First Regional Meeting of the INVOLVIM Project in Fundão

The Municipality of Fundão convened the inaugural meeting of the INVOLVIM project on July 8, 2024, at the Concha Hall. This event marked the introduction of the project, which operates under the Interreg Europe program, emphasizing migrant integration and creating facilities to ease their adaptation. 

The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including CCDRC - Comissão de Coordenação e Desenvolvimento da Região Centro, which manages the Centro 2030 program at the regional level. Their presence highlighted the critical alignment between regional developmental strategies and European initiatives. 

A significant focus of the meeting was the discussion about the challenges posed by the increasing migrant population in Fundão, currently comprising 14% of the local populace from 72 different countries. The issues of language barriers in public services like healthcare and public administration were prominently addressed, with particular emphasis on the need for proficiency in English among public sector workers. 

Representatives from the Unidade de Saúde do Fundão and the local health sector's CRI emphasized the necessity of training programs to better equip public health service providers for effective communication and service delivery to migrants. 

The private sector's role, particularly that of TWINTEX, was highlighted in the cultural and religious integration of migrants. TWINTEX shared its experiences and strategies in fostering an inclusive work environment respectful of diverse cultural backgrounds. 

Educational and social service institutions, including the Centro de Formação Qualifica and the Centro de Migrações do Fundão, also contributed perspectives on integration pathways through training and community support, while Espaço Empresa discussed housing solutions available through its housing scheme. 

This meeting fostered a critical dialogue among various sector representatives, setting the stage for improved integration strategies that align with both local needs and broader European goals championed by the INVOLVIM project.