A10.1 Debate on the welcoming of refugees

  • On December 21, 2017, as part of International Migrants' Day, our 2nd Bachillerato (12th graders) we had a debate on the topic "¿Ponemos Muros o Acogemos Refugiados?" (Walls or Welcomes?). The event was organized by the Departments of Economics and Philosophy and, even though the participating students were not directly involved in our Joining Hands project, it is a good example of how the topic of Migrants and Refugees is entering the curricula of the different departments.

    It was a lively debate. Among the arguments for welcoming, the following were mentioned: cultural enrichment of country of destination, fulfilment of international law, basic decency to helpi those in need, Spain's history in the 1930's as a sender of refugees. Those opposed to the arrival of refugees mentioned: labour market competition in a situation of high unemployment; increase in criminal activity; pressure on social services; specially on health and education services.

    It was lively and friendly. At the end, the team "against refugees" acknowledge that they had just played along, for the debating sake, but that they were really 100% for the welcoming of those in need. It was a really friendly ocassion.

     

     

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