The aim of the Action is to exchange information and best practices with Mediterranean countries and Member States of the European Union (EU), and particularly their Local Authorities, which face similar challenges in respect to the management and the integration of Third Country Nationals in their local communities.

The project developed an Origin Guide, addressed to migrants living in Cyprus and who were about to return to their country of origin. The target countries were Syria, Sri Lanka, Philippines, Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. The primary objective of the guides is to help migrants, returning to their country of origin, to re-integrate to their local society and labour market.

The project investigated the perceptions and attitudes of Cypriot students in primary and secondary schools with respect to immigrants (Third Country Nationals). The research included a survey among 1250 students, interviews and focus groups. A set of recommendations were prepared regarding educational policies and integration procedures in public schools.

The Mediterranean Migration Network (MMN) was established within the framework of the project “Establishment of multilateral networks with countries in the Mediterranean region” (Action E2, European Integration Fund for Third Country Nationals, Annual Programme 2012). The project was co-funded by the European Integration Fund for Third Country Nationals (95%) and the Republic of Cyprus (5%). The Mediterranean Migration Network currently has more than 200 active members collaborating and exchanging ideas on issues and initiates concerning migration and integration.

The Cyprus Information Guide was developed to provides general information on Cyprus and is addressed to new migrants coming in the country. It is envisioned to have positive impact on the integration process of the migrants and help them learn basic aspects of local culture and history. The Guide will help migrants to understand their rights and responsibilities and identify opportunities for employment, access to education, health care, social security and increase their civic engagement.

This research project collected and analysed the views, perceptions of more than 1300 educators from the Cyprus Educational System. Recommendations for policy and practice were developed to inform relevant upcoming policies and initiatives of the Republic of Cyprus.

The Mediterranean Migration Network (MMN) held its annual International Conference, on Friday June 20th,2014, at the University of Nicosia, under the general title “Migration and Integration: the role of social services”.  The conference aimed at presenting the role of social services as an effective integration medium for migrants in the local EU communities, and to discuss the challenges the services face in in fulfilling this role. Participants in the conference included representatives from public services, embassies, civil society organizations, academics, international organizations and agencies, and the general public.

The Mediterranean Migration Network kick off meeting took place in the University on Nicosia, 10-11 March 2014 in Nicosia, Cyprus.The meeting was organized by CARDET with the cooperation of INNOVADE.