Main issues to be addressed

Not all cities are equally open to international migrants. Cities that want to attract and retain international populations have to be 'open' cities that create a good 'offer' for international workers.

We want to look at a number of issues:

What is city openness and how do we define what makes OPENCities? We will consider a number of factors - economic, regulatory, cultural, amenity, connectivity, risks, leadership and internationalisation.

Why do some cities appear to be more attractive to international populations despite similar national frameworks and conditions?

What role does the social and economic integration of migrants play in city competitiveness and the attraction of further international human capital?

Can we develop clear guidance for city leaders on how to increase and promote the openness of cities to international populations?

Can we develop an OPENCities 'index of openness' to compare various European cities and to consider the potential for an internationally recognised openness 'standard' or 'kitemark' for cities?

Review

We will review and analyse the information from the OPENCities project to help develop Local Action Plans.

These action plans will link into city marketing and internationalisation strategies, including the attraction of skilled migrant workers and to develop pilot projects with European Structural Funds to mainstream best practice in supporting economic and social inclusion.