Rethinking Migration from a Social Innovation Perspective

 
 

Catalyzing New Frameworks for Migration Conversations

Migration is often placed as a central issue in society’s increasing polarization, and it is framed as a massive, unsolvable problem in which migrants are passive objects of compassion or fear. But this isn’t quite accurate. From the perspective of social innovation, migration is a major force for positive change and a source of changemaking like none other. Indeed, there are many innovations, solutions and insights from the sector of migration that can help us unlock change for good in key areas of society like participation and democracy. Emphasize the importance of shifting migration narratives and catalyzing new initiatives.

What is the Hello Europe Tour?

The Hello Europe Tour is a series of events across Europe, hosted by Hello World, Ashoka’s Global Migration Initiative, in collaboration with local partners. These gatherings bring together leading social innovators, changemakers, and thought leaders to reimagine migration through the lens of social innovation.

Our Goals:

  • Challenge conventional narratives by presenting migration as an opportunity for progress.

  • Share actionable insights, solutions, and innovative practices from the migration sector.

  • Foster dialogue among key stakeholders, including corporate leaders, policymakers, social entrepreneurs, and academics.

Calling All Changemakers

The tour is designed for:

  • Social Innovators and Entrepreneurs: Leaders exploring ways to integrate migration solutions into their work.

  • Corporate and Foundation Leaders: Decision-makers seeking to leverage migration innovation for business and societal impact.

  • Policy Experts and Academics: Professionals working on migration policies and research, eager for new perspectives.

Why Now?

Migration has become a central issue in society’s polarization, often framed as too big or too complex to solve. Yet, the reality tells a different story:

  • Migration is a defining aspect of human existence, filled with untapped potential.

  • People on the move are not passive—they are changemakers eager to contribute to their communities.

Europe stands at a critical juncture. With the right policies and narratives, migration can strengthen societal cohesion and drive innovation across sectors.

Hello Tour Destinations & Themes

  • Vienna, Austria (January, 16th 2025): Rethinking Migration from Social Innovation:

    every person on the move a changemaker.

    Vienna marks the first stop on the Hello Europe Tour, where leading social entrepreneurs and leaders from the sector of migration and social innovation will present some of the key insights that can change our paradigm around migration and people on the move.

    Through this open conversation, co- hosted by Hello Europe, Ashoka’s Migration Initiative, Ashoka Austria and Forum Razumovsky, we aim to provide practical examples, tools and framing to re-think migration in a new light, where people on the move and the communities that welcome them can be fully activated as changemakers eager to build for the good of all.

    Check out the event Rethinking Migration: Every Person on the Move a Changemaker and reserve your spot if you are in the city of Vienna!


  • London, UK (March 2025): Reframing migration narratives: Moving beyond division in post-Brexit Britain.

  • Spain (TBD): Balancing integration and border control with social innovation.

  • Turkey (TBD): Long-term integration of Syrian refugees.

  • Sweden (TBD): Understanding shifts in migration policies and fostering inclusion.

  • Italy (TBD): [Context to be defined].

Get Involved

Want to join the conversation? Attend one of our events, or contact us to explore hosting opportunities in your city.