The city of Bratislava has officially approved the first comprehensive strategy for the integration of people with foreign origins. The document, developed by the city hall together with the Centre for Ethnic and Cultural Research, aims to move away from temporary measures and create stable conditions for the lives of foreigners, of whom there are already about 100,000 in the capital.
Key Directions of the Strategy
Previously, the city's integration measures often took the form of urgent crisis response (like the operation of a large assistance center on Bottova Street). The new strategy goes beyond emergency management. Its main goal is to offer foreigners long-term support and coordinate all city services.
The document covers all areas of life that people face after moving to Bratislava:
Education and Youth: supporting children of foreigners in schools and creating conditions for their development.
Access to Services: simplifying access to information about housing, healthcare, and social assistance.
Employment: helping with job searching and supporting entrepreneurial initiatives.
Culture and Community: developing city connections and supporting joint activities for better understanding among residents.
Data Analysis: systematically collecting information on community needs for effective planning of future steps.
LOOM Centre as the Heart of Integration
The LOOM centre on Česká Street, which replaced the temporary refugee centre, is part of the new strategy. Unlike the previous format, LOOM is focused on all foreigners living in Bratislava, regardless of their country of origin. It provides consultations, legal assistance, and supports integration processes on an ongoing basis.
What's Next?
According to Dominika Nagyová, a representative of the Foreigners' Support Department, this strategic document is just the foundation. The city hall is currently working on the first Action Plan, which will contain specific steps and deadlines for implementation. The plan is expected to be introduced within this year. Not only the city government but also non-governmental organizations and district administrations of the city will be involved in its implementation.
The city's new approach shows that foreigners are officially considered an integral part of the capital's community, which should help increase the level of safety and social cohesion in Bratislava.
