Problem addressed

The war in Ukraine has forced millions of people to seek refuge across Europe, including in Bulgaria and Romania. While emergency responses have provided short-term assistance, long-term social inclusion remains a major challenge. Refugees often face language barriers, cultural differences, limited access to education and employment, and social isolation. At the same time, local communities and institutions frequently lack the knowledge, tools, and structured frameworks needed to support meaningful integration. The project addresses the need to build local capacity, foster collaboration between refugees and host societies, and create innovative, sustainable pathways for inclusion and participation.

Innovative solution

COEXIST introduces a research-driven and community-based approach to refugee inclusion, combining academic expertise with grassroots action. The University of Wroclaw (Poland) plays a central role in designing and testing innovative methodologies for social inclusion, mentorship, and community engagement. These methods are grounded in evidence-based research and adapted to the specific social contexts of Bulgaria and Romania. By merging scientific analysis with local experience, the project generates practical tools and learning models that strengthen the capacity of local actors to support refugees effectively. This collaboration between academia and civil society creates a new framework for social innovation—scalable, inclusive, and transferable across Europe.

Key results and benefits

COEXIST strengthens local communities’ ability to support the social inclusion of Ukrainian refugees through innovation, mentoring, and cross-sector collaboration. The project develops evidence-based methodologies led by the University of Wroclaw, enhancing the quality and effectiveness of inclusion practices. Among its main results are:

• creation of a research-informed model for community-driven refugee inclusion;
• training of local mentors to guide integration processes;
• establishment of collaborative networks between NGOs, local authorities, and educational institutions;
• increased awareness and empathy within host communities;
• promotion of social entrepreneurship as a tool for empowerment and sustainability.
  The project contributes to more cohesive, resilient, and inclusive societies while providing a replicable framework for European cooperation.

Potential for mainstreaming

COEXIST provides a practical and research-based model that can be easily integrated into local, national, and European strategies for refugee inclusion and community development. The project’s methodologies—co-created by the University of Wroclaw and local partners—offer adaptable tools for policymakers, educators, and NGOs to design inclusive programmes grounded in social innovation. Its mentorship framework, participatory approach, and emphasis on community empowerment can be mainstreamed within public social policies, adult education, and social economy initiatives. By bridging academia and practice, COEXIST contributes to shaping evidence-based solutions that can inform future EU cohesion and migration policies, ensuring long-term impact and scalability across different contexts.