The congress takes place in a context of high migratory pressure in the islands, especially on El Hierro, following a surge in arrivals since October. In the first 10 days of November, around 7,500 people have arrived, and over 1,100 minors have reached the islands' coasts alone in recent months.
This situation has led President Clavijo to meet with the Spanish Government to analyze the crisis and demand resources. In a meeting with seven ministers, he highlighted the strain on public services and the autonomous community's "solitude" in facing this new surge. The State has committed to reinforcing the healthcare system in El Hierro, expediting transfers to prevent the archipelago from becoming a giant detention center, and holding regular meetings for a coordinated response, along with compensatory measures for the people of El Hierro.
Organized by Islas Responsables Lab (IRLab) of the Government of Canarias, the congress aims to open a space for interdisciplinary reflection. It will address how social networks are transforming the construction and dissemination of perceptions about migration, competing with data, scientific knowledge, and direct experience.
The program includes presentations such as 'Is our perception of migration changing?' by Rut Bermejo (Real Instituto Elcano), and the presentation of the study 'Youth and migration in Canarias: perceptions, concerns, and new narratives' by Beatriz de León Cobo (IEAM).
There will be round tables on 'Generation Border: youth and immigration,' with Sabina Civila and Silvia Caraballo analyzing restrictive discourses; and a debate between journalists Nicolás Castellano, José Naranjo, and José María Rodríguez (EFE Canarias) on how to report on migration amidst media "noise."
The day will conclude with a conversation led by young people reflecting on 'How do we want to talk about migration?'
Prior to this event, on Tuesday, November 17, the Elder Museum will screen the film 'Mariposas Negras,' winner of the Goya Award for Best Animated Film, directed by David Baute. Following the screening, students from various educational centers will speak.
