During the workshop, a range of migration-related dimensions were explored through lectures, panel discussions, and debates – from migration waves and integration policies to labor market challenges and the role of civil society in building inclusive communities. Croatia, which is increasingly transforming from a country of emigration to one of immigration, stands in the middle of this process, where migration has become a question of our shared future.
On the first day, Prof. Dr. Željko Holjevac, Dr. Norbert Eschborn, and Dr. Caroline Hornstein-Tomić emphasized the importance of understanding migration within the European context. In her opening lecture, Prof. Dr. Anne White (University College London) illustrated how Polish cities are responding to migration shifts, thereby opening up a broader European perspective. Subsequent panel discussions brought together national researchers to explore public perceptions of migration, the integration of foreign workers, and the role of returnees and highly skilled migration in social development. The day concluded with a joint discussion between Prof. Dr. Anne White, Prof. Dr. Ulf Brunnbauer (University of Regensburg), and Dr. Caroline Hornstein-Tomić (Ivo Pilar Institute of Social Sciences) on the current situation in Croatia and lessons learned from other countries.
The second day focused on dialogue between institutions, employers, trade unions, and civil society regarding the employment of foreign workers, integration strategies, and encouraging the return of Croatian citizens from abroad. An inspiring lecture by Dr. Niklas Harder (DeZIM Institute, Berlin) on Germany’s integration experiences raised key questions about what makes an integration model successful and how it could be adapted to the Croatian context. Two subsequent panel discussions explored aligning migration policies with demographic and economic needs, as well as the importance of cooperation among all stakeholders.
On the third day, dedicated to the NECE Lab (Networking European Citizenship Education), the focus was on the role of civil society and civic education in migrant integration. Participants exchanged experiences in group sessions, presented local initiatives, and connected practical solutions with national and European policy approaches.
The workshop demonstrated that successful integration requires trust, collaboration, and coordinated efforts among institutions, employers, and local communities. At the same time, despite its challenges, the migration shift presents numerous opportunities for social and economic development.
