Canary Islands Cooperation Program for Migration and Intercultural Harmony

Overview

On November 11, 2025, the Canary Islands' Regional Government formalized a new cooperation agreement with the University of La Laguna aimed at enhancing migration management and fostering intercultural harmony across the archipelago. Named "Canarias Convive II," this program emphasizes social cohesion, equal opportunities, and respect for human rights for all residents, regardless of their origin.

The initiative continues the work of a previous agreement from September 2021 and aligns with the recently approved Canary Immigration and Intercultural Coexistence Plan for 2026-2029. It seeks to:

• Strengthen institutional capacity
• Improve intercultural education and healthcare access
• Facilitate employment, housing, and social services for migrants
• Promote community-level intercultural dialogue

Funding and Activities

Funded with approximately €560,000 from the regional budget over two years, the project involves extensive activities including:

• Curriculum development
• Intercultural events
• Informational campaigns
• Professional training

A dedicated research team led by Professor Vicente Manuel Zapata Hernández will oversee the implementation.

Goals and Commitment

This collaborative effort aims to position the Canary Islands as a benchmark for inclusive, diverse communities. The agreement also emphasizes:

"The importance of data protection and responsible handling of personal information, ensuring compliance with European privacy laws."

Overall, the partnership underscores the government's commitment to managing migration proactively while advancing social cohesion and human rights.