Nermin Oruč, CREDI Director of Research and Coordinator of the WB-MIGNET network, participated in the event University Talks with KAICIID on October 30, 2024. The event was held at the University of Belgrade, Faculty of Geography and brought together academics, policymakers, and practitioners to discuss pressing issues in migration management and intercultural dialogue in the Western Balkans. Nermin contributed to the session titled The Role of Local and Regional Authorities in Creating Inclusive Spaces for Refugees and Migrants in the Western Balkans.
The event, jointly organized by the International Dialogue Centre (KAICIID) and the Faculty of Geography, University of Belgrade was an opportunity to discuss demographic challenges in the Western Balkans, including urbanization and emigration, and explore the role of migrants in revitalizing local economies. Highlighting the potential of cities and local governments to create inclusive spaces for migrants, discussions focused on developing effective labour market inclusion policies, fostering a welcoming culture, and leveraging interreligious and intercultural dialogue. The program emphasized the transformative role of religious and secular institutions in shifting perceptions of migration from a challenge to an opportunity.