Selected
Lead Partner: IOM Greece – International Organization for Migration
Co-Partner: Hero Norge AS
Project Geographical Location: Athens, Greece
Maximum project grant amount: € 15.000
Duration: April 2024 – August 2024
This project aimed to enhance Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) through knowledge-sharing between Greece and Norway. Key activities included a study visit by HERO Norge to Athens (July 3–5, 2024), the development of a joint recommendations paper, and a closing workshop.
Study visit highlights:
Day 1: The delegation toured IOM Athens’ AVRR operations, focusing on protecting vulnerable groups. Norwegian participants gained insight into the operational framework, with particular appreciation for sessions on IOM’s Due Diligence Process and Return Counselling Toolkit.
Day 2: Meetings with the Ministry of Migration and Asylum (MoMA) deepened understanding of Greece’s migration policies. Delegates also visited the Open Center for Applicants of Voluntary Return (OCAVRR), gaining practical insights into voluntary return management.
Day 3: At Athens International Airport, delegates observed departure assistance procedures, ensuring a smooth return process. Reflections on Greece’s protection mechanisms and the OCAVRR model sparked discussions on adapting similar approaches in Norway.
The visit strengthened ties between Greek and Norwegian authorities, establishing stable communication channels and fostering a shared commitment to humane voluntary returns. IOM Greece showcased best practices, the Ministry of Migration and Asylum provided valuable policy insights, and Norwegian partners expressed interest in adapting elements of the OCAVRR model to their own context.
A joint recommendations paper consolidated key lessons and best practices, serving as a resource for improving AVRR processes. The project concluded with a hybrid workshop where stakeholders from both countries reviewed knowledge gained, discussed best practices, and explored ways to enhance Norway’s AVRR framework.
Lessons Learned:
What worked:
- Effective knowledge transfer through best practice exchanges and practical demonstrations.
- Strong collaboration, with open dialogue fostering engagement and cooperation.
Challenges:
- Time constraints limited in-depth exploration of case-specific examples and best practices for ensuring safe returns.
By facilitating structured knowledge exchange and collaboration, the project contributed to refining AVRR strategies, strengthening bilateral cooperation, and enhancing voluntary return processes in Norway.
