Research from the United Kingdom’s Government Office for Science (2013) suggests that greater social plurality, demographic trends, and the gradual reduction in importance of some traditional aspects of identity, will result in communities becoming less cohesive over the next 10 years.

This social landscape has direct implications for policy and its application to communities and people’s sense of belonging. Cities and municipalities that proactively welcome new and emerging communities and take steps to ensure their successful integration will be strategically positioned as globally competitive leaders.

Welcoming Cities seeks to equip Local Governments and Community Leaders to increase the sense of belonging and participation for both receiving and new and emerging communities.