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Description
The project aims to empower migrants and refugees aged 18 -35 years old, through the provision of knowledge on Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), and to strengthen the capacity of CSOs and health professionals on SRHR, to be able to serve and support more effectively the needs of migrants and refugees. It also addresses the general public in an effort to raise awareness on these issues.
The activities of the project consist of: a quality research, assessing the knowledge and needs on SRHR of migrants and refugees, Civil Society Organizations professionals and health professionals through focus group discussions, the development of training material, and the implementation of capacity building workshops for all three target groups on sexual health and rights. Finally, one of the most valuable activity of the project is the development of the first SRHR strategy of migrants and refugees in Cyprus.
The partnership brings together the lead organizations in Cyprus and Norway on SRHR, the Cyprus Family Planning Association and Sex og Politikk, and the main CSOs actively involved in migrants and refugee’s issues in Cyprus.
Summary of project results
The M-Power project aimed to address several critical issues related to Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) among migrants and refugees aged 18-35 in Cyprus. The project sought to empower these vulnerable groups by providing them with knowledge about SRHR and enhancing the capacity of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and health professionals to support and advocate for their sexual rights. Challenges included the lack of SRHR knowledge among migrants and refugees, cultural taboos surrounding SRHR topics, difficulties in recruiting participants for activities, and the need for improved methods of inclusion and support for these groups.
The M-Power project implemented a series of activities to achieve its objectives. Initially, the project conducted research to assess the SRHR knowledge and needs of migrants, refugees, health professionals, and CSO professionals. This involved focus groups, interviews, and online surveys. Based on the research findings, the project developed training materials and conducted capacity-building workshops for migrants, refugees, health professionals, and CSO professionals. The project also organized monthly gatherings for migrants and refugees to discuss SRHR topics and provided mentoring sessions. Additionally, the project developed the first SRHR strategy and action plan for migrants and refugees in Cyprus. Key activities included the implementation of four workshops for migrants and refugees, capacity-building training for health professionals and CSO professionals, and the organization of a press conference and a final conference to disseminate the project''s results.
The M-Power project achieved significant results in empowering migrants and refugees and enhancing the capacity of CSOs and health professionals. The project trained numerous migrants and refugees through workshops and engagedmore than 50 participants in monthly gatherings, although these numbers were below the initial targets. The project successfully trained 28 health professionals and 14 CSO professionals, improving their ability to support and advocate for SRHR among migrants and refugees. The project also facilitated the development of partnerships and networks among CSOs, enhancing collaboration and support for vulnerable groups. The creation of the SRHR strategy and action plan provided a valuable tool for advocacy and future initiatives. Despite some challenges in participant recruitment, the project made a positive impact on the target groups by increasing their knowledge, improving professional practices, and fostering a supportive network for SRHR advocacy.
Summary of bilateral results
The project was a partnership between the Cyprus Family Planning Association (CFPA) and the Norwegian organization Sex og Politikk. This collaboration facilitated the exchange of knowledge and best practices between Cyprus and Norway. Representatives from Sex og Politikk participated in key project activities, such as the press conference and capacity-building workshops, providing insights from Norway''s experience in SRHR for migrants and refugees. The project also strengthened the network of CSOs working with migrants and refugees in Cyprus, fostering collaboration and complementarity among these organizations. The involvement of Norwegian partners further enriched these networks. Additionally, the project ensured visibility and recognition of the contribution from the Active Citizens Fund Cyprus programme, promoting bilateral cooperation between Cyprus and Norway through various communication channels and events.