Project period: January 2024 – December 2024

Project donor: The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR)

Project budget: 125 426€

Since the full-scale war in Ukraine and the arrival of Ukrainian refugees, Estonia has transformed from one of the European countries with the lowest number of refugees to one of the largest. This poses significant challenges for Estonia’s education and healthcare systems, labour market, and integration system.

The project “Bridges of Belonging: Refugee Inclusion through Language Learning, Art Therapy, and Integration Events” aims to improve the integration of refugees, particularly Ukrainian refugees, into Estonian society through language courses, art therapy, and community events. As part of the project, we will organise art therapy sessions for 150 children to support their mental well-being and adjustment to a new environment. Art therapy is an effective method for supporting children’s mental health, offering them creative ways to express and process their emotions. 

We will also offer Estonian language courses to 40 Ukrainian teachers to improve their job prospects and integration into the Estonian education system. Additionally, we will conduct training for 100 Estonian educators to raise awareness of refugee-related issues and provide practical guidance for supporting students dealing with trauma. Through community events, we aim to increase interaction between refugees and local residents, reducing prejudices and fears.

Contact:
Meelis Niine
meelis@mondo.org.ee