City developing programs to improve relations between expats and the local population

Cuenca is asking expats for assistance in planning programs that will help foreign retirees better integrate into the city’s social and cultural life. An online expat survey is being prepared and will be posted in the coming days.

Cuenca wants to hear from expats.

Cuenca’s Department of External Relations is conducting a study to gain more detailed knowledge about this group, especially its demographic profile, life experiences in the city, participation in local programs and events, challenges, and future interests. The study is being coordinated with the United Nations Program for Development (UNDP).

“There are a significant number of expats living in Cuenca under a variety of immigration visas,” according to a statement from external relations office. “Cuenca is developing several programs in order to facilitate good interaction between the local population and visiting foreigners and those who have decided to live in the city permanently.”

The statement continues. “The group of migrants who have decided to live in Cuenca permanently includes North Americans and Europeans who are enjoying retirement in our city. This group, along with the local population of a similar age, is an age group that is of interest in the making of national and local public policies,” it says.

The city has commissioned the consulting firm Advance Consultora to development an online questionnaire and collect expat information. When it is completed, the survey will be posted on CuencaHighLife.