlargement of the European Union almost 10 years ago, Poles who moved to Ireland have settled down here with their families and became an integral part of the society. They also bought houses and progressed their careers here. Poles now want to take responsibility and play a vital role in developing local communities”, Mr Dorda said.
The research outcome indicate Ireland has a long way to go to reach successful and representative integration and even though there has been recently increased awareness as to the necessity of better integration, but the policies and attitudes in Ireland have not caught up with the growing need.
Emer Costello, member of the European Parliament for Dublin stressed the importance of political participation by all groups and immigrants in both the local and European elections
Among other speakers the conference was addressed and facilitated by Simon Woolley Founder and CEO of Operational Black Vote -UK
The conference was supported by Dublin City Council.