IOM Lithuania project RISE has released an assessment report, providing detailed insights on community sponsorship models in Belgium, Italy and Lithuania. The report also outlines a set of recommendations, drawing from the experiences of volunteers, migrants, and key stakeholders highlighting key challenges and good practices in the field of migrant integration. 

The report revealed insights that can be applied in NGOs and are relevant for community supporters. Key recommendations emphasize improving access to housing, training of volunteers and more effective processes for connecting sponsors and migrants. While each RISE country has taken different approaches, the findings highlight shared challenges and opportunities in housing, integration, and public engagement. 

Lithuania: Civic initiatives like Stiprūs kartu played a meaningful role in the initial response, offering housing and support. However, integration remains difficult due to high housing costs, limited governmental support, and public skepticism toward migration. Strengthening NGO-government collaboration and addressing policy gaps is very important. 

Belgium: Belgium is working on strengthening local partnerships and volunteer training which can enhance a long-term integration success.

Italy: Community sponsorship is well-developed, with organizations like SANT'EGIDIO, ARCI, Caritas, and FCEI playing a strong role. However, migrants still struggle with financial stability and language barriers. Expanding employment-focused programs and legal assistance is a key priority.  

Despite differences, Lithuania, Belgium, and Italy share the same goal: ensuring successful integration of newcomers. To achieve this result, we need strong partnerships, better policies and public engagement. Community sponsorship is a powerful tool, which requires collaboration between institutions, NGO’s and local communities. 

About the RISE project: RISE (Reinforcing integration through sponsorship enhancement) aims to develop and improve community sponsorship programmes in Belgium, Italy and Lithuania. The project builds on the EU Action Plan for Integration and Inclusion 2021-2027, aiming to make housing accessibility and integration key elements in supporting migrants.  

The RISE project is funded by the European Union's Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (2021-2027).  

📄 Read the full report here.