The Civil Society Days of the Global Forum Migration and Development (GFMD) has been the yearly event where civil society leaders from around the world have come together since 2007 to discuss the stories behind the headlines, advocating for changes on the global political agenda for migration and development for the years to come. The Civil Society Days feed into the GFMD Government Summit, usually attended by over 150 government officials from across the world.
Recognising the vital role the media have played in bringing to light both the harrowing abuses experienced by migrants, but also the positive stories of migrants and refugees, we warmly extend this invitation to media representatives to register to attend as accredited media to the 2015 Global Forum on Migration and Development (GFMD) Civil Society Days, taking place on 12 – 13 October in Istanbul.
This year, the GFMD Civil Society Programme will bring together more than 300 global civil society leaders, representing migrant-led and diaspora organizations, human rights and development NGOs, trade unions, academia and the private sector. There will be debates and special events devoted to topics high on the agenda such as:
- Safe migration: root causes, route choices and alternatives for forced and dangerous migration
- Protection and durable solutions for Syrian refugees
- The newly-adopted UN Sustainable Development Goals and what they will mean for migration and migrants
- Migrant and diaspora action for job creation and social entrepreneurship
- Reforming migrant workers recruitment and employment practices
- Xenophobia and social inclusion
Read the agenda on the GFMD Civil Society website and see what topics interest you the most.
While all sessions will be open for media to attend, please take note that most sessions will take place under Chatham House Rule.
This event brings together civil society from all regions of the world working on the ground as and with migrants and refugees, as well as policy and advocacy – there is an endless wealth of stories to be told by them. We are happy to facilitate your interviews and help with information-gathering.
To join us at the event, please take the following steps.
- Fill in the media accreditation online form for the GFMD Civil Society Days, 12 – 13 October 2015, before Monday October 5 2015 (extended deadline).
- Secure your visa to Turkey.
You might need a visa to visit Turkey. It is strongly recommended that you start your visa application process today. Please refer to http://www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information-for-foreigners.en.mfa
If you need any documentation to support your visa application please let us know at: contact@gfmdcivilsociety.org.
- Make your travel and lodging arrangements.
An overview of hotels, special rates and contact information is available here.
- Accreditation to the GFMD Government Summit 14-16 October
The GFMD Civil Society Days are directly followed by the GFMD Government Summit, starting with a day of “Common Space” between government officials and civil society representatives on 14 October, followed by government meetings on 15-16 October. There will likely be a separate accreditation process for the GFMD Summit. Check out the website for further details. We will endeavour to update you as soon as possible.
Outcome of your application
There is limited space available for media. The Civil Society Coordinating Office will make the final selection of media participants based on the number of applications received and other criteria. You will receive a response from us by 7 October 2015. Upon confirming your registration, you will receive the contact details for the media focal point.