Fostering Local Integration Through a Participatory and Multi-stakeholder Approach in Athens

Athens

Mayor

Haris Doukas

Start of Project

31/08/2023

End of Project

01/12/2024

© UNHCR/Athina Vrakatseli

Overview

The City of Athens commits to promoting the integration of refugees by applying an intersectional lens, through a participatory approach.

By the end of 2024, the municipality was to set up a new Local Integration Strategy, to be implemented by the Migrants’ Integration Center of the City of Athens and Eurocities. This strategy has been developed following a participatory and bottom-up approach involving refugee communities. They will also be involved in its implementation and evaluation. The city will also set up dedicated mechanisms of consultation with central and local government, as well as civil society actors and UN agencies.

Through this Strategy, recognized refugees and migrants with a regular status are eligible to find accommodation and support in the Homeless Center of the City of Athens and will be included in any social and affordable housing policy that will be developed.

The municipality will also enhance its services, promoting access to skills and qualifications based on job market needs, with an emphasis on women entrepreneurship and the smooth transition of young adults to technical education and work.

Priority Objectives

Providing access to urban infrastructure, social services, and education,

regardless of status

Realising socio-economic inclusion