30/06/2026 14:30 - 15:30

HALL: Pola - A203

Contact: Albano T.

Chair: Djuric Milovanovic A.

Current demographic trends in the Western Balkans, marked by population decline, urbanisation and sustained emigration, place migration at the centre of debates on inequality, social cohesion and sustainable development. In line with SDG 10 and target 10.7, which call for well-managed migration policies, this panel explores how migration can move from being perceived as a challenge to becoming a driver of inclusion and shared prosperity. While unregulated migration flows may strain local systems, migrants can play a vital role in revitalising local economies when supported by appropriate policies and services, the "hardware" of migration governance. Local authorities are uniquely positioned to translate national and regional frameworks into concrete action, fostering access to labour markets, housing and social services that reduce inequalities for both newcomers and host communities. Yet policies alone are not sufficient. Successful inclusion also depends on the "software": the emotional, ethical and spiritual infrastructure that shapes attitudes, narratives and relationships. IN this regard, interreligious and intercultural dialogue is a powerful enabler of trust and mutual understanding, helping to bridge divides and address fears rooted in religious, ethnic and cultural differences. Faith communities, drawing on shared values of human dignity, hospitality and responsibility, can help transform polarisation into empathy and social cohesion. Building on two papers, Scriptural Reasoning on Migration by the Centre for Interreligious Dialogue in Rijeka and Migration in the Western Balkans: Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue for an Inclusive Region by the University of Belgrade, the panel calls for closer collaboration between religious leaders, policymakers and local authorities to align policies and values, hardware and software, in support of a more equal and resilient Western Balkans region