Migrant communities in the UK are a large and growing part of the overall population. The Census 2021 data shows that 1 in 6 usual residents of England and Wales were born outside the UK – that is, 10 million people or 17 per cent of the population.

Superdiverse cities like Birmingham are home to a significant number of migrants from different regions of the world. 27 per cent of Birmingham’s residents were born abroad. There are people of 187 different nationalities who live, work and study in Birmingham.

Migrants are a diverse group, including people seeking asylum, refugees, international students, economic migrants and those who are undocumented. Migrants’ rights to take part in activities like voting or working in the public sector can depend on their nationality, citizenship, immigration and visa status.

All migrants, however, should have a voice to protect their rights, prevent harm and improve decisions. Giving all migrants a voice helps build a more just and democratic society for everyone.

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