Immigrant Heritage Month and World Refugee Day: A Reflection on Consultations at the Lisbon Project

by Monica Pinheiro, Head of People and Culture at Global Citizen Solutions

June is more commonly known for Pride Month, but it is also a time to celebrate Immigrant Heritage Month, with World Refugee Day taking place on June 20th. The UNHCR just revealed in its 2023 Global Trends that at the end of 2023 there were 117.3 million forced displaced people worldwide, as a result of persecution, conflict, violence, human rights violations or events seriously disturbing public order.??

Keeping this important date and information in mind, our team at Global Citizen Solutions had the privilege of devoting our time and expertise to the https://www.dhirubhai.net/company/lisbonprojectassociation/, an organization dedicated to supporting migrants and refugees in Portugal. As specialists in global mobility and relocation, we felt compelled to share our insights to honor those who are forced to move due to circumstances beyond their control. This experience was deeply moving and underscored the vital importance of our work.?

On 21st June, we spent an entire afternoon supporting Lisbon Project Members through meetings. These conversations covered a wide range of topics, from rental market to CV editing, job opportunities, and immigration and refugee status queries. I personally had the chance to have an open talk on the employment framework in Portugal, providing what I believe to be essential information to help migrants manage expectations and navigate the local job market.?

A range of different skills between Global Citizen Solutions’ and Goldcrest Buyers Agency’s network came on board to provide support on the day. ?The team included client service representatives, migration consultants, copywriters, editors and lawyers, all dedicating themselves to addressing the varied and complex needs of the migrants we met. We helped clarify bureaucratic procedures, translated documents, and provided guidance on the appropriate authorities to contact in each case.?

We encountered many stories of resilience and determination. Individuals facing challenges such as homologating certificates, lacking sufficient documentation, finding accommodation or a job. Stories like the ones we heard on Friday highlight the critical need for streamlined certification processes for professions in short supply. The Portuguese government has an opportunity to address professional shortages by supporting the integration of skilled migrants.?

Laura Madrid Sartoretto, Research Lead at Global Citizen Solutions Intelligence Unit dedicated time to interviewing and learning more about the different backgrounds of the individuals who attended the Insight Hub at the Lisbon Project. “The majority of individuals we interviewed at the Lisbon Project were in similar situations. Over 70% were skilled workers with either a bachelor's degree or technical background, many with years of experience in their fields. More than 80% spoke at least two languages, including English or French. Additionally, 80% were between the ages of 18 and 44, representing a valuable asset to the Portuguese economy.” explains Sartoretto.??

As we celebrated another International Refugee Day with our dear friends from the Lisbon Project, we reflected on the new measures announced in June 2024. We are confident that these measures mark a new era in Portugal, where integration is given as much importance as regularization . By providing access to education and, residency for skilled migrants, Portugal can leverage their talents and facilitate their integration into the local community.?

At Global Citizen Solutions, we believe in safe, informed, and beneficial global mobility for all parties. We advocate daily for fruitful and sensible migration policies. The motivations that lead someone to change countries must be listened to and treated with dignity. A change of this magnitude is a landmark in their lives, and it is our duty to act accordingly.?

We are deeply grateful to the Lisbon Project for opening their doors to us and allowing us to contribute our expertise. We met incredible people with inspiring stories, and we are more committed than ever to supporting those seeking safety and a new beginning in Portugal.