Sylt Mayor: Building a Culture Around Supporting Refugees

The Challenges of Integrating Refugees

Integrating refugees into a new community can be a challenge. They often come from war-torn countries and have experienced trauma. They may not speak the local language or have the necessary skills to get a job. They may also face discrimination and prejudice.

Sylt's Approach to Refugee Integration

Sylt, a small island in the North Sea, has taken a proactive approach to integrating refugees. The mayor, Nikolas Häckel, has made it a priority to create a welcoming and supportive environment for refugees.

One of the key elements of Sylt's approach is the focus on building a culture around supporting refugees. This means that everyone in the community, from the mayor to the local businesses, is involved in helping refugees integrate.

The Benefits of a Culture of Support

A culture of support has many benefits for refugees. It helps them to feel welcome and accepted. It also gives them the confidence to learn new skills and contribute to their new community.

In addition, a culture of support can help to reduce discrimination and prejudice. When everyone is working together to support refugees, it sends a strong message that refugees are welcome in the community.

How to Create a Culture of Support

There are many ways to create a culture of support for refugees. Here are a few examples:

• Welcome refugees to the community.
• Provide them with the resources they need to integrate.
• Create opportunities for them to interact with the local community.
• Challenge discrimination and prejudice.

Conclusion

Building a culture of support for refugees is a challenge, but it is one that is worth taking. When refugees are welcomed and supported, they can thrive and contribute to their new communities.