Dublin South Councillor shares insights with potential candidates from migrant backgrounds on running in local elections
Dublin South Councillor Madeleine Johansson recently participated as a keynote speaker in an online training programme for migrants who are interested in running in the next local elections. The session took place as part of the Migrant Electoral Empowerment Programme being run by the Immigrant Council of Ireland.
The newly launched programme is aimed at giving potential candidates from a migrant background insights into what is involved in running an election campaign, how to strengthen local connections, and practical information on canvassing and communications.
Taking place on Tuesday (20 April 2021), People Before Profit Councillor and member of South Dublin County Council, Madeleine Johansson delivered the second keynote session of the programme. She shared details of the day-to-day work of a Councillor as well as tips on ways for potential candidates to engage with their communities.
Commenting on the Migrant Electoral Empowerment Programme to date, Teresa Buczkowska, Integration Manager at the Immigrant Council of Ireland, said:
“Migrant participation in politics is a vital element of integration. It is really important for people of migrant backgrounds to know that they can be involved in Irish politics – whether that is through exercising their right to vote, or becoming actively involved with a party or campaigns they care about. It is also important for wider Irish society to have diverse political representatives – reflective of the society we live in today.
“We are running the Migrant Electoral Empowerment Programme to provide clear information for participants on what is required to run and manage an election campaign. We are delighted that we have 18 participants from all over Ireland enrolled in the training and interested in running in the 2024 local elections. We look forward to supporting their growth and education over the coming weeks.”
Commenting on her involvement in the programme, Cllr. Madeleine Johansson said:
“I was delighted to have the opportunity to deliver the second session of the Migrant Electoral Empowerment Programme, and share my experience as a migrant in the political arena. I became involved in politics in 2007 and have seen migrant representation grow slowly year after year. I hope my story can inspire others from migrant backgrounds to consider entering politics. It is important that more diverse voices are represented and heard.”
The Migrant Electoral Empowerment Programme will continue over the next four weeks with a number of local councillors from migrant backgrounds sharing their experiences and expertise. The programme is funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.