Building on the long-standing cooperation between the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Academy of the Police Force in Bratislava, migration lectures and interactive Destination Europe workshops were held in September and October for more than 140 students of the Academy. The activities were prepared and facilitated by representatives of IOM, which serves as the coordinator of the European Migration Network (EMN) in Slovakia.
During the lectures, students learned about the fundamental concepts of migration, its causes, and current trends in Slovakia, the European Union, and worldwide. Lectures also focused on migration policies and their impact on society, as well as on explaining common myths and stereotypes related to migration.
The lectures were followed by Destination Europe activity workshops. This interactive EMN educational activity offers a unique way to understand the complexity of migration policy-making through role play.
In a simulated environment, students took on the roles of ministers, European Commissioners, or representatives of municipalities and civil society. They negotiated, debated, sought compromises, and observed the consequences of their decisions on different groups of migrants as well as on society as a whole. According to student feedback, the activity helped them realize how many different aspects must be considered when making decisions about migration or integration policies.
The workshop supports the development of students’ skills such as communication, cooperation, negotiation, strategic decision-making, and empathy. It also helps them gain a deeper understanding of the complexity of migration processes and the need for coordination among different actors.
About Destination Europe
Destination Europe is an educational and training tool based on role-playing for groups of 4 to 6 participants. Over the course of 90 minutes, participants experience a comprehensive decision-making process on migration policies involving various stakeholders with sometimes conflicting interests.
The tool was developed by the European Migration Network (EMN) and is aimed at youth and adults aged 16 and older.
If you would like more information about this educational tool or are interested in organizing a similar workshop and/or lecture on migration topics, please contact EMN Slovakia at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
