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Slovakia has not been traditionally a target country for migration in large extents. After the political system reform in 1989 and joining the EU in 2004 the country underwent rapid economic and social development and became more attractive for migrants. Ever since, the number of migrants has been increasing which poses new challenges for public health. The objective of this presentation is to give an overview of recommendations for inclusion of migrants in health promotion activities from a perspective of a country which just recently became a target country for migrants.
Methods
We performed structured interviews with providers of health promotion, with migrants both with experience in participation on health promotion activities and without it. Additionally, we conducted a Delphi survey among health promotion experts and gathered their views on participation of migrants in health promotion. All results have been used to formulate a set of recommendation for good practice of health promotion in migrant communities.
Results
The main barriers for health promotion activities in migrants identified by providers were language, cultural background and lack of knowledge on health promotion the by the migrant communities. The formulated recommendations included recognizing migrants as a specific target group in policies on all levels, more effective communication of health promotion as such and the specific activities, involvement of community members, adjusting the activities and approaches to cultural, religious and language background of the target communities.
Conclusion
Slovakia is an example of a country where migration is a growing challenge for public health. Policy makers, public health academic professionals and authorities working in the field of health promotion must recognize this and adjust their policies, planning and approaches. Good examples from countries with experience in this field are of high value.
Learning Objectives: 1. List the main conducive and hindering factors of participation of migrants in health promotion activities 2. Analyze and discuss views and recommendations of health promotion providers, experts and migrants on participation of migrants in health promotion activities. 3. Understand the challenges of effectively introducing health promotion activities in migrant communities in post communist countries.