To promote regional security and strengthen cooperation with the non-governmental sector and local authorities, representatives from the Society Integration Foundation (SIF) and the One-Stop-Agency team conducted a working visit to Liepāja on May 8th.
The primary objective of the visit was to identify the current needs of local communities and to refine support mechanisms implemented with the financial backing of European Union funds. Kristīne Kļukoviča, Director of the SIF Social Cohesion Program Coordination Department, along with a team of experts, met with Liepāja’s most active non-governmental organizations (NGOs) – the "JaunLiepāja Neighborhood Association" and the "House of Hope / Karosta Kids" association.
Practical Support as a Foundation for Security
Discussions with the NGOs concluded that a sense of public safety and belonging is closely linked to an understandable and accessible service system. Residents do not require a complex network of institutions; rather, they need a clear, human-centered pathway to social inclusion and assistance.
The One-Stop-Agency, established with the support of the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF), provides precisely this type of practical daily assistance:
State language acquisition;
Support for entering the labor market;
Addressing educational matters;
Assistance with administrative documentation;
Promoting participation in local community activities.
The Role of NGOs: The First Line of Response
During the visit, the critical role of NGOs in creating a secure environment was emphasized. Frequently, non-governmental organizations are the first to identify an individual's difficulties or potential risks within the integration process. The focus on community-based activities helps residents feel a sense of belonging and protection within their city.
At the conclusion of the day, the SIF delegation met with representatives of the Liepāja City Municipality. The parties agreed on fostering even closer synergy in community strengthening, acknowledging that social cohesion does not occur spontaneously—it is the result of purposeful action, dialogue, and collaborative effort.
"Cohesion arises when we do not only speak but actively engage and work together. Step by step – from conversation to action," the visit participants emphasized.
About the Project:
This activity was implemented within the framework of the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund for the 2021–2027 programming period. Managing Authority: Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Latvia. Delegated Authority for Integration: Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Latvia.
