Working together for the rights of migrants
For many years, AWO International has successfully collaborated with its partner organizations OCDIH in Honduras and ACOMUMSAM in Guatemala. Both organizations are committed to providing comprehensive support to migrants – ranging from legal and psychosocial assistance to humanitarian aid and advocacy work. The project aims to raise awareness among policymakers at the local, regional, and national levels and hold them accountable to make migration more equitable. A key focus is on protecting women from gender-based violence. At the same time, efforts are being made to improve the social and economic prospects of young people, offering them sustainable opportunities for the future.
Educational opportunities for returnees in Honduras
To create future prospects for youth and young adults, we offer training opportunities to returning migrants in Honduras. These programmes help them build sustainable livelihoods in their home communities. Depending on their interests, teenagers and young adults can receive vocational training in various trades. Once they have completed their training, our partners provide them with the equipment they need to start a small business.
I was arrested at the border back then and sent back to Honduras. The support I later received from the Migration Committee, OCDIH, and AWO International was fundamental in rebuilding my life. Not only did I receive help myself, but I was also able to assist others in similar situations.
Cindy Rosibel P., 28 years old, Deputy Chairperson of the Migration Committee of San Nicolas, Copán, Honduras
Solidarity families in Guatemala
In Guatemala, solidarity families provide direct support to migrants in transit. Our partner ACOMUMSAM supports 35 families who provide shelter, food and community-based health care to migrants on their journey. The route through Petén is one of the most used migration routes in Central America. With the help of these solidarity families, migrants find a place to rest and regain their strength. They also receive information on safe migration routes before continuing their journey to Mexico or the United States.
Strengthening networks and advocacy
Together with our local partners, we strengthen the political advocacy of women's and youth networks and migration committees. Workshops are held to develop communication skills and encourage active participation. In addition, our partners organise local networking meetings where participants plan strategies to defend human rights in the context of migration. The overarching goal is clear: to empower women, youth, and other migrants to realize their life plans independently.
By working closely with local partner organisations and promoting networking, the project contributes to protecting the rights of migrants and improving their chances for a better future.
Training in handicrafts is opening up new prospects for returning migrants and is helping them to rebuild their lives in Honduras.
Workshops on human rights and communicating with decision-makers are held by the Migration Committee.
Close cooperation with local authorities is crucial to improving the living conditions of migrants in the long term.
Members of the Migration Committee visit former participants of training courses.
Projectinfo
| Place/Region | Guatemala: Petén (La Libertad , Las cruces und Sayaxché) & Honduras: Copán (San Nicolás und Forida), Cortés (Potrerillos y San Antonio) |
|---|---|
| Partner | Organismo Cristiano de Desarrollo Integral de Honduras - OCDIH (www.ocdih.org) |
| Activities |
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| Duration | January 2025 - December 2027 |
| Budget | EUR 562,500 |
| Sponsor | (BMZ) Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development / Bundesministerium für wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit |
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