N.9. Round Table: Migration and public and urban health: A global research and policy panel discussion

Abstract

Abstract   Human mobility, migration, will continue growing, driven by poverty, insecurity, limited access to basic services, conflict, environmental degradation and disasters. Migrants often experience poorer health outcomes due to language and cultural barriers, institutional discrimination and restrictive policies that limit access to or use of health services. Immigration is a social and political determinant of health. Panel discussants from Spain, USA, and Portugal will share immigration data, research and policies on these topics: • The right to healthcare for foreign born people in Spain without legal residence• Health of the Hispanic/Latino Population in the United States• Migrants’ health in Portugal: Lessons towards Health Systems Responsiveness and Equity Spain’s Council of Ministers approved in March 2026 a royal decree regulating access to publicly funded healthcare for undocumented migrants, ensuring a uniform and equitable procedure nationwide. The process is simplified through a self-declaration system and more flexible proof of residence, reinforcing the principle of universal healthcare within the national system. The decree prioritizes vulnerable groups; minors, pregnant women, and victims of violence. Hispanic/Latino people represent the largest minoritized racial/ethnic group in the United States (US). While considered a monolithic group, this population is very heterogeneous in the context of countries of origin, migration patterns and status, racial identities, and socioeconomic position (SEP). They represent the largest proportion of the US immigrant population (44.5% of 47.3 million), with one in three Hispanics/Latinos being foreign-born. The health of Hispanics/Latinos has been masked by the Hispanic Paradox, which states that despite their low SEP and access to healthcare, they have similar or better health outcomes than non-Hispanic Whites. However, this paradox is at risk of disappearing due to the heightened xenophobia and anti-immigrant sentiments in recent years. Increasing recognition of health inequalities has brought attention to the health challenges faced by migrant populations. Portugal has lately made efforts to expand access to health services for migrant populations and strengthen health system’s responsiveness. We will reflect on how health systems and public policies can respond to the health needs of migrant workers while promoting social inclusion and equity. Key lessons from Portugal experiences highlight the importance of inclusive health policies, intersectoral governance, and community-based approaches. After the three presentations, the moderator will open up for 10 minutes audience questions from the audience. Next, we will present a summary table of public health policies and politics in these settings opening up again to the audience for discussion in other global scenarios. Key messages • Research Message: Migrant health research needs more and better-quality data for evidence-based policy. • Policy Message: Xenophobia and anti-immigrant sentiments blocks access to healthcare and is increasing health inequalities in all three countries under study. Speakers/Panellists Sónia Dias National School of Public Health, NOVA University Lisbon, Lisboa, Portugal