DISC INITIATIVEThe Joint Global Initiative on Diversity,

Inclusion and Social Cohesion

The Power of Digitalization in the Age of Physical Distancing:

Strengthening social connections and community cohesion through

the digital inclusion and connectivity of migrants

DISC Digest 4th Edition

Table of Contents

Please click this l ink to make sure you have the latest version of this DISC Digest.

▪ Introduction 1

▪ Staff Voice: Insights and Experiences of IOM experts and

practitioners

2

▪ Featured IOM Initiatives 5

o Social Mixing : Leveraging Digitalization to Strengthen Social

Relations and Cohesion between Migrants and Communities6

o Hate Speech and Misinformation: Addressing Xenophobia

and Misinformation through Community-driven Online Campaigns8

o Migrant Inclusion: Digital Solutions for Migrants' Equitable and

Continued Access to Services and Capacity Building10

▪ Migrants Voice: Shedding light on migrants’ issues,

resilience and concerns

12

▪ Featured Resources on Digitalization 15

▪ DISC Resources and About the DISC Initiative 19

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Cover Photo © Rawpixel

https://iomint-my.sharepohttps/iomint-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/personal/acedelacruz_iom_int/EYYGCIIc_iVHul8VaCpAh5IBXmjTszdI6-Jz5y5P6-xEBQ?e=ItElXUhttps://www.iom.int/sites/default/files/documents/no_social_exclusion_in_social_distancing_-_disc_digest_edition_on_covid-19.pdf

Page 1

The COVID-19 pandemic hasunderscored the importance of social

connections for the wellbeing of migrantsand the overall cohesion of the

communities they live in.

Migrants have been a key part of countries’pandemic response, as both a population atrisk and as frontline workers or volunteers. In theface of lockdowns and physical distancingmeasures, governments and organizations acrossthe world have turned towards innovative digitalsolutions to address the social isolation,loneliness and anxiety that pandemic-relatedrestrictions and measures can bring. Despitemeasures that limit mobility and physicalinteractions, the pandemic has stimulated digitalinnovation on a global scale, connecting millionsof migrants with their families and communitiesaround the world.

However, the pandemic has also brought to thefore the increased risk of excluding alreadymarginalized groups. While digital innovation hasenabled access to services for those who werepreviously hard to reach, the benefits of digitalinnovation are not equally distributed. Migrantswho lack access to online connectivity, digitaldevices and skills havebeen further isolated.

Policies and interventions that do not takeadequate measures to address 'digital poverty'run the risk of worsening social isolation and

broaden disparities within society. At the sametime, physical distancing measures and the lackof moderating influence of face-to-face peerdiscussions have exposed a growing populationto an echo chamber of targeted onlinecampaigns of disinformation, hostility and outright hate speech against marginalized groups.

Migrants have been disproportionately impactedby both developments.

Recognizing these immediate challenges,

the International Organization forMigration (IOM) has developed and

adapted its interventions in the field to

harness the opportunities but alsoaddress the risks digitalization can bring

to migrant inclusion and social cohesion.

In the framework of the Joint Global Initiative onDiversity, Inclusion and Social Cohesion (DISC),this fourth edition of the global DISC Digesthighlights the various initiatives that both IOMand other organizations have taken, to provideresources and guidance for those looking totransition their activities online in the areas ofmigrant training, integration and socialcohesion. It also presents some knowledgeproducts and reports, and online campaigns thatare particularly geared towards combatting hatespeech towards migrants and misinformation onCOVID-19.

COVID-19 Faces of Migration © IOM Georgia, 2020.

Introduction

https://iomint.sharepoint.com/sites/DISCCollaborationSpace

Staff Voice

Insights and Experiences of IOM experts and practitioners,

While the COVID-19 pandemic has promptedwidespread expressions of solidarity and support fromgovernments, civil society and individuals, it has alsoexacerbated misinformation, anxieties and fearsagainst migrants, in the streets and especiallythroughout the internet.

Incidents of xenophobia and hate speech oftenhappen against the backdrop of broader systemicinequalities and build upon, if not compound,longstanding misinformation about migrants. Forinstance, the global ‘Black Lives Matter’ protests arerooted in the deep seated and unresolved issues ofsocial justice and racism the pandemic has exposed.Such acts of discrimination as well as the deliberatecirculation of hate content online do not only harmthose who targeted but also threaten social cohesion.

The UN Secretary General and the IOM DirectorGeneral have both appealed for an all-out effort tocounter xenophobia, hate speech and misinformationglobally. The recently released UN Guidance Note callsfor a multi-stakeholder response and thedevelopment of effective operational tools to counterand address harms related to hate speech. Thisincludes not only the involvement of Member Statesand international organizations but also theinvolvement of tech and social media companies,mainstream media, civil society , as well as affected

communities. As the proliferation of fake news oftencirculates in news outlets and social media platforms,there is urgent need for equally innovative digital andcommunity-driven solutions to address this challenge.

In response, the IOM DISC Initiative and the Mediaand Communications Team of RO San Jose aredeveloping two key complementary tools: 1)#XenophobiaZero, an online community whereinterested individuals and institutions can accesscounter narratives and facts to discriminatorymessages 2) an experimental and research-orienteddesign of counter speech strategies with a strongcommunity mobilization and M&E component. Bothtools integrate public communications and researchby mobilizing members of the community in leadingthe counter xenophobia response, while positioningIOM as a key actor in this area.

Stay tuned for the upcoming launch of the#XenophobiaZero online community!

Jobst KoehlerSenior Migrant Integration & Training SpecialistIOM LHD HQ / DISC Initiative

Jorge Gallo Regional Media and Communications OfficerIOM RO San Jose / XenophobiaZero

From fighting xenophobia to digitally supporting the mental health and well-being of migrants, IOM’swork is driven by the on the ground experience and knowledgeof our experts and field staff globally.

This section features some key insights from IOM staff to highlight the impact of digital innovation incurrent projects, and their missions’ response to ensure digital inclusion and connectivity of migrants.

On combating xenophobia and misinformation

through digital community mobilization

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https://www.un.org/press/en/2020/sgsm20076.doc.htmhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=teGCbHvZ7pYhttps://www.un.org/en/genocideprevention/documents/Guidance on COVID-19 related Hate Speech.pdfhttps://xenofobiacero.org/mailto:jkoehler@iom.intmailto:jgallo@iom.int

Digital access to timely, unbiased and reliableinformation allows migrants to make an informeddecision and take ownership of their migrationjourney in full respect of their human rights andregardless of their status.

IOM Germany’s Virtual Counselling (VC) project hasdigitally supported the traditional counsellingstructure in Germany during the COVID-19pandemic. Due to ongoing pandemic relatedmobility and contact restrictions, face-to-facecounselling can take place only in a limited capacityor at times, not at all . In these uncertain times, VChas proven to be a crucial tool for providing digitalsupport by connecting migrants with counselling andother resources across all stages of the migrationcontinuum.

In addition, digital counselling can enhance migrants’mental health and well-being by addressing anxietiesthat may be caused by the pandemic. VC also

provides migrants with crucial information onCOVID-19 in their countries of origin, respectivequarantine measures and adapted reintegrationmodalities. In doing do, VC is also able to digitallysupport public health initiatives by counteringmisinformation on COVID-19.

The online format of VC allows the project to serveas an accessible tool of communication,strengthening the link between pre-departurecounselling, the return process, and reintegration .Despite physical distancing measures, digitalinnovation has enabled IOM to digitally provideaccurate information and support across all stages ofthe migration continuum, tailored to the uniqueneeds of each migrant.

Welella NegussieProject Coordinator for Virtual CounsellingIOM Germany

In Indonesia, coordinated prevention measures arebeing put in place nationally as the outbreak of thepandemic happened in the beginning of the schoolyear. To this end, IOM Indonesia supports andimplements the government’s Ministerial Regulationon the Implementation of Education in CoronavirusDisease Emergencies on online learning andincreasing students' understanding of thecoronavirus. This includes providing internetallowance for the students to support theimplementation of learning from home andcoordination with the local education department toensure that refugees and asylum seekers childrenhave adequate quota to enroll in schools.

A total of 650 children and 250 adults have activelyparticipated in the online programme through theEdmodo platform, studying Bahasa Indonesian,English, vocational classes and other school subjects.

The opportunity to study in school not only provides

children to learn and communicate in the Indonesianlanguage, but also to learn from and play with theirschoolmates. Some children also admit that being inschool brings more confidence in them inparticipating in school events or activities, whichmakes them feel accepted regardless of their status.

Acknowledging that distance learning has become achallenge for the mental well-being of students dueto a lack of social interaction, limited access totechnology and other academic load issues, one ofIOM Indonesia's offices in Makassar has conductedonline trainings for public school teachers to addressthese challenges.

Diah ZaharaNational ProgrammeOfficer, Migrant Assistance and ProtectionIOM Indonesia

Importance of continued distance learning of migrant

children and training of public school teachers

Staff Voice

Virtual counseling for migrants’ informed decision-

making and ownership of their migration journey

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https://www.returningfromgermany.de/en/page/?slug=v-counsellingmailto:wnegussie@iom.inthttps://iomint-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/acedelacruz_iom_int/EfE_0js-xsBItVLa8xyi2ngBA1oW8u9IigL4k-VBN_nShg?e=7Qk6n1mailto:dzahara@iom.int

The iDiaspora is digital venue designed to empowerdiaspora engagement. Since its initial launch, thePlatform has rec eived more than 389,000 visits and507 registered users from 109 countries around theworld.

The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated thatinformation and communications technologies(ICTs) are key elements to galvanize effectiveresponses to protect global diasporas. In theunprec edented context of the pandemic andrestricted mobility, diasporas have used digitalplatforms to connect and organise initiatives toalleviate the immediate crisis.

To this end, iDiaspora has become a hub ofinformation where diasporas have been able to:exchange their best practic es, learn from theexperiences of other migrant communities, and

interact with key stakeholders involved in theresponse to the pandemic such as internationalorganisations, governments, and experts.

As a result of the global health crisis, iDiaspora hasbrought together over 300 members of multipletransnational communities who convened to sharetheir experienc es and effective practices in allcontributing to address the effects of the pandemicin their countries of origin and destination andwhich will be shortly published in a report.

Connecting and empowering diaspora communities

through digital information platforms

Lara LarisaTransnational Communities and Digital Communications OfficerIOM LHD HQ

Engaging with local governments and empowering migrants

towards digital inclusion and long term-integration solutions

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, IOMGreec e has continuously supported its beneficiariesin using digitalized public services and workedclosely with local governments to establish long-term migrant integration solutions.

HELIOS project staff have been remotely supportingbeneficiaries on a one-on-one basis, on how to usedigital services, such as the issuance and renewal ofunemployment cards and e-registration toVocational High Schools. This support is c rucial, asGreece’s digital services are primarily available onlyin Greek, and not easily accessed via smartphone.

During the months of April and May, when strictquarantine measures were applied in Greece, IOMGreec e with the support of the Ministry of Migrationand Asylum and the Ministry of Rural Developmentand Food, conducted a series of e-meetings toinform local actors about the involvementof beneficiaries of international protection in thelocal labour market.

The HELIOS integration project, along withthe competent authorities, initiated a series ofteleconferenc es, inviting local governments andagricultural cooperatives to discuss the challenges ofthe pandemic on agricultural production. Theseteleconferenc es were mediatized in local media ofGreec e, creating positive narratives on all aspects ofsocial integration of refugees in the country.

This cycle of e-meetings were designed toestablish stable linkages between host communitiesand refugees all over the country, smoothening thepath for more sustainable and long-term solutionsboth in accommodation and employmentopportunities.

Milan Colic HumljanProject Manager, HELIOSIOM Greece

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Staff Voice

https://idiaspora.org/mailto:lalara@iom.inthttps://greece.iom.int/en/hellenic-integration-support-beneficiaries-international-protection-heliosmailto:mailto:micolic@iom.int

Featured IOM Initiatives

Raising Awareness on Migration and COVID 19 through Graffiti and Street Art in Accra © IOM Ghana, 2020

As the world grapples with the COVID-19pandemic, societies are witnessing first-hand howdigitalization can help confront the crisis and keepmigrants, their families and communitiesconnected.

In June 2020, the UN Secretary General releasedtheir landmark report on a “Roadmap for DigitalCooperation”, highlighting the importance ofglobal connectivity, digital public goods and digitalinclusion in achieving an inclusive digital economyand society. The roadmap acknowledges thatmigrants, refugees, internal displaced persons,persons with disabilities, women, etc. are amongthe groups that are particularly vulnerable to therisk of being left behind by digitization. Withoutprompt action, there is a risk of layering thecurrent obstacles to digital inclusion on top ofexisting barriers they continuously face.

The recently released IOM issue brief onxenophobia and stigma, on the other hand,emphasizes the importance of community-basedapproaches, such as digital social mixinginterventions and online communicationcampaigns, in reducing prejudice andpromoting social cohesion.

Even before the pandemic, IOM’s longstandingexperience and existing evidence show thatproper use of digital technology is instrumental

in providing migrants with more accessibleavenues to cultural orientation and pre-departureactivities, and the skills and literacy trainingsneeded to successfully integrate into theircommunities. To illustrate these, selected IOMinitiatives are featured which focus on thefollowing themes:

Digital social mixing strategies, includingfilm screenings, at-home talent contents,virtual concerts and online platforms, topromote unity, solidarity and empathy bybringing migrants and host communitymembers together with fun activities.

Community-driven campaigns on

countering xenophobia and

misinformation which comprise ofplatforms providing users with facts andresources to counter xenophobia ,communication tools, and campaigns againstthe proliferation of fake news to ensure thedissemination of accurate information andaddress intolerance in all forms

Digital solutions for migrants’

equitable access to services such as thedigitalization of education, virtual counselling,and training in linguistic skills and digitalliteracy. These initiatives assist in mitigatingforms of digital exclusion and inaccessibility.

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https://www.un.org/en/content/digital-cooperation-roadmap/assets/pdf/Roadmap_for_Digital_Cooperation_EN.pdfhttps://www.iom.int/sites/default/files/documents/countering_xenophobia_and_stigma_130720.pdf

Many traditional sites of social connectionand mixing, such as leisure centres, publiclibraries, cafes and pubs, have been closeddue to physical distancingmeasures. These closures have ledmany marginalized individuals to becomeeven more isolated. Migrants may bevulnerable to social isolation, due to a lackof a strong social network and a limitedcapacity in the host community’s language.

Additionally, social isolation can have longterm mental health and psychosocialimpacts. Recognizing this, IOM haslaunched several digital social mixingactivities in order to strengthen socialbonds between migrants and theircommunities, while mitigating the riskfactors of COVID-19 and advancingmigrants’ psychological well-being.

IOM Peru launched “#TuCausaEsMiCausa (‘Your cause is my cause’)”to lead a social inclusion campaign for Venezuelan nationals in Peru,with UNHCR. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, #TuCausaEsMiCausahas continued to produce social mixing activities through Facebookand Instagram. Online activities included a home talent contestwhere Venezuelans and Peruvians were encouraged to vote online, alive-streamed cooking class, a live storytelling from a children’sauthor and other similar activities.

IOM Greece organized the online HELIOS Film Festival on World

Refugee Day, in collaboration with the Municipalities of Ioannina,

Livadia and Karditsa. The unique five-day long online Festival

hosted 17 movies on migration from across the globe, attractingover 1000 viewers. The online delivery of the Festival allowed the

films to have a greater impact to a wider range of audiences, while

making the Festival more accessible to everyone. Open debate

over the challenges, experiences and different aspects of

migration was encouraged, thus creating bridges between the host

and hosted communities.

IOM UK in partnership with Together Productions celebrated theUK’s Refugee Week 2020 by launching a new online global musicvideo project. People around the world were invited toparticipate in the creation this video to celebrate theextraordinary contributions of refugees and migrants to ourworld. In the video, migrants and communities filmedthemselves singing, dancing, playing instruments, and sharingimportant moments from their daily lives.

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Social Mixing:Leveraging digitalization to strengthen social relations and

cohesion between migrants and communities

https://www.iom.int/news/un-partners-including-iom-unhcr-launch-joint-campaign-strengthen-solidarity-venezuelans-peruhttps://tucausaesmicausa.pe/https://www.facebook.com/tucausaesmicausa/https://www.instagram.com/tucausaesmicausa/https://greece.iom.int/en/news/helios-film-festivalhttps://www.iom.int/news/refugee-week-2020-iom-uk-again-joins-together-productions-support-migrants-and-refugees-combathttps://www.infomigrants.net/en/post/27505/walk-with-me-music-video-connects-displaced-people-with-host-communities-around-the-world

IOM Panama broadcasted ‘Venezolanlstmo: Music and Actionin Times of Quarantine” through Youtube Live. This virtualconcert aimed to unite Panamanians and Venezuelans throughmusic and art. 25 musicians and poets, as well as hundreds ofvirtual attendees, joined their voices to generate ties ofempathy and trust.

As part of the celebration of Children's Day celebration, IOMPanama organized the Virtual Camp "We are the Same" foraround 50 children aged 5 to 12 years old. This totally free anddigital activity included storytelling, song learning, and a yogasession. It aimed to entertain, educate and share in anenvironment steeped in values such as peace, respect andsolidarity.

These initiatives are part of IOM Panama’s #SomosLoMismocampaign, a joint campaign with the UNHCR which aims topromote solidarity, respect and empathy between all migrantsand refugees living in Panama.

In the framework of the IOM-UNHCR-coordinated RegionalInter-Agency Coordination Platform for Refugees and Migrantsfrom Venezuela (R4V), the ‘One Step Closer’ campaign waslaunched which produces audiovisual content to counterprejudice against migrants and refugees in 25 countries acrossLatin America and the Caribbean. Through its web series, thecampaign promotes messages of empathy, solidarity andtolerance through projects involving refugees and migrantsfrom Venezuela, including original music scored incollaboration with the Latin Vox Machine orchestra.

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© IOM Azerbaijan

Social Mixing:Leveraging digitalization to strengthen social relations and

cohesion between migrants and communities

http://somoslomismo.com/2020/06/03/somos-lo-mismo-se-suma-a-venezolanistmo-para-unir-a-traves-de-la-musica/http://somoslomismo.com/2020/07/28/celebramos-el-dia-del-nino-en-el-campamento-virtual-somos-lo-mismo/http://somoslomismo.com/https://onestepcloser.org/https://onestepcloser.org/series/

IOM San José launched their #XenophobiaZeroonline platform, a long-term initiative that advancesan integrated and community-based approach

to detecting xenophobia and disinformation aboutmigrants. This initiative will become a go-to-hubwhere any institution or individual interested inraising its voice against xenophobia will find thetools to share positive content on migrants,act against hate-speech, and analyze xenophobictrends in the region.

Documented cases of COVID-related racistand xenophobic attacks towards migrantshave proliferated throughout the internet,ranging from hate speech, racial slurs, fakeinformation, derogatory and violentlanguage.

While digital media platforms have creatednew opportunities for social connectionsand more accessible discussions, they havealso catalyzed a great deal of hostility andmisinformation towards migrants, includingthe vilification of migrants for the originand spread of the virus.

Evidence shows that hate speech andxenophobia not only affects migrants’mental and psychosocial wellbeing but also

stigmatizes them from accessing servicesand assistance, that are otherwise availableto general population. As such,this undermines meaningful participationof migrants in various aspects ofcommunity life.

As these persisting incidents andexpressions of hate have both short- andlong-term implications for society at large,IOM has developed targeted digitalinterventions and campaigns to effectivelycounter various forms of intolerance anddisparaging expressions against migrants,through mobilizing migrants and theircommunities.

IOM RO Dakar has supported the development of an onlinelibrary of culturally adapted and context specific onlinetools to fight misinformation and the spread of coronavirusin West and Central Africa. Through this platform developedby the Regional Working Group for Risk Communication andCommunity Engagement (CREC), migrants can shareinformation by migrants, for migrants. IOM RO Dakar hasalso sustained their Migrants as Messengers programthroughout COVID-19, mobilizing over 200 migrantvolunteers to disseminate accurate information on COVID-19 through social media and in person.

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Hate Speech and Misinformation:

Addressing xenophobia and misinformation through

community-driven media campaigns

https://xenofobiacero.org/https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://xenofobiacero.org/comparte&data=04|01|acedelacruz@iom.int|457f17f86d974d7aa40c08d876628a4e|1588262d23fb43b4bd6ebce49c8e6186|1|0|637389512886876911|Unknown|TWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0=|1000&sdata=Rkzd7eZZjqeDPUFIwLd4+7NHhcOK4HZJHhJPAsI6f3s=&reserved=0https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://xenofobiacero.org/actua&data=04|01|acedelacruz@iom.int|457f17f86d974d7aa40c08d876628a4e|1588262d23fb43b4bd6ebce49c8e6186|1|0|637389512886886904|Unknown|TWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0=|1000&sdata=eMJBSyChmnkkbf08jjvFp4GfjeHfagh2OLLPK9HFqvQ=&reserved=0https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://xenofobiacero.org/analiza&data=04|01|acedelacruz@iom.int|457f17f86d974d7aa40c08d876628a4e|1588262d23fb43b4bd6ebce49c8e6186|1|0|637389512886886904|Unknown|TWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0=|1000&sdata=Y3lQB9Q8oGgJbux76nR2oI5YVMMwNHOf4edUeKwkGoM=&reserved=0https://coronawestafrica.info/https://www.migrantsasmessengers.org/https://www.migrantsasmessengers.org/covid19

IOM Bangladesh has been collaborating with governmentand local actors to establish an Interactive VoiceResponse (IVR) mass communication tool in late April.Known as the “Covid Info Line”, the system uses pre-recorded information and messaging through phonenetworks to disseminate critical information, counter mis-information, and collect community feedback, inrefugees’ local languages. As of June 02, this project has

over 26,000 registered users and over 235,000 calls havebeen made to beneficiaries. IOM Bangladesh is activelyworking to expand the IVR system’s scope to hostcommunities and activities beyond the pandemicresponse.

IOM Niger ’s Community Cohesion Initiative (NCCI)partnered with the GeoAnalytics Center to launch “FakeNews”, a nationwide online campaign that aims to reduce toproliferation of fake news across the country. Videos are inlocal languages with French subtitles – and made availablein low resolution to ensure a wider dissemination, despiteinternet connectivity issues in some of Niger’s regions.These audiovisual materials are published via WhatsAppand Facebook, Niger’s most popular social networks.

Featured IOM Mobile Apps for migrant-friendly programming

IOM’s Migration Translation App (MiTA) forphones facilitates communication betweenmigration management officials and migrantsduring border procedures and situations of firstcontact. This free, custom-built offlineapplication can offer a greater help whenmigrants move across borders during the COVID-19 crisis. It contains 52 simple questions relatingto the identity, mode of travel, health andimmediate protection needs of themigrants available in 12 languages.

Support For Migrants App provides advice on allthe nearest services and support for migrantsand refugees in the Western Balkans. Messagesspecifically formulated for the COVID19emergency are also available in English, Pashto,Urdu, Bengali, Farsi, and Arabic.

MigApp was designed to help migrants makeinformed decisions during their journeys bysimplifying access to secure and reliablemigration-related information and services. Theapp also contains select IOM programmes,allowing the Organization to reach moremigrants by leveraging the latest mobiletechnology.

The app also providesinformation on travelrisks and requirementsand low-cost moneytransfer comparison. Itis available in 8different languages.

Hate Speech and Misinformation:

Addressing xenophobia and misinformation through

community-driven media campaigns

https://www.iom.int/news/covid-info-line-enhancing-information-flows-through-interactive-voice-response-technologyhttps://www.facebook.com/watch/geoanalyticscenter/https://www.iom.int/news/new-mobile-translation-app-helping-ioms-work-covid-19-western-balkanshttp://supportformigrants.com/https://www.iom.int/migapp

Migrant Inclusion:

Digital solutions for migrants’ equitable and

continued access to services and capacity building

The COVID-19 pandemic has emphasizedthe growing importance and value of digitaltechnologies by moving many socialinteractions and social services online.However, this transition to digitalization isnot without its caveats: there are largesections of society who are now unable toaccess essential services or interact withtheir friends, family and the rest of societydue to a lack of digital access.

Digital inaccessibility can take two mainforms: 1) a lack of digital literacy, or theskills required to navigate the internet, and2) a lack of access to technology. Manymigrants do not have access to wifi or data,or do not have/cannot afford the devicesthat are required to join the digital

community. Internet non-users are atparticular risk of social isolation, due totheir digital exclusion. Migrants may alsoface additional barriers to digital inclusion,due to a reliance on others to translate thewebsites of service providers and socialmedia platforms to their native languages.While the pandemic has prompted moreinnovative approaches to service delivery,digital inclusion is of paramountimportance. The pandemic has highlightedthe potential that digitalization can bringbut it is imperative to strengthen the bondsbetween people and service providers toensure that the opportunities ofdigitalization are open to everyone.

IOM Indonesia continuously supports school children,refuges, and asylum seekers through distance learning andinformal education activities. To complement children’sdistance learning, IOM Indonesia conducted online trainingsfor public school teachers, in collaboration with UNICEF andother local NGOs. These trainings aim to build theawareness and capacities of counsellor teachers onsupporting their students’ mental and psychosocial well-being to address the challenges that distance learning canbring. Sample student assignment

IOM Germany runs a virtual counselling (VC) service designed to assist migrantsconsidering a voluntary return. Migrants in Germany can call and message IOM staff in 16countries of origin to speak in their native language about what reintegration is going tolook like in their individual case. The project was developed IOM Germany in 2019 and isfunded by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees. It aims at providing an easilyaccessible, culturally sensitive, and unbiased counselling service by establishing directcontact between the migrant communities in Germany and the counsellors in thecountries of origin. The continuous contact with the counsellors even upon return

supports a sustainable and smooth reintegration process.

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https://www.iom.int/news/iom-ramps-response-covid-19-pandemic-refugees-indonesiahttps://returnandreintegration.iom.int/en/spotlight/initiative/virtual-counselling-helps-migrants-learn-more-about-return-and-reintegration

IOM Slovakia has been managing an IOM Migrant Information

Centre which continuously provide advice and services forforeigners in the country. They provide online counselling

services regarding visa, legal advice, residence, employment inline with COVID-19 official measures from the Slovakiangovernment. This is done for example through organizing

webinars on migrant family benefits and first steps for foreignstudents.

IOM Azerbaijan launched a four-week intensive online business and financial literacy training for

youth selected from different regions within the framework of the ‘Public Action for Resilience(PAR) Activity. The training lasted from June 18 to July 18 and aimed at improving managerial

skills and financial literacy. Most participants are those who had an affiliation with YouthHouses, and Career Development Centers in the regions out of the capital. The training coveredbasic theoretical and practical knowledge in the field of fundamentals of economics

fundamentals, financial and management accounting, and business administration.

IOM Brazil facilitated greater linguistic inclusion for migrant

and refugee children undergoing remote education as aresult of the COVID-19 pandemic. Educational material,

‘Learning Paths’, was translated from Portuguese to English,French, and Spanish to support migrant and refugeechildren. This material has reached almost four thousand

refugee and migrant children. In Manaus and Boa Vista, IOMBrazil has organized several taskforces to help Venezuelan

refugees and migrants who lack internet access to completethe registration required for emergency financial assistanceoffered by the Brazilian government. Through these

taskforces, IOM Brazil has reached over 1500 people.

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IOM Greece developed asynchronous e- learning courses, which

featured 360 hours of of integration material on subjects such asGreek Language and soft skills. These courses will support

beneficiaries in their efforts to integrate into Greek society andconstitute as an important step towards digital literacy. The digitalliteracy benefits of these courses will allow beneficiaries to access

further e-learning opportunities available online worldwide. FromJune 2020 to date, 2447 beneficiaries have been supported by

HELIOS staff, while 860 are already matriculated HELIOS e-students.

Migrant Inclusion:

Digital solutions for migrants’ equitable and

continued access to services and capacity building

https://www.mic.iom.sk/en/https://www.facebook.com/events/353590109190456https://www.facebook.com/IOMSlovakia/photos/a.913683431981750/3910181388998591/https://azerbaijan.iom.int/news/iom-azerbaijan-conducts-online-financial-literacy-training-youth-10-different-regionshttps://www.iom.int/news/iom-unicef-and-sao-paulo-city-hall-facilitate-distance-learning-refugee-and-migrant-childrenhttps://www.iom.int/news/despite-pandemic-relocation-and-assistance-venezuelans-continue-brazilhttps://greece.iom.int/en/hellenic-integration-support-beneficiaries-international-protection-helios

Migrants Voice

Shedding light on migrants’ issues, resilience and concerns .

Monitoring and evaluation is a crucial part of IOM’s activities to ensure highest standard of service deliveryand accountability to beneficiaries. This section draws from IOM’s evaluation reports to highlight keyfindings and migrants’ perspectives on the successes, challenges and the path ahead in IOM’s work indigitalization, migrant inclusion and social cohesion.

Digital poverty, a key barrier, must be

addressed to facilitate the meaningful

inclusion of migrants into new and

emerging digital spaces

IOM Greece’s HELIOS programme conducted aDistance Learning Feasibility Survey, which mappedout the availability of devices, internet access andtechnological literacy of HELIOS beneficiaries. Thisdata is used to support the design of tailored distancelearning platforms, used for the provision of HELIOSintegration courses.

▪ Of the 537 respondents, 99% indicated that theyown a smartphone and know how to use mobileapplications, while only 15% owned laptops.

▪ Access to technical devices is no guarantee thatbeneficaries would be able to utilize the distancelearning plaform. While 91% of respondentsindicated they have the will and interest toparticipate in e-learning course, 66% indicatedthat they would require substantial technicalsupport to be able to participate.

▪ Similarly , 38% of respondents reported a needfor support for internet connectivity . Collectingdata on the context specific needs of migrantsand integrating them into programming is key infacilitating digital inclusion in service delivery.

IOM’s ADMIN4ALL regional program is conducting anongoing online survey with 33 municipalities across 7

EU Member States, to assess the impact of COVID-19on migrants’ access to local services.▪ The survey revealed that majority of

municipal servic es surveyed have transitioned todigital delivery (through avenues such as email,Skype, telephone, and other online platforms)but this was not always a smooth transition.Many municipalities also reported challenges inaccessing appropriate equipment.

▪ While the transition to digitalization has enabledmunicipalities to continue providing beneficiarieswith services, the survey revealed that primarychallenges included migrants’ lack of access toICT devices, communication barriers anddifficulties in reaching out to beneficiaries due tolack of specialized staff.

IOM Indonesia conducted a survey on their OnlineLearning by On-Call Teacher programme, allowingmigrant beneficiaries to continue their education andmore engage in positive and meaningful activities.Indonesia released a report on thisprogramme, which reached 328 people by July 2020.

▪ The survey revealed that respondents were moremotivated to join online learning due to theprogramme’s provision of a communicationallowance, to support their learning. Allowancessuch as these ensure that migrants have theresources required to engage with digitalization.

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Migrants Voice

The uncertainty of the pandemic has

increased the propensity of migrants to

accept deceiving or exploitative job

opportunities. Connecting migrants with

accurate and reliable online information

sources and enhancing their capacity to

recognize these is crucial in ensuring

migrants’ safety and allowing them to

make informed choices.

IOM’s Regional Program on Migration Mesoamericaand The Caribbean conducted digital surveys for theCommunication for Development (C4D) campaign,with over 400 young people in northern CentralAmerica. The surveys aimed to determine how thepandemic has affected migrants’ life plans anddecision making.

▪ The results indicated that the uncertainty relatedto COVID has increased the risk of young peoplefalling victim to face offers related to fraud,exploitation, human trafficking or smuggling.

IOM RO San Jose conducted a digital survey with 1600migrants in Central America and Mexico to gatherdata on the impacts of COVID-19 on migrantpopulations in this region. This data can be used toguide the response of actors in health, migrationmanagement, and socioeconomic recovery strategies.

▪ The study revealed that COVID-19 exposedmigrants to heightened risks of deception orexploitation when looking for job opportunities.Despite this, most participants indicated theywould risk taking a job abroad, even withoutproper information.

Both surveys highlight the importance of connectingmigrants with accurate information, digital literacyskills, and tools to recognize reliable informationsources. Without these tools, migrants are at a higherrisk of engaging with irregular migration, humantrafficking and exploitation.

The pandemic has exacerbated the

precarious position of migrants in the

labour market, which can increase digital

poverty and worsen the digital divide.

Recovery strategies must ensure that

migrants are not left behind in the

COVID-19 response.

IOM RO San Jose’s survey illustrates the impact of thepandemic on migrants’ livelihoods. As governmentsgrapple with the devastating economic effects of thepandemic, inclusive social protection measures andunemployment benefits must be taken to ensure thatmigrants are not left behind.

▪ Of the 1600 migrants surveyed, 51% lost their jobsdue to pandemic related reasons. Similarly, ofthese 51% of migrants, only 20% are currentlyworking. This means that only one third ofmigrants were able to find employment in thepandemic economy.

▪ The survey also revealed that 4 out of 10 migrantssaw their working hours cut, or had their wagesreduced, while 48% of participants indicated thattheir salaries and incomes had been reduc ed dueto COVID-19 related reasons

While the loss of livelihood can be devastating in non-pandemic times, the increased reliance ondigitization, compounded with the high costsof digital connectivity and technology, means that aloss of livelihood can potentially cut migrants out ofthe digital community.

Social mixing interventions are a powerful

tool to inform and address negative

perceptions about migration.

IOM DISC Initiative and GMDAC conducted a globalpilot evaluation of how the films and public filmscreenings of the Global Migration Film Festival caninfluence public perceptions towards migrants andunderstanding of migration.

▪ Based on data from over 4000 respondents inover 40 countries, this study revealed thatparticipation in such events can positivelyinfluence attendees’ perceptions of migrants,change their attitudes towards diversity and bringdifferent communities together.

▪ The data indicated that positive views aboutmigration increased by around 11% after viewing,and 34% of participants responded that the film“definitely” changed their perc eptions ofmigrants. 58% of respondents indicated thatmigrants enrich a country’s cultural life and 49%responded that migrants can be trusted.

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https://programamesoamerica.iom.int/en/news/new-communication-development-campaigns-progress-central-america-context-covid-19https://rosanjose.iom.int/site/en/news/iom-survey-illuminates-covid-19s-impact-migrant-population-central-america-mexicohttps://gmdac.shinyapps.io/gmff/

Migrants Voice

While the GMFF pilot study is only an initial step, itsuggests that films and film screenings are a powerfuladvocacy tool to bring attention to social issues,counter prejudice and create a platform formeaningful interactions.

Similarly , IOM Peru released an evaluation report onits “The Ball has No Flags” initiative, an intergroupcontact activity that brought together children andyouth in Peru through football. 337 Peruvian andVenezuelan girls, boys and teens benefitted directlyfrom this project, strengthening communityparticipation and networks between the two groups.

• Over 80% of participants indicated that they “havemore friends from other countries” and “are ableto connect with boys and girls from [other]countr[ies] after participating in the program.

The evaluation of these social mixing interventionsthrough sports and film screenings suggest that theyare fit for the purpose of bolstering COVID-19 relatedcounter-hate speech and xenophobia strategies.

Digital inclusion is crucial to migrants’

mental health and well-being, as it can

alleviate the pandemic-related isolation,

fears, and anxiety of migrants.

IOM Indonesia’s Online Learning by On-Call Teacherprogramme has recognized the impact of physicaldistancing measures on not only IOM’s ability toprovide services, but also on the mental health andwell-being of migrants.

▪ The physical distancing requirements and

lockdowns in countries’ pandemic measurescause social isolation and anxiety for manymigrants, at the detriment of their mental health.

▪ The On-Call Teacher programme allows migrantsto continue their social interactions and providespsychosocial activities through online learning.Participating migrant students reported feelingless stressed, as the class distracted them fromtheir worries, and that the programme providedthem with meaningful activity during the stay athome time period.

▪ Migrants continue to demonstrate

resilience and ingenuity, despite the

crisis and their personal situations.

▪ IOM RO San Jose’s survey revealed that 22% ofmigrants turned to entrepreneurship after beingleft unemployed due to the pandemic. Althoughthe majority of these entrepreneurships wereinformal in nature, this illustrates the ingenuityand resilience of migrants, despite difficulttimes.

▪ IOM Peru’s evaluation report also revealed thatin addition to intergroup contact, The Ball has NoFlags provided leadership training to itsparticipants. 10 Peruvian and Venezuelan youthwere c ertified as youth leaders to co-executesocial sporting classes, while 9 representativeswere certified for their participation in theleadership school. Through sport, participantsdevelop their leadership and cooperation skills,through the prism of equality and inclusion, tostrengthen values such as resilience, integrationand community cohesion.

IOM Argentina delivers food, hygiene and information on COVID-19 to vulnerable migrants. © IOM Argentina

https://iomint-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/personal/acedelacruz_iom_int/EWCtaK0qdoZDuDURyWLGCIkB9uN_n5kp-9BoNe9-QsQMZA?e=Yc9Zw3https://iomint-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/personal/acedelacruz_iom_int/EVRFdgIOXDZFo5t-43pSzhUBn6HERahBxKt20VAyoaMEZA?e=YSdP8uhttps://rosanjose.iom.int/site/en/news/iom-survey-illuminates-covid-19s-impact-migrant-population-central-america-mexico

IOM RO Vienna recently published guidelines on online

facilitation to support IOM offices around the world inadapting activities to an online context. This resource

outlines strategies in preparing, implementing andmonitoring and evaluating virtual activities. IOMNetherlands released a complementary instructional

video on virtual facilitation on Youtube.

IOM Turkey released a guidance note on online and virtual Mental

Health and Psychosocial (MHPSS) support during Covid-19. Socialdistancing has had negative impacts on the mental health and

coping mechanisms, which can lead to long-term consequenceswithin communities, families and vulnerable individuals. This notehighlights ways to ensure inclusion in social connection during

COVID-19, by supporting the community to find ways to connectwith each other during virtual activities.

Featured Resources on Digitalization

Guidelines for Virtual Facilitation .

Guidance Note on Online and Virtual Mental

Health and Psychosocial (MPSS) Support.

IOM has released an issue brief on countering xenophobia and

stigma, which articulates how digital media has been an importantlifeline for many during lockdown and physical restrictions, including

migrants. At the same time, social media is a platform where fakenews and misinformation related to the pandemic continuouslyproliferate. The brief notes that affected communities must be

involved in the development of effective tools to address cases ofonline hate speech, as well as NGOs, tech companies, IOs, etc.

IOM Brief on Countering Xenophobia and Stigma.

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The UN Secretary- General released its “Roadmap for Digital

Cooperation”, highlighting that migrants, refugees, internal

displaced persons, persons with disabilities, women, etc are among

the groups that are particularly vulnerable to the risk of being leftbehind by digitization. This report serves as a practical roadmap to

the implementation of the 2019 report’s recommendations and

highlights challenges such as meaningful participation through

ensuring equal to digital technology, digital capacity building, the

creation and consolidation of digital public goods, and the protection

of digital human rights.

UN Roadmap for Digital Cooperation.

Migrating in the Digital, Post-COVID World (Helvetas).

This article touches upon the multi-dimensional impacts and risks of digitalization to migrants and

migration. In an interview, Marina Manke, LHD Head articulated that there was a pronounced trend

towards digitalization in human mobility patterns even before COVID-19, and digitalization has its

pros and cons. While it is impactful, digitalization requires investment into digital skills andtherefore creates the potential for the so-called digital divide of communities. Development

organizations must be mindful while offering digital literacy opportunities and ensure it is done in

an equitable manner, allowing all communities to benefit.

AI, digital identities, biometrics, blockchain: A primer

on the use of technology in migration management

This primer seeks to serve as a first orientation for stakeholders to techtools and approaches in key migration policy areas, as well as areas wheretechnology is advancing rapidly. It outlines the potential to better predictmigration through AI-powered analysis of big data sources and theincreasing use of digital identities, particularly in humanitarian settings.Biometric borders and automated decision making, and the employment oftechnologies in asylum processes, are other crucial areas covered.

Briefs on Emerging Immigration, Consular and Visa

Needs & Recommendations .

Supporting governments with digitalizing solutions for integrated border management and IDmanagement is an IOM priority. These briefs present the most recent findings andrecommendations from the ongoing Identification and Monitoring of Emerging Immigration,Consular and Visa Needs initiative launched as part of IOM’sCOVID-19 Response.

Page 16

Resources on Digitalization

https://www.un.org/en/content/digital-cooperation-roadmap/assets/pdf/Roadmap_for_Digital_Cooperation_EN.pdfhttps://www.helvetas.org/en/eastern-europe/about-us/follow-us/helvetas-mosaic/article/september2020/migrating-in-the-digital-post-covid-worldhttps://www.gmfus.org/sites/default/files/Bither Ziebarth 2020 - technology in migration management primer 2.pdfhttps://www.gmfus.org/sites/default/files/Bither Ziebarth 2020 - technology in migration management primer 2.pdfhttps://www.iom.int/covid-19-emerging-immigration-consular-and-visa-needs-recommendations

How digitalization can help achieve fair migration (ILO)

This op-ed presents the potential of digital migration management platforms to make

regular migration more attractive by reducing the cost and time of formal recruitment

processes. It also addresses the challenges of the digital divide hidden behind theimpressive levels of connectivity in Asia.

Guidance Note on Connectivity for Refugees.

UNHCR released a Guidance Note on Connectivity which focuses on issues regardingcommunications and the delivery of remote programs and accordingly provides keyconsiderations and advice that can be used to address them. Additionally, the documentprovides relevant UNHCR resources, such as a Planning Checklist for Managers and anOperational Checklist for Practitioners, both of which help identify actions and steps tosupport forcibly displaced people’s digital access and inclusion.

Global Network Resiliency Platform (#REG4COVID).

The International Telecommunications Union ITU has launched two platforms to positivepotential of digital technologies during COVID-19. The Global Network Resiliency Platform(#REG4COVID) is a place where regulators, policy makers and other interested stakeholderscan share initiatives and exchange information among peers to ensure communities remainconnected, harness the full power and potential of ICTs during this crisis, and to prepare forthe medium and long-term recovery from COVID19. CYB4COVID outlines a list ofcybersecurity resources to allow communities, organizations and governments remainconnected securely.

Resources on Digitalization

© IOM Germany Virtual Counseling Project

https://www.ilo.org/asia/media-centre/news/WCMS_648541/lang--en/index.htmhttps://data2.unhcr.org/es/documents/download/75087https://www.unhcr.org/innovation/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/CfR-Checklist-Management_v2.pdfhttps://www.unhcr.org/innovation/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/CfR-Checklist.pdfhttps://reg4covid.itu.int/https://www.itu.int/net4/ITU-D/CDS/gq/generic/questionnaire.asp?ProjectID=1391https://www.itu.int/en/action/cybersecurity/Pages/CYB4COVID.aspx

This paper aims to better understand how technology is beingapplied in the integration context by looking at how

Intergovernmental Consultations on Migration, Asylum and

Refugees (IGC) States have used digital tools to support the

settlement and integration of migrants and refugees. This paper

highlights the specific use of technology for integration purposes

and offers insights on the best practices and considerations gainedfrom research in this area.

Digital Tools for Migrant and Refugee Integration

in IGC States

The Digital Lives of Refugees: How Displaced Populations Use

Mobile Phones and What Gets in the Way

This study conducted by GSMA, with support from the UNHCR, provides research to strengthen the

evidence base for humanitarian organizations and MNOs and showcases methods through which

humanitarian assistance can be digitalized. This report identifies the current state of mobile

technology use and accessibility for refugees, as well as barriers to access. It examines the ways thatmobile technology can improve access to financial services, utilities, identity services, food

insecurity and gender and inclusivity in the refugee context.

Measuring Digital Development: Facts and Figures 2019

This report by ITU serves to offer a snapshot of the most important ICTindicators, highlighting key barriers and areas to address to increasedigital inclusivity. This report highlights that the digital gender gap isgrowing as Internet use increases. It emphasizes that more effectiveaction is needed to address the range of barriers (eg: cultural, financial,skills related) that are impeding internet uptake, especially amongwomen.

Leveraging Technology to Support Refugee Youth

in the Middle East and East Africa

This report by the Immigrant Services Society of BC provides recommendations and information onhow technology can be used to safely provide additional support to refugee youth selected forresettlement under Canada’s humanitarian immigration stream. This report’s recommendationhighlights ways that organizations can overcome barriers to inclusion for refugee youth beingresettled to Canada through technology, though its findings can be generalized more broadlyoutsideof the Canadian specific context

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Resources on Digitalization

https://km4s.ca/wp-content/uploads/Digital-tools-for-migrant-and-refugee-integration-in-IGC-states-2020.pdfhttps://www.gsma.com/mobilefordevelopment/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/The-Digital-Lives-of-Refugees.pdfhttps://www.gmfus.org/sites/default/files/Bither Ziebarth 2020 - technology in migration management primer 2.pdfhttps://www.itu.int/en/ITU-D/Statistics/Documents/facts/FactsFigures2019.pdfhttps://issbc.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Refugee-youth-and-technology.pdf

IOM Initiatives on Countering Xenophobia

The DISC Initiative is a flexible, demand-ledand multi-phased initiative, which aims toelevate IOM’s capacity and programming tosupport Member States and relevantpartners in the areas of social cohesion,migrant integration and inclusion. The DISCInitiative serves as a global platform to share,

learn, develop and implement innovativestrategies and interventions in this area.

For more information about the DISCInitiative, please download our infosheet orvisit our SharePoint. Don’t forget to checkthe resources above!

DISC Digest, 1st

EditionDISC Digest, 2nd

Edition

DISC Resources

Page 19

DISC Digest, 3nd

Edition

Resource Bank on COVID-19

The Effect of the GMFF on Social

Cohesion

IOM Initiatives on Countering Xenophobia

IOM's Response to Xenophobia

& Discrimination

Upcoming: The DISC Initiative, in partnershipwith IOM RO Vienna, will soon release a handbookwith evidence-based recommendations and keyprinciples that enable effective “social mixing” tostrengthen migrant integration and social cohesionbetween migrants and communities.

The note will complement this digest,highlighting key factors that IOM staff and otherkey actors can draw from in developing socialmixing interventions, in both online and offlineformats. The note identifies underscores the

importance of building trust andmutual understanding between groups, carefullyidentifying and tailoring activities towards targetgroups, facilitating positive and sustainedsocial relationships, and monitoring, evaluating andadjusting social mixing programmes asneeded. Through meaningful social mixing in boththe face-to-face and digital worlds, migrants andhost communities can develop stronger positivesocial connections, and counter intolerance in allits forms.

https://www.iom.int/sites/default/files/documents/iom_initiatives_on_xenophobia_and_migrant_inclusion.pdfhttps://iomint-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/personal/acedelacruz_iom_int/ERWLJU3lCFZMmnxc-0C4dWsBcpqZqaAKLbm7mUKj1Qvutw?e=QXqtlyhttps://iomint.sharepoint.com/sites/DISCCollaborationSpacehttps://www.iom.int/sites/default/files/documents/no_social_exclusion_in_social_distancing_-_disc_digest_edition_on_covid-19.pdfhttps://www.iom.int/sites/default/files/documents/iom_initiatives_on_xenophobia_and_migrant_inclusion.pdfhttps://www.iom.int/sites/default/files/documents/resource_bank_on_covid-19_on_ensuring_migrant_inclusion_-_disc_initiative.pdfhttps://iomint.sharepoint.com/sites/DISCCollaborationSpace/SitePages/IOM-Experts%E2%80%99-Voice-on-Inclusive-COVID-19-Response-for-Migrants-in-Vulnerable-Situations.aspxhttps://gmdac.shinyapps.io/gmff/https://www.iom.int/sites/default/files/documents/iom_-_disc_xenophobia_and_migrant_inclusion_brief.pdfhttps://iomint-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/personal/acedelacruz_iom_int/EeOu_KN7iqxBtG3A-BlzqWwBfi6bJ5rIdcreJBbdMfBedQ?e=KbSp1shttps://iomint-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/personal/acedelacruz_iom_int/EeOu_KN7iqxBtG3A-BlzqWwBfi6bJ5rIdcreJBbdMfBedQ?e=KbSp1shttps://iomint-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/personal/acedelacruz_iom_int/EdFyE0DcqYVPo7TKqN8KqgQBcYUj93QfCy-16Ko3Hhj_xg?e=DODaTWhttps://www.iom.int/sites/default/files/documents/no_social_exclusion_in_social_distancing_-_disc_digest_edition_on_covid-19.pdfhttps://www.iom.int/sites/default/files/documents/resource_bank_on_covid-19_on_ensuring_migrant_inclusion_-_disc_initiative.pdfhttps://gmdac.shinyapps.io/gmff/https://iomint.sharepoint.com/sites/DISCCollaborationSpace/SitePages/IOM-Experts%E2%80%99-Voice-on-Inclusive-COVID-19-Response-for-Migrants-in-Vulnerable-Situations.aspxhttps://www.iom.int/sites/default/files/documents/iom_-_disc_xenophobia_and_migrant_inclusion_brief.pdf

The Power of Digitalization in the Age of Physical Distancing:

Strengthening social connections and cohesion through

the digital inclusion and connectivity of migrants

DISC InitiativeThe Joint Global Initiative on Diversity,

Inclusion and Social Cohesion

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this digest are those

of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of

the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

Integration and Migrant Training Unit, LHDdisc@iom.int | DISC Sharepoint17, Route des MorillonsCH-1211 Geneva 19, Switzerland

mailto:disc@iom.inthttps://iomint.sharepoint.com/sites/DISCCollaborationSpace/SitePages/IOM-Experts%E2%80%99-Voice-on-Inclusive-COVID-19-Response-for-Migrants-in-Vulnerable-Situations.aspx