The Greek Forum of Refugees (GFR) is a non-profit association established in Athens in 2012.
Comprised of refugee and migrant communities, individuals, and dedicated professionals, the organisation is committed to supporting and empowering asylum seekers, refugees, migrants, and stateless people.
The organisation serves as a reference point for both refugee/migrant communities and individuals, enabling them to collectively address their needs and concerns with the Greek state authorities and host society.
Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the World Upshift EMEA Forum, GFR Director, Yonous Muhammadi, said:
"Our aim is to address the diverse needs and concerns of our members in an organised manner, while advocating for a society that embraces inclusivity and solidarity. Thank you so much for reaching out to us and inviting us to become a partner of the World Upshift Movement."
The Greek Forum of Refugees was founded by refugees, with refugees, for refugees with the aim of acting as a bridge between refugees themselves and their new host society.
The main goal of the organisation is to facilitate the incorporation, integration and, above all, the inclusion of asylum seekers, refugees, first and second-generation migrants and stateless people in Greek and European society.
The GFR carries out various actions and activities guided by three main pillars:
1) Visibility and Rights Awareness: Representing the voices and experiences of refugees and migrants at national and European levels, enhancing visibility, and raising awareness about their rights and challenges.
2) Self-Advocacy and Empowerment: Strengthening the capacity and agency of refugee and migrant communities to address their own needs, advocate for their rights, and establish self-advocacy.
3) Integration and Participation: Promoting social and political integration of refugees and migrants while actively involving them in decision-making processes that impact their lives, fostering their active participation.
Yonous went on to explain that the strategic goal of the GFR is "to ensure the inclusion of refugees in our procedures and processes. We recognises refugees as fellow citizens with rights and obligations, encouraging their active involvement in public affairs".
The GFR supports their participation in decision-making forums and ensures their active engagement in social matters. GFR's core philosophy is committing to the principles of non-discrimination, mutual respect, and acceptance of every different identity.
The organisation aspires to contribute in the best possible way, in order to further the democratisation and promote harmonious coexistence in both Greek and European society.
The GFR has ten years of experience in empowering migrant and refugee communities thanks to its mediator role among Third Country Nationals (TCNs) residing in Greece and institutions at a national and local level.
GFR also encourages a grass-root approach, having active involvement at the refugee reception centres mapping and recording the problems, challenges and vulnerabilities the people face.
Some of our crises response activities include; Information and raising awareness, provision of medicine, food boxes and referring them to services provided by other NGOs and authorities.
Regarding GFR’s action related to the coordination and participation in projects, it has already coordinated an Asylum,. Migration and Integration Fund project ( AMIF project) and partnered with another.
The organisation has participated in the Horizon Project So-Close (Enhancing Social Cohesion through sharing the Cultural Heritage of Forced Migration).
Moreover, GFR is the main partner in organising and managing Integration Councils of Municipalities in various cities all over Greece.
These councils serve as platforms to foster communication and interaction between communities, authorities and the wider public.
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