Commission on Integration and Cohesion - Terms of Reference
Diversity brings key benefits to the UK - contributed to by existing second
and third generation ethnic minority communities as well as recent
increases in immigration. But it can also lead to tensions. As a nation we
face questions about how different communities can live together,
respecting differences, but also with a shared sense of belonging and
purpose.
1. Within this context, the Commission on Integration and Cohesion will
consider how local areas themselves can play a role in forging cohesive and
resilient communities, by:
a) Examining the issues that raise tensions between different groups in
different areas, and that lead to segregation and conflict
b) Suggesting how local community and political leadership can push further
against perceived barriers to cohesion and integration
c) Looking at how local communities themselves can be empowered to tackle
extremist ideologies
d) Developing approaches that build local areas’ own capacity to prevent
problems, and ensure they have the structures in place to recover from
periods of tension.
2. The Commission will undertake its work within the context of existing
Government policy, for example on managed migration and preventing
extremism. It will be grounded in an understanding of current and
future patterns of diversity, but will focus on developing practical
solutions for local communities based on the best existing
practice.
3. It will also consider the needs of communities defined by a shared
characteristic (such as race or faith), which may require regional or
national solutions.
4. Recommendations for local areas will cover England only, but will
consider issues which affect Scotland and Wales, and good practice from
other countries.
5. The Commission will report directly to the Secretary of State for
Communities and Local Government, and will be expected to deliver its
findings in June 2007.
Communities and Local Government
June 2006
