By Councillor Maureen Chalmers, COSLA Community Wellbeing Spokesperson

The 28th of July marks the 75th anniversary of the UNHCR 1951 Refugee Convention. The Convention sets out who can legally be recognised as a refugee and most importantly, it establishes the rights for those who fear for their safety and lives to seek sanctuary and protection in other countries. It is a principle which we often take for granted but it was not so long ago that this right did not exist and we rarely reflect on how fragile it is.

Scotland has continually upheld the principles of the Convention, and been proud to welcome new families, new culture, and New Scots into local communities. Those who are new to Scotland bring so much value to their communities, but in the current climate this is not always recognised. Those seeking sanctuary here are frequently ascribed blame for wider social and economic pressures experienced by communities.

As Scottish Local Government we remain committed to strong, safe communities where all people feel a sense of belonging and shared purpose. Social cohesion is fundamental to thriving places, fostering wellbeing, trust in public services, and confidence in local democracy. However, the combined impact of economic pressures, global instability and shifts in political discourse have tested the social fabric of many communities, made visible through an increase in local tensions, anti-migrant rhetoric and an uptick in protest activity. Against this backdrop, the principles of belonging and inclusion that underpin a sense of community have been compromised.

Scotland prides itself on being a welcoming and inclusive home for all newcomers, and the internationally recognised New Scots Refugee Integration Strategy reflects this commitment in practice. Grounded in the principle that integration is a two-way process, the strategy seeks to support people seeking safety to rebuild their lives from day one and enrich the communities that welcome them.

The pivotal role of Local Government in supporting New Scot arrivals and integration into local communities is often underestimated. Council staff are often the first friendly face people see after arriving in Scotland and are the main point of call in supporting people navigating access to key services such as healthcare, education, and housing. Local Government continually considers how New Scots and wider communities across our villages, towns and cities can live well together, supporting the creation of harmonious and resilient communities. This is about communities coming together, supporting one another, and recognising the unique strengths and attributes that each person can bring to help create thriving places.

However, this is not something local authorities can do alone - one of the cornerstones of the New Scots strategy is its commitment to partnership. Partnership begins with local authorities, COSLA, the Scottish Refugee Council and the Scottish Government, but integration happens wherever people come together, in schools, workplaces, libraries and homes.

Scotland’s approach to integration should be celebrated. As we mark the 75th anniversary of the 1951 UN Refugee Convention, it is important to recognise the vital role Scottish local government has played in turning its principles into practical action. At a time of global uncertainty and instability, initiatives such as the New Scots strategy demonstrate how partnership working, inclusion, and access to services can help to rebuild lives whilst fostering, stronger, fairer and more resilient communities.