C H A L L E N G E S A N D O B S TA C L E S
CHALLENGES AND OBSTACLES The ensuing discussion addresses the challenges and obstacles related to the implementation of measures presented in the previous section aiming at fostering local inclusive citizenship. Among these are:
Capacities, competences and jurisdictions
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To speak of citizenship is ultimately to speak of an issue that has traditionally been reserved for the national sphere. It is a sensitive and political issue, and so local and national authorities might not always have a common objective. The ability of local governments to act is hence constrained by the national legal framework, and municipalities might find themselves carrying out activities out of the legal boundaries.
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There is often a lack of resources, competences and capacities at the local level, and cities often struggle with social cohesion and integration policies, particularly when these are limited.
Political tempos •
The interplay between local and national politics and media, as well as electoral pressure, might create tensions over local decisions and push for short-term gains, in detriment of longer-term strategies, of which inclusion is one.
Data and coordination •
Municipalities need data on migration at the local level, as the lack of information and awareness among public administrations can negatively affect the efficiency in providing access to services. Mapping exercises are helpful in understanding the territory, its assets and shortcomings, and it is an essential condition for making inclusive citizenship and hospitality effective.
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Data estimates on migrants in an irregular situation are hard to produce, due to the very condition of irregularity.
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Coordination between municipalities and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) is one of the main challenges. It is crucial to have a comprehensive mapping to identify the actors of the CSOs as well as their objectives, areas of scope, and eventually their (political) agendas. Afterwards, municipalities can lead the coordination process.
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Trust building between the institutions, with the CSOs and with the inhabitants, migrants included, is a necessary step to ensure effective coordination mechanisms, and it requires long-term efforts.
