December 18th • Migration & Culture

Migrants Day

International Migrants Day is an international day observed on 18 December, appointed by the General Assembly of the United Nations in 2000. Today, we debate the psychology of migration, the economic impact of global movement, and the ethics of border control in a hyper-connected world. Why do people choose to leave their homes, and what are the true challenges of integrating into a new culture? Is migration a fundamental human right?

A vintage compass placed on an old world map

Speaking Discussion

If you had to move to a completely new country tomorrow, what is the one thing you would miss most about your home?
In your opinion, what is the most significant benefit that migrants bring to their new host countries (e.g., economic growth, cultural diversity, innovation)?
How much of a role should culture shock play in our understanding of the migrant experience? Is it something that eventually fades away?
Do you think that borders should be more open in the 21st century, or is strict control necessary for a country's stability?
What is the biggest challenge to successful integration in a new society? Is it the responsibility of the migrant or the host community to adapt?
How has the rise of digital communication changed the way that migrants stay connected to their home culture? Is this a good thing?

Activity 1: The New home Guide

The Task: You are a Relocation Consultant. You need to create a simple welcome guide for someone who has just moved to your city.

What are the three most important pieces of advice you would give them?

Activity 2: Rapid Fire Sentences

Complete the sentence and justify it in 20 seconds.

"The hardest part of moving to a new country is..."
"I think global migration is..."
"In my opinion, integration should be..."

Key Vocabulary

Migration (N) Movement of people to a new area or country in order to find work or better living conditions.
Integration (N) The action or process of integrating; (in society) the process by which individuals from different backgrounds come to feel part of a single community.
Diversity (N) The state of being diverse; variety; the presence of several distinct cultural or ethnic groups within a society.
Innovation (N) The action or process of innovating; a new method, idea, product, etc.
Perspective (N) A particular attitude towards or way of regarding something; a point of view.

Fluency Catalyst

The "Travel" Phrases: When talking about movement, use: "To hit the road," or "To be in the same boat."

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