Methodology used in the study (April 2016 – today): case studies in three cities, mapping of the organisation landscape and networks, interviews and participatory observation
Result 1: New self-centred, flexible forms of engagement
The desire for flexible time management increases, ad hoc willingness also increases, rigid structures and permanent positions are more likely to be rejected. The majority of volunteers, however, exhibit various forms of self-commitment. Although flexible time management is important for the volunteers, it is just as important for them to demonstrate a certain reliability and to be a fixed point of reference in the usually unstructured everyday life of the fugitives.
Result 2: Political and apolitical engagement
On a local level, political opinions and discussions in reference to government’s controversial refugee policy coexist with a moral practical engagement in one’s own municipality. Personal opinions on national politics form the basis, but do not determine, immediate local actions.
Result 3: The dynamic of personal relations
In current refugee assistance, good relationships with other persons and groups are particularly relevant. An extensive network of various points in the city provide the opportunity to obtain derogations and special agreements for individual cases. The focus is on individual cases and on the optimal solving of the situation on the spot. On the national and international level, a fight for the rights of the refugees is rare.
Result 4: Integration as a cross-sectional topic on the regional level
Various actors meet at round tables at eye level; the value that a person can contribute to solving problems weighs more than the person’s position. Everyone, whether integrated into the local structures or not, can participate in the networks. The management of the networks does not have to lie with the municipality. The focus is on solving problems rather than on discussing structures and functions.
Development, evaluation and sustainable spreading of self-learning materials for refugees in first reception centres.
Project partners
Regional first reception centre „Patrick-Henry-Village“ in Heidelberg
VHS Heidelberg
Preliminary results
- Self-learning material on five different topics that has already been evaluated as suitable for the target group.
- At the moment, the digital version of the self-learning materials are being developed.
