This weekend has marked the completion of my first week at the International Rescue Committee in Greece, which provides reception and integration support to refugees and asylum seekers through various social, economic, psychological, and legal channels. In this Laidlaw summer, I will be working with a regional team throughout the European Union in advocating for the rights of asylum seekers and refugees. Our particular focus as an organization is access to territory, fair asylum procedures, adequate reception conditions, protection services, information access, and integration support. While the offices on the islands focus more on reception services like immediate psychological and relocation support, the Athens office -- where I am -- works with asylum seekers in the integration phase, supporting their livelihood and wellbeing in the long-term resettlement process. 

In my capacity as Advocacy Intern, I spent my first days compiling a report of ongoing changes in migration trends in Greece, as well as the policy response from Greek government. These updates are vital in shaping the approach to ongoing projects, which I will have the opportunity to join in the coming weeks. There are two main projects I will be working on with the EU team, both to address the issue of unaccompanied children. In these projects, the IRC will conduct roundtable discussions with unaccompanied children in Greece and other European countries, as well as community members such as teachers and caretakers. These conversations will inform our understanding of the most pressing issues unaccompanied children face during the asylum and integration process. With that information, we will hold meetings with EU policymakers to advocate for legal changes to support the wellbeing of this highly vulnerable population. 

I am feeling extremely enthusiastic about the potential of these projects, while simultaneously struggling with the harsh realities of working at an NGO during this political era. As I arrived to the IRC, dozens of other employees were leaving -- unable to stay due to massive funding cuts. While the projects I am working on are just beginning, dozens of other programs have been shut down or canceled in the last several months because there is not enough money to keep them open. These are vital services that asylum seekers need to survive and thrive, and it is heartbreaking to watch so many of them be closed. Nevertheless, I am glad to be joining the IRC to support in whatever capacity I can, although it is for a short time. Additionally, do to the short timeline of my position, I will likely not see the end of the projects I work on here, but I am honored to play a role in their beginning. I am so excited to see what comes next, and to continue exploring Greece!