Switzerland supports European migration management with its second contribution to selected EU member states. Italy is particularly affected by irregular migration to Europe via the Balkans and the central Mediterranean due to its geographical location. A project of the Zurich University of Teacher Education aims to promote the integration of unaccompanied minor asylum seekers in Italy.
Migration situation in Italy
At the end of 2024, there were over 19,000 unaccompanied minor asylum seekers (UMAs) in Italy, 12% of whom were girls. UMAs are particularly vulnerable and have their own specific needs. The integration of these children and young people is the responsibility of the reception structures in the Italian municipalities. Where resources are limited, it is a challenge to provide the best possible support to UMAs.
Project aims
The project aims to improve the integration of UMAs in Italy. The e-learning course Children of Refugees in Education CORE, developed by the Zurich University of Teacher Education (PHZH), is an easily accessible tool designed to facilitate work with refugee children and young people. The modular course can be used flexibly and is designed to help carers support UMAs in developing their life skills, thereby promoting their personal development and facilitating their (professional) integration. The project is financed by the Swiss Expertise and Partnership Fund (SEPF) of the second Swiss contribution; its aim is to channel Swiss expertise to its partner countries in order to promote exchanges in the long term.
Country / region |
Topic |
Period |
Budget |
Italy |
Support for the integration of unaccompanied minor asylum seekers |
1 January 2025 – 31 December 2027 |
CHF 438,940 |
Project activities
The PHZH trains peer educators to instruct other teachers, educators and social workers in the use of the CORE e-learning course. In addition to this training, local expertise in the care of UMAs will be strengthened through exchanges with Italian specialists in this area (peer learning) and with Swiss experts. CORE takes an active learning approach, supporting children and young people to identify their needs and aspirations for the future, to develop confidence in their own abilities and to be proactive. By working with UMAs not only on an individual basis but also in groups, they are able to acquire social skills that are important for their professional integration.
Department responsible
Federal Department of Justice and Police (FDJP) / State Secretariat for Migration (SEM)
