On 14 May 2025, Kudwa—in collaboration with New Women Connectors—held the second instalment of Migrants Shaping the EU Future, turning the lens to the EU Anti-Racism Action Plan (ARAP) 2020–2025. This session brought together migrants, refugees, and policy advocates in an honest, migrant-led conversation about how racism and migration policy intersect across Europe.
What Happened
- Lived Experience at the Forefront
Migrants and refugees shared personal accounts of racial discrimination in housing, employment, policing and public services—highlighting where the ARAP’s promises have yet to reach their communities. - Policy Gaps Uncovered
Participants discussed how the Plan’s commitments on data collection, awareness-raising and legal enforcement vary dramatically between Member States, leaving racialised groups with inconsistent protections. - Intersection with Migration Rules
We explored how recent migration frameworks—deterrence measures, externalisation deals, border controls—can deepen structural racism and undermine the ARAP’s goals. - Recommendations & Next Steps
Contributors, including our special guest Sandra Alloush, who is Vice Chair of ENAR. Human rights defender and partner of WPHF.and advocacy Officer of New Women Connectors, proposed practical steps: harmonise disaggregated data standards; embed anti-bias training in local services; ensure migrant voices shape both design and implementation of national anti-racism measures.
Read the Full Policy Reflection
Why This Matters Now
The ARAP is only as strong as its national roll-out—and five years in, it shows uneven progress. As Europe marks EU Diversity Month, this conversation reminds us that racial justice cannot be separated from migration policy. True equality demands consistent data, genuine community involvement, and the dismantling of racist structures at every level.
Whether you’re new to EU policy or have decades of advocacy behind you, join us to shape a future where migrants are heard, respected and empowered.
