The way migration is communicated in the media shapes public attitudes, policies, and the social integration process. Understanding the dynamics of communication in migration is critical to design effective interventions, inform policy decisions, and contribute to the creation of communication practices that support the integration, well-being, and agency of migrant populations. This is especially important for the experience of children and young migrants, which has not received adequate attention in this area.
In her presentation, Stephanie Acker will explore the intersection between research on effective migration communication and research to enhance the protection of child migrants. She will look at the intersection of the increased value of children’s participation in programming and research, analysing the coherence between policy language, programme and research approaches, and communication about child migrants. Drawing on established findings in migration communication, her talk will highlight strategies that have proven effective in shaping public opinion and policy and aim to apply those findings to communication about child migrants.
Through IOM’s experience in coordinating disembarkations in the Mediterranean and in assisting unaccompanied minors and young women, Flavio di Giacomo will offer an overview of the current migration emergencies (and non-emergencies) and discuss the need for a different approach to talking about migration. This alternative line of communication, Flavio will argue, should focus on influencing long-term policies that are not directed primarily towards a vision of ‘closed borders’; rather, emphasis should be placed towards the adoption of a more ‘open’ approach to migration, which is crucial for both humanitarian and demographic reasons. He will also share IOM’s experience with migration communication in Africa and the work the agency is involved in in partnership with African media.