Supported by the Nordic Council of Ministers Office in Lithuania, this event marked a significant step in addressing refugee and immigrant integration across the Nordic-Baltic region. Bringing together experts and stakeholders, the conference explored practical strategies and evidence-based approaches for more cohesive and sustainable integration policies at the local level.
Project For-In has been a pivotal platform in advancing integration policies across the Baltic states, combining regional partnerships with Nordic expertise to support local authorities, civil society, and refugee communities. The final conference emphasized consolidating knowledge, strengthening local-level capacities, and establishing priorities for the future of integration.
Key Themes and Takeaways from the Conference:
1. Local-Level Integration Planning and Partnerships A well-coordinated approach among local authorities and civil society was highlighted as essential for successful integration. Experts from Finland, Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania shared insights into effective local partnerships, showcasing the impact of cross-sector collaboration on integration outcomes.
2. Transforming Research into Policy The event explored ways to transform research into actionable policy at the local level. With presentations focused on recent data from the Baltic and Nordic countries, panelists demonstrated how evidence-based policy-making can address unique regional challenges, reinforcing the need for data-driven integration frameworks.
3. Cooperation and Sustainability at Multiple Levels Discussions around national, local, and grassroots collaboration highlighted the value of inclusive practices. Participants examined case studies from diverse organizations, emphasizing the importance of integrating migrant voices into policy design and implementation to create responsive, sustainable support systems.
4. Mental Health, Well-being, and Integration Recognizing mental health as a critical factor for successful integration, the final session focused on psychosocial support. Experts from UNHCR and the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare shared approaches to culturally sensitive mental health support for migrants, underscoring its importance in fostering overall well-being and community resilience.
The conference concluded with remarks from Helén Nilsson, Director of the Nordic Council of Ministers Office in Lithuania, who affirmed the need for continued collaboration in refugee and immigrant integration. The event, part of Project For-In’s broader mission, has significantly contributed to the foundation for future localized, research-backed policy efforts that advance integration across the Nordic-Baltic region.
Dr. Larisa Kangaspuro, leader of the Multinational Migrants: Ways of Adaptation in the Nordic and Baltic Countries project, attended the conference and found the discussions deeply relevant to the project’s goals. The insights gained from this event highlight the importance of adaptive, inclusive practices, offering valuable perspectives on creating resilient integration frameworks that align closely with the objectives of Multinational Migrants.