Description
2014 was declared by UNESCO as a year dedicated to citizenship, which underlines the importance that now bears the attitude of every citizen in relation to how actively chooses to be, but also the important role of education in this decision. Thus, the objective of GCR’s proposal is the enhancement of intercultural dialogue in order to raise awareness on the needs and characteristics of the refugee communities residing in Greece, with particular emphasis on children, and the overall strengthening of the concept of ‘citizenship’ – namely the active participation of refugees and asylum seekers in democratic procedures, the provision of information on their rights and obligations, and the support in claiming these. Specifically, it aims at achieving intercultural dialogue activities between schools and communities in order to ensure the long term integration of refugees in Greece, and the increased awareness of children; and the implementation of informative activities related to the full range of statutory rights of refugees and asylum seekers in Greece, including the possibility of obtaining protection status and legal residence.
Summary of project results
For the last two years Greece has had to face a growing number of refugees and immigrants; in 2015 only, more than 800,000 refugees and immigrants arrived in Greece, making it imperative to, on the one hand provide specialized information to those communities regarding their claims and the defense of their rights, and on the other hand, expand, qualitatively and quantitatively, the intercultural dialogue in order to promote social reconciliation and ensure the equal and active participation of all. The project has supported vulnerable refugee and immigrant groups by recording and evaluating their profiles and needs and providing specialized legal help regarding their obligations and rights in the country. In addition, the project has strengthened the awareness of students as well as primary and secondary school teachers regarding the rights and living conditions of refugees and asylum seekers in our country. During the term of the project a collaborative network with Refugees and Migrant Communities was developed aiming to provide information and counseling. Within this context, a primary research was carried out to record the specific characteristics and needs of these communities living in our country and regular meetings were held with the aforementioned Communities, to provide information and counseling, which benefited more than 300 people. Moreover, 482 students and teachers took part in 27 educational activities that were carried out in schools as well as the [Experiential] workshop that took place for parents, teachers and community members, regarding the projection of the importance of diversity in human relations. Finally, as part of the creative festival for the children of the Temporary Refugee Accommodation Centre in Elliniko 600 backpacks were distributed to children containing food, writing materials and toys. The project exceeded its initial goals in both quantitative and qualitative terms. In particular, it has contributed in the strengthening and networking of refugee and immigrant communities by providing personalized legal and social support and assessing the specific needs and characteristics of their members. It has also promoted the concept and values of intercultural education in the school communities forming an informational awareness [prospectus] for students on matters relating to the refugee issue and the management of diversity in general.
Summary of bilateral results