The project “From intention to implementation based on European know-how” aimed to achieve several key objectives related to integrating migrants and refugees across Europe. The main objective was to develop and disseminate a comprehensive understanding of the integration process using the European Model of Migrant and Refugee Integration (EMI), based on the four levels of George Ritzer’s sociological theory. By studying integration practices in the partner countries – Germany, Bulgaria, Italy, Ireland, Portugal and Norway – the partners aimed to provide valuable insights and practical recommendations by creating National Models of Migrant and Refugee Integration. One of the main objectives was to increase awareness and understanding of the complex integration process among stakeholders, including policymakers, organisations and the general public. The project “From idea to implementation based on European know-how” aimed to create a comprehensive, accessible and practical model for understanding and supporting migrant and refugee integration. By raising awareness, promoting cooperation and providing concrete tools and examples, the project aimed to improve the effectiveness of integration efforts across Europe.
We applied for this project because of the growing need for comprehensive and practical European immigrant and refugee integration models. Creative Europe EWIV, with its extensive experience in immigrant integration, identified the need to develop a standardised European Model of Migrant and Refugee Integration (EMI) to guide and support organisations working in this field. While the primary focus of the project partners was on migrants and refugees from Eastern Europe, the partners also considered the needs of people from other regions, recognising their diverse challenges. We believe that a collaborative approach involving partners from Germany, Italy, Bulgaria, Norway, Portugal and Ireland is essential to develop a model that reflects the diverse realities of migrant integration across Europe. The project partners believe that the project's work and its results address the urgent need for holistic, adaptive, inclusive, and effective integration models. Through this project, we aimed to empower organisations working with migrants and refugees to promote intercultural understanding and create sustainable solutions that facilitate the successful integration of all migrants, regardless of their background.