Mayors, deputy mayors, councillors, and policy officers from members of the Intercultural Cities network have been invited to apply for the training course on “Communication and media training for mayors: promoting intercultural narratives in difficult times” which will take place on 27-28 October 2022 in Strasbourg, France.

Migration and diversity are key parts of the public debate in Europe on culture, social cohesion, and identity. These topics stir emotions and attract political controversy with equal measure, presenting those who see strength in the inclusive and intercultural future of cities with unique challenges.

Communicating the positive vision of intercultural cities, while strengthening community trust and promoting solidarity, requires a media skill-set that combines engaging, optimistic, and timely messaging.

This two-day course aims to provide the participants with the tools, techniques, and confidence to carry out effective media interviews (TV, radio or print) regardless of the media scenario or the circumstances. Participants will also learn how to promote effective messages, narratives, and stories about intercultural integration, thereby helping to create and promote the very best of intercultural cities around the world. The training will also cover good practices from other cities and techniques on how to deal with potential backlash and hate speech.