| 9 October 2007 On 9-10 October, the team of international experts commissioned to carry out a study on local integration of refugees in Belarus, Moldova and Ukraine within the framework of the Soderkoping process presented their findings at the seminar in Gomel, Belarus. The study on local integration of refugees in Belarus, Moldova and Ukraine was launched in May and ended in September. It aimed to develop a strategic framework for local integration of refugees in the three countries. While refugees are granted basic social and economic rights under respective national legislation, several gaps have been identified in terms of insufficient harmonisation in the legislative framework, lack of a comprehensive national integration strategy and special programs aimed at socio-cultural integration of refugees. The results delivered at the seminar provided an in-depth look at the obstacles of refugees’ integration. Practical recommendations have been formulated on how to overcome obstacles taking into account the local and socio-economic conditions in the region and countries concerned, with realistic prospects and recommendations for policy development for governments, international organizations, donor communities in respect of local integration practices. For the purpose of this study, an inter-ministerial group was established in Belarus, Moldova and Ukraine to analyse obstacles and suggest solutions for integration of refugees. All actors who were involved in carrying out of the study, attended the seminar. The findings and recommendations put forward in the study will be available soon.
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