On September 11-12, 2024, Finland and Somalia, co-hosted the Khartoum Process thematic meeting in Helsinki, focusing on leveraging migration for sustainable development. The event gathered over 80 participants, including representatives from 13 diaspora, youth, and women organisations, to discuss how these groups can influence and contribute to migration governance and development policy.
Finland presented the National Dialogue Method, a participatory process designed to foster inclusive, constructive conversations between diverse groups in society, ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered in the policymaking process.
A key highlight of the meeting was the Diaspora Innovation Hub, a dynamic platform designed to showcase the contributions of diaspora, women and youth communities to sustainable development. The Hub aimed to give a voice to the CSOs, particularly women and youth diaspora groups, by providing them with a space to network, share best practices, and engage with policymakers. This initiative underscores the critical role that the civil society plays in fostering development, cultural exchange, and policy advocacy.
The event emphasised the need for inclusive and comprehensive migration policies that harness the potential of diaspora and youth communities. Through the discussions in the various sessions, the meeting demonstrated how collaboration between governments and civil society can lead to sustainable solutions for migration and development.