The History Box project sought to achieve two overarching objectives: 1.Facilitate historical understanding for integration: The project aimed to enable educators to teach key aspects of their host countries’ history to migrants and refugees. This understanding helps learners connect with the societal, cultural, and institutional frameworks of their new environments, fostering inclusion and a sense of belonging. 2.Raise awareness of the value of history education in integration: The project sought to inform stakeholders, including educators, policy-makers, and civil society organizations, about the importance of history as a tool for integration, promoting cultural understanding and mutual respect. These objectives align with the Erasmus+ priorities, focusing on inclusion, diversity, and civic engagement. The project also aimed to enhance the professional competences of adult educators, equipping them with tools to address the unique needs of migrants and refugees effectively.
The History Box project was designed to address a pressing gap in the integration of refugees and migrants. While existing programmes often focus on language learning and labour market integration, they largely overlook the cultural and historical aspects that play a critical role in fostering a deeper connection with host societies. Many newcomers lack opportunities to learn about the historical processes and cultural developments that shape their new environments, leaving them disconnected from the societal norms and values of their host countries. This lack of understanding hinders not only their integration but also their ability to participate actively and confidently in civic life. History Box directly addresses this need by creating tailored tools and resources that use history as a medium for integration. Through this approach, the project aims to empower migrants and refugees to better understand, identify with, and actively and confidently engage in their new communities; while also providing educators with innovative methods to teach history in accessible and meaningful ways.