The European Commission is looking for innovations in products, technologies, services and models that can support the integration of refugees and migrants. Innovations can relate to any aspect of the reception and integration process including, but not limited to, ideas around:
- education and skills development
- employment and entrepreneurship
- access to appropriate housing and health services
- safety and human rights
- community cohesion and cultural diversity.
Applications that are led by or have been co-created with refugees and migrants are encouraged.
Competition background
Europe has recently witnessed a dramatic increase in the number of refugees and migrants travelling to the continent with more than a million new arrivals.
This unprecedented inflow of people, many of whom are vulnerable individuals seeking international protection, presents a challenge across Europe not only in terms of their immediate reception, but also with regard to their long-term integration into society.
Throughout history, common values and the collective identity of Europe have been shaped by the help of the diversity of its people. The shift in population and migration represents not only a challenge but also an opportunity to build new inclusive communities and to grow Europe’s economy.
Many refugees and migrants have the potential to be the next entrepreneurs and innovators, but without the right support, their skills can be wasted and they may become marginalised.
Innovative and creative approaches are needed to realise the potential of refugees and migrants. This year’s competition is therefore entitled Integrated Futures.
For more background on innovative and effective approaches to migrant integration, read through the series Beyond Crisis: Migrant Integration on the Social Innovation Europe platform.
To enter the competition, click here
Photo credits: Getty Images
