European Union (EU) funds support helps ensure better living conditions and foster integration for people seeking asylum in Latvia!
For over ten years, the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs has been implementing EU-funded projects that provide a sense of security and a helping hand to asylum seekers in Latvia. By assisting people fleeing war or hardship, we are building a more inclusive society.
The support from EU funds goes far beyond mere numbers. Each euro is like an inspirational story, helping to rebuild the lives of those who have lost everything. EU funding acts as a bridge, leading these individuals from a painful past towards a better future.
Health Comes First
We understand how essential it is to ensure quality healthcare. With the support of the EU funds, we established medical offices in the asylum seeker accommodation centers in Mucenieki and Liepna. These offices are staffed by doctors and nurses who provide medical assistance. Over time, this service has proven its value, and its maintenance is now covered by the state budget. This is an excellent example of the synergy between EU support and the national budget, where initial investments create sustainable and permanent solutions.
Special attention is given to women and children, ensuring psychological consultations, medication, as well as supplies for newborn care, such as diapers and formula. Nurses also provide advice to new mothers to help them learn baby care skills.
Education: The Path to Full Integration
Education is one of the main keys to successful integration into society. Therefore, we ensure that children of asylum seekers can attend school by providing them with school supplies, backpacks, and covering meal costs. In Mucenieki, a nanny (who is a preschool teacher) is also available, helping children acquire their first knowledge. This allows parents to take care of personal matters during that time—attend doctor's appointments, participate in personal interviews, or address issues related to the asylum procedure.
Small but Important Cornerstones of Support
In addition to health and education, we also take care of practical, everyday matters to ease the daily lives of asylum seekers. We use EU funds to provide food and hygiene kits, dishes, bedding, and household goods. This is particularly vital considering the very small financial support provided by the state (€3 per day).
To enable asylum seekers to travel to doctors and institutions, we issue public transport tickets. At the Liepna centre, joint sports activities have even been established, where asylum seekers can play football with local residents, thus fostering stronger ties.
Crucial investment by the EU
This inspirational story testifies to the invaluable nature of EU funds support! It helps ensure that asylum seekers receive not only basic needs but also humane and dignified support, which allows them to integrate more easily into society and rebuild their lives. This assistance demonstrates the values of the European Union—solidarity, humanism, and support for those most in need. Thank you for this help, which makes our society better and more inclusive!
Photo: Paula Čurkste, LETA
