On 21 April 2026, the EPIC-UP project brought together over 65 participants at the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) in Brussels. The event focused on how migration narratives are constructed across Europe, how they shape public discourse and influence policymaking, and what concrete steps can be taken to improve these narratives and promote more inclusive policies at local and European levels.
The event was co-organised by AEIDL, ALDA and KMOP as part of EPIC-UP, an EU-funded project focused on improving the inclusion of newcomers at the local level.
The Policy Lab created a space for exchange between European-level institutions and local actors working directly on inclusion. The conclusions of the event, together with the EPIC-UP desk research and consultations, will serve to develop a policy brief on migration narratives with policy recommendations.
From fear-based narratives to human-centred storytelling
The experts agreed that changing migration narratives requires moving from fear-based, top-down storytelling to inclusive, human-centred and locally grounded approaches.
Research shows that current migration narratives are largely shaped by securitisation and crisis framing. These narratives are amplified by political discourse, media and social media dynamics, while migrant-led perspectives often remain marginalised. This reinforces polarisation and influence policy responses. Speakers reflected on how securitised narratives have influenced recent policy developments, including the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum.
Participants stressed that more effective communication approaches must highlight real human experiences, everyday contributions and be based on people’s values. Additionally, direct human contact remains one of the strongest antidotes to misinformation and fear-based narratives.
However, they also underlined that communication alone is not enough. Inclusive narratives must be backed by inclusion policies, sustained investment and meaningful opportunities for participation.
Looking ahead
The EPIC-UP Policy Lab concluded with a shared understanding that transforming migration narratives is not a short-term communication exercise, but a long-term societal process. Sustainable change requires collaboration across policymakers, media professionals, civil society organisations and migrant communities themselves.
Ultimately, normalising migration as a natural part of contemporary European society means replacing crisis-driven narratives with stories rooted in dignity, participation and shared futures.