Description
Foreigners in Czech Republic (CZ) have limited access to affordable accommodation in difficult life situation. Shelters are generally unprepared to take them in due to language barriers, cultural and religious biases while the social accommodation that is offered by cities are openly discriminating against foreigners (i.e. Prague). The objective is to support foreigners in finding affordable accommodation in difficult times and to raise awareness about discrimination of foreigners in this issue. We will assist foreigners who has problems with finding accommodation in difficult times and help them to insist on their rights. At the same time we will train workers and intercultural assistants so they can in turn provide their services to foreigners in need. PPI will also start a campaign to raise awareness about the problem. The target group of the project are foreigners living legally in CZ, Czech municipalities and shelters for people in need.
Summary of project results
Foreigners in CR are in need of support in various difficult life situations. They have limited opportunities to receive support trough official social services and they even face discrimination in the process. Many officials exclude applications from foreigners requesting social housing services. Our workers provided clients with counselling and interpretation services in order to raise their chances in the housing market when searching for suitable accommodation. At the beginning of the project, promotional materials and a video spot were prepared. A poster and leaflets for our migrant target group in four different languages were created and a special flyer for service providers, state institutions and flat owners. Also, video spot supporting the campaign for equal living conditions for foreigners "Even simple things may be complicated" was shot. These materials were distributed to state institutions/places were foreigners frequently go to, and uploaded on our website/social networks. Within the campaign for equal living conditions for foreigners, two round tables were organized where important issues on the matter were discussed. The round tables were attended by 41 participants representing key organizations and there is a material "Why are foreigners discriminated in the CR when accessing the housing market?" as an outcome. This material was distributed to all campaign participants and to other stakeholders, as well. Within the campaign, three courses “Intercultural Competencies” were realized covering following topics: introduction of the project and our organization, intercultural interpretation, types of visa/residency and statistics, intercultural communication and cultural dimensions. In total, 50 migrants (individuals or families) mainly from 3rd world countries were involved in the project. Mediation services were used in 10 cases. After the project ended we continue to provide these services. Clients and institutions turn to us when dealing with housing issues or when in need of mediation services.
Summary of bilateral results