Salzburg – ESI at public events: Addressing migration challenges through cooperation and diplomacy

Jakob Reichenberger (Bildungshaus St. Virgil), Landesrätin Andrea Klambauer, Gerald Knaus, Franz Neumayer (Referat Jugend, Familie, Integration, Generationen). Photo: Land Salzburg/Stefan Mayer

ESI's Gerald Knaus was invited to speak at three events in Salzburg organized by St. Virgil, a center for education and dialogue that aims to foster social cohesion and intercultural understanding.

At the first event, a discussion with about 25 professionals who work or research in the field of migration and integration in Salzburg, Gerald spoke about the challenges of migration control and cooperation. He said that the European Union needs to do more to cooperate with countries of origin and transit to manage migration more effectively. He also said that the EU needs to develop a more humane and effective asylum system.

At the second event, a public dialogue, moderated by Monika Pink, a journalist and editor, Gerald spoke about the importance of migration diplomacy. He said that the EU needs to engage with countries of origin and transit to address the root causes of migration. He also said that the EU needs to build trust with these countries to cooperate effectively on migration.

At the third event, a youth format with students from Salzburg, Gerald spoke about the importance of education and integration for refugees and migrants. He said that education is the key to a better future, and that it is essential for refugees and migrants to be able to integrate into their new societies.

• ORF, Migration: Positives Zeugnis für Österreich ("Migration: Positive Testimony for Austria"), TV interview with Gerald Knaus, 21 March 2023
• ESI proposal: Humane Borders
• ESI proposal: New deal with Africa

Photo: Land Salzburg/Stefan Mayer

Gerald Knaus with Austrian TV. Photo: ESI