This action was submitted through the GFMD Mayors Mechanism Call to Local Action for Migrants and Refugees



Through this comprehensive programme of care for migrant persons and refugees, the municipality of Esteban Echeverría seeks to ensure the defence of the rights in an adverse socio-political context.



It works on three lines of action to enable the integration of migrants and refugees:

* Documentation (Identity, Residence, Citizenship)

* Territorial Strengthening

* Social and cultural integration activities



In conjunction with the National Directorate of Migration and the National Registry of Persons (RENAPER), the municipality offers workshops to promote the rights of migrants. Neighbours can carry out procedures to facilitate remote settlement, renewal of documentation and speed up the granting of residency to foreigners. Training workshops and advice on Law No. 25,871 on Migration and electoral participation are also provided.



To strengthen integration in host communities, the municipality promotes the development of social and cultural activities together with diaspora communities and organisations.



Impact:

* Work is carried out through the entities, to support the customs, experiences and festivities of each country. The aim is for the neighbours of Esteban Echeverría to share the customs of their country and feel "at home".

* There have been Bolivian entries, meetings of Paraguayan residents, Spanish paellas, rice cultivation, among other activities.



Lessons learnt:

We have seen an improvement in the:

* Inter-institutional and intercultural dialogue;

* Understanding of human rights;

* Migrant people visibility.