Italy
In a world marked by deep inequalities and ongoing forced displacement, extending a helping hand to those seeking refuge represents one of the highest expressions of authentic humanity.
On the occasion of its 75th anniversary, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) established the «Crossroads Award», a new global recognition designed to highlight individuals, civil organizations, and community initiatives that tangibly transform the lives of migrants, displaced persons, and host communities.
The award aims to give voice to experiences capable of fostering safe, orderly, and regular integration, always placing the protection of fundamental rights, widespread well-being, and the inviolable dignity of every person on the move at the center.
Founded in 1951 to offer immediate relief to displaced people in post-war Europe, IOM now wishes to illuminate the precious network of solidarity that often works far from the media spotlight. As clearly emphasized by Amy Pope, Director General of the agency, «every day we see migrants strengthening their communities and people coming together to help those on the move find safety, rebuild their lives and share their skills».
An alliance among communities to foster cohesion and hope
The «Crossroads Award» does not only reward large institutional projects, but above all celebrates the richness of grassroots responses blooming within local territories. Nominations are open to a broad diversity of social actors: volunteer associations, civic movements, local leaders, migrant-led initiatives, ethical businesses, universities, and faith-based groups.
What unites these experiences is a daily commitment to generating social cohesion, community protection, and shared prosperity, transforming places of transit and arrival into fruitful laboratories of peace and cooperation.
Hospitality and works of mercy in response to global crises
For the network and vision of spazio + spadoni, this initiative forcefully echoes the enduring value of the works of mercy, both spiritual and corporal, in the contemporary world.
The call to «welcome the stranger» does not end in sterile bureaucratic or emergency relief, but is realized in the capacity to recognize the face of the other, listen to their story, and empower them to build their own future. Saying one’s HIC SUM in the face of the needs of displaced people means tearing down walls of fear and experiencing a generativity that renews local communities.
The winner of the first edition will be announced on December 9, 2026, during the official event commemorating IOM’s 75 years.
This recognition represents a tangible testimony of hope: an invitation extended to all of civil society to value those who do not look away and to consider welcoming not as a burden, but as an extraordinary opportunity for growth, compassion, and brotherly renewal of humanity.
Source: Agenzia Sir
