The UK is home to people from many different countries and cultures. Cities like Birmingham are very diverse – about one in four people living there were born in another country. In fact, people from 187 different nationalities live in Birmingham.

When migrants get involved in civic, political or public activities – like volunteering, voting, or joining local campaigns – their voices can be heard and represented in decision making. This can also bring migrants and local communities closer together and help migrants feel more included and integrated in society.

‘Integration’ is about people from different backgrounds learning to live and work well together. It’s not just about migrants adapting – it also means that local communities and systems change too. Sometimes this can lead to disagreements, but these conversations are part of building fairer relationships and societies.

Migrant support organisations and community groups often speak up for different groups of migrants – including people seeking asylum, refugees, international students and migrant workers – so their needs are considered when decisions are made.

Some migrant groups are better represented than others. Those who have arrived in the UK more recently may not have strong networks or local organisations to speak on their behalf. It’s important for migrants to get involved so that all kinds of migrant voices are represented and included in decisions. When policies reflect the real needs of the people living in a place, they are fairer and work better for everyone.

Did you know that ethnic minorities and migrants in the UK are under-represented in politics and public life? Overall, they are less likely to register to vote and to turn up at elections than the wider population. They are also less likely to work in public sector leadership roles. This means their views may not be fully represented.

For migrants, there are many other benefits of getting involved in civic, political and public life – you can build stronger links with local community, gain new skills and experience, feel more at home, improve your own well-being, and promote positive views about immigration.

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