Santa Cruz de Tenerife Wins Award for Innovative Linguistic Mediation Model

Santa Cruz de Tenerife has been recognized for its innovative approach to diversity management. At the recent Migradmi 2026 forum in Lanzarote, the City Council received an award for its linguistic mediation model within social services. This initiative is now considered a vital tool for ensuring fair access to public resources by removing the language barriers that often prevent vulnerable groups from receiving the support they need.

Since moving past its 2022 pilot phase, the project has been supported by a 12,500-euro budget spanning five years. This funding provides a versatile interpretation system, offering everything from in-person bilateral and whispered translation to emergency telephone support. The service covers a wide range of languages, including Ukrainian, Russian, Chinese, Wolof, Arabic, English, German, Portuguese, French, Romanian, Polish, Fula, and Hungarian.

The program goes beyond simple translation by requiring mediators to hold specific qualifications in sectors like healthcare, justice, education, and support for victims of gender-based violence. By providing social workers with this professional resource, the city has been able to build stronger trust with families and improve the overall effectiveness of its services.

The network currently operates out of several key locations across the capital, including Añaza, Barranco Grande, Los Gladiolos, Ofra, La Salud, the city center, and San Andrés. When necessary, the service can also be provided directly in residents' homes or other local settings.

This award highlights the growing importance of cultural mediation in local government. As communities become more diverse, Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s initiative serves as a model for protecting fundamental rights and ensuring that language differences do not lead to social exclusion. Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez and Councilor for Social Policies Charín González noted that the model is a key pillar in promoting equal opportunities and streamlining administrative support for all residents.