+ Our Strategy
―Framework of Change
Migration and refugee movements have been present throughout history. However, in the last decade, these movements are happening more suddenly and face new challenges in a world that is undergoing deep, structural changes. Thus, it also requires new responses. Ashoka's Hello World team has devoted over eight years to analyzing trends and working with social entrepreneurs, policy makers, and other key experts and decision-makers in the migration sector across Europe and Latin America.
Through our +8 years of exeperience,, we identified patterns across our global network of solutions towards a shared vision for the future, bringing about a new narrative for migration and people on the move. We then organized common patterns into four overarching paradigm shifts and the core system-change principles that support each of these shifts.
Paradigm Shift #1: People on the move are powerful contributors to the good of all
Even in some of the most welcoming environments, the perception of people on the move is generally very disempowering – many are perceived as passive subjects of pity, compassion, or fear. People on the move are powerful changemakers, eager to contribute to the good of all, and the communities they join are active participants in creating spaces for changemaking to thrive.
Paradigm Shift #2: Movement is a shared experience
Everyone is on the move at some point, meaning we are all involved (whether one is in a “welcoming” or “arriving” stage). When movement is recognized as a common reality and an opportunity for change for good rather than a threat, it can spark positive changemaking and deep collaboration.
Paradigm Shift #3: Contributions from people on the move are valuable
People on the move bring value to society as a whole at many levels. The value created needs to be recognized, and tools and systems need to be developed and scaled by and for people on the move to surface and apply these resources for the good of all.
Paradigm Shift #4: Fluid communities and identities are powerful vehicles for positive change
Human movement happens and is supported by and through communities that are fluid and constantly shifting in purpose, identity, and focus. These communities must be recognized as motors for positive change and given access to tools and opportunities to increase their changemaking potential.