Bilbao: Bilbao City Council Local Immigration Council

The Bilbao Local Immigration Council (CLI) is a stable governance practice that, since 2011, has recognized people of foreign origin as active political actors capable of proposing initiatives and leading citizen participation actions. In a city where 14.6% of the population is of foreign origin, the CLI has transformed the role of this group into promoters of public policies.

The most innovative aspect of this practice is its transition from a purely consultative model to a collaborative public–social governance model. Through the CLI, 31 migrant associations and a group of diverse young people co-design and co-implement the municipal agenda. A key milestone is the integration of the Council into the city’s Participatory Budgeting process, allowing the group to propose projects—such as the “Anti-Racist Empowerment School”—which are validated through the vote of the entire Bilbao population, thus breaking down the silos of sectoral participation.

Inclusion and equity are addressed through an intersectional approach. In collaboration with the City Council, the Council promotes the “Recognition of Migrant Women”, an initiative that has evolved beyond an institutional event to create the “Community of Migrant Women of Bilbao.” In addition, the practice connects with other key local actors such as the University of Deusto, actively incorporates perspectives on sexual diversity (LGTBIQ+) and youth participation, and ensures safe spaces for all identities.

The impact of the CLI extends across the local administration. Its representatives participate in key bodies such as the City Civic Council, the Euskera Council, the design of the future House of Women, and the evaluation of the Bilbao Intercultural City Plan. This institutionalization ensures that migrant voices contribute to the oversight of critical public services and strengthen social cohesion in the city.

Finally, the sustainability of the model is supported by a solid operating regulation and an annual associative meeting that connects migrant organizations with neighborhood associations, educational centers, and other local stakeholders. Through this practice, Bilbao not only manages diversity but also uses it as a strategic driver to deepen its participatory democracy.

More information about: 

https://www.bilbao.eus/cs/Satellite?c=Page&cid=3000062545&language=es&pageid=3000062545&pagename=Bilbaonet/Page/BIO_contenidohttps://www.oidp.net/docs/repo/doc1887.pdf