Reacting to Growing Immigration - Strengthening social inclusion of Estonian migrant families in Finland and Estonia

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Different statistics show that in 2014 up to 65 000 Estonians were living in Finland, a vast majority of them being work-related migrants. This type of migration from Estonia to Finland has grown rapidly in the last 5-10 years, causing a variety of social problems (especially among families where one or both parents have moved) that haven’t been properly addressed in either of the countries. According to studies these issues include social exclusion, broken families, depression etc., which in turn cause unhealthy and broken communities. This is the challenge we want to tackle. The general objective of the REGI project is to support Estonian migrant families that for work-related reasons are either divided between Estonia and Finland or that have moved to Finland. As families are cornerstones of communities we expect to build stronger and healthier communities and societies both in Finland and in Estonia. The project takes a “hands-on” approach in addressing these issues and preventing problems relating to it. Social problems will be resolved and prevented by developing supportive group activities and social networks for Estonian migrants and families in both countries and training professionals to understand the circumstances in both countries and noticing challenges the families are facing. The common challenge of divided families is viewed from perspectives of both countries and thus handled as a whole. The project’s emphasis lies heavily on preventative and community-based work. Cross-border cooperation is vital for successful execution of the project since the families of migrant workers are divided between two countries and they have to be addressed across borders. In order to get comprehensive understanding on the challenges and enhance wellbeing of Estonian migrant workers in Finland and support their families we need to involve both countries in the developmental work.

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