Resettlement remains one of the best temporary options for refugees. This is mainly for those living in countries where there is little or no government support. Italy’s Humanitarian Corridor Project is a worthy example for the whole world.
The Federation of Evangelical Churches in Italy (FCEI), the Community of Sant’Egidio, Waldensian Table, Methodist Churches, Caritas Italiana, and the Italian government have been instrumental. They collaborated to form the humanitarian corridor initiative. This project looks to sponsor and support the resettlement of refugees.
Since February 2016, there has been over 1700 and 500 Lebanese and Ethiopian refugee resettlements in Italy. It is worth remarking on the outstanding emulation efforts made by France, Belgium, and Andorra. Their resettlement policies also resulted in 500 migrants having homes, Info Migrants reports.
What is the Humanitarian Corridor Project?
As the name suggests, the humanitarian corridor is a temporary demilitarization zone. Its objective is to allow the safe entry of humanitarian aid and/or the safe exit of refugees in a crisis region.
This self-financed project has already brought nearly 2700 migrants and refugees to Europe. The Community of Sant’Egidio sponsors some projects. Equally, the Waldensian Table receives personal income tax devolution known as “8×1,000” organized by religions.
As an added credit to the exceptional work of the prestigious UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award this year, they partnered with the HCP has helped thousands of refugees. This collaboration has provided refugees with a safe and legal pathway to protection, says Vatican News.
How do they operate?
All refugees and migrants were divided among regions. In total, Italy provided accommodation to some 91 refugees. Amazingly, there was a welcome event at Italy’s Fiumicino Rome airport this week, Info Migrants added. At the same time, there were separate groups consisting of 64 Syrians from Lebanon. Applaudably, the foreign and interior ministries approved the resettlement of 27 migrants.
Firstly, the president of the Community of Sant’Egidio, Luca Maria Negro, FCEI president, and Manuela Vinay, director of the Waldensian 8×1,000 office, warmly welcomed them. Representatives from the interior and foreign ministries were also present.
Secondly, Associations, parishes, communities, and families in different Italian regions will manage and support the new arrivals.
In addition, there were specific actions to complete the integration process. To begin, Italian language lessons will be offered to all adult migrants. Similarly, all children will be enrolled in school. Finally, once the adults receive refugee status, they will be offered job placements.
Recommendation
Other countries in Europe, Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Ocieania should consider emulating this model to support refugees. Churches, civil societies, and philanthropists could support refugees in this way too. This can be by contributing as an organ or by partnering with other existing communities like this.
Governments should also collaborate by providing legal procedures that support the safety and security of these refugees. Partaking in the resettlement process is a lengthy process that requires global attention and practical engagement by everyone.
Check out here to read about the efforts made by other countries to support and resettle refugees.
