Starting from Zero in Paris: How NGOs and Social Initiative Projects have been Assisting Refugees and Asylum Seekers in France, 2015 to the Present, Poster 41

In 2015, Europe saw an influx of refugees on a scale that had not been seen since the Second World War. Although some countries shut their borders, others responded by accepting and assisting newcomers. In particular, NGOs led... [ view full abstract ]

In 2015, Europe saw an influx of refugees on a scale that had not been seen since the Second World War. Although some countries shut their borders, others responded by accepting and assisting newcomers. In particular, NGOs led the way providing information, legal advice and housing. At the same time, social initiatives emerged to address more specific long-term needs. This study looks at the third sector response in Paris, France since 2015 to assist refugees and asylum seekers. Drawing primarily on fieldwork consisting of interviews with refugees and asylum seekers as well as NGO and social initiative project directors, I examine how NGOs and social initiatives have responded to the crisis, how this response is new or different from past initiatives and how effective this work has been in addressing newcomers' needs.  The third sector has been most effective at an individual and community level, while somewhat restricted and less impactful at a governmental level. NGOs and social initiatives have not only supplemented the governmental response to the crisis but have reacted in innovative ways to address more specific needs aimed at allowing for a more sustainable long-term integration. Ultimately, while the third sector has been effective and impactful in its work, it is hindered by a number of restrictions at a governmental level. Until the government fully supports and aligns with the values of this work, these initiatives will not be able to reach their full potential.