The first adaptation programme in Estonia was developed in 2008 within the scope of New Home, the joint project of the Estonian Migration Fund and MTÜ Kodanikukoolitus. The project was financed by the European Social Fund. The adaptation programme for new immigrants was developed by MISA's predecessor (the Integration Foundation) and Tallinn University to facilitate the integration of citizens of third countries in the society of Estonia. The project was financed from the European Fund for the Integration of Third-Country Nationals (EIF), which was established as part of the general European Union programme Solidarity and Management of Migratory Flows.

 

The completed programme, which was piloted in three counties from April to November 2009, teaches civil studies, history, culture and language. Representatives of the Citizenship and Migration Board (the Police and Border Guard Board from 1 January 2010), the Labour Market Board, the Ministry of Education and Research, the Ministry of Social Affairs, the Estonian Association of Rural Local Governments and local governments contributed to the development of the programme.

 

The main components of adaptation programmes in European Union Member States are language studies, improvement of professional skills and civil studies. Adult new immigrants are included in the adaptation programme immediately after their arrival in their new home country so they can acquire the new skills and knowledge required to cope in society.

 

Adaptation programmes have been used in European Union Member States since the beginning of the 1990s. The average duration of adaptation programmes is 1 to 3 years. The programmes are often applied in close cooperation with local governments by, for instance, entering into contracts with local governments for financing and organisation of specific training and other activities aimed at new immigrants. 

 

The programme of support person services will also be developed in 2010 in addition to the adaptation programme. The programme offers the support service that is essential for becoming settled in the country and provides assistance in finding information, a place of residence, obtaining healthcare and social services, educational and vocational education and help with everyday activities such as banking, shopping, etc.

 

Ruslan Prohhorenko

Coordinator, Civic Education Unit

Telephone 659 9035