Greece
In 2018, by invitation of the UN International Office of Migration and in partnership with the Greek Health Department, we set off to help fill a void for health care services for refugee populations and begin applying our tenets of development – work holistic model, empowerment of community members, and increased collaboration with local government and NGOs – in this unique setting.
Consistent with our programmatic methodology, we started implementing the Medical Program to build trust and gather insight to develop a unique holistic model for refugees and asylum seekers aspiring for integration. In 2020, we established our own stable Polyclinic in Athens to provide free, consistent and broad health coverage to vulnerable populations. In addition, we are supporting refugee and migrant populations with financial education and economic development programs for their micro-enterprises through our Business Program.
- Providing access to health services to vulnerable populations in Athens
- Supporting refugee and migrant populations with financial education and economic development programs for their micro-enterprises in Athens
- 1 PolyClinic in the center of Athens
- 64.30% of migrant population at risk of poverty
- Established partnership with the Ministry of Health, other NGOs and Refugee and Migrant communities
- Addressing extreme health and economic disparity of refugees and asylum seekers and the Greek population
Safety
Volunteer safety will always be our absolute top priority. Global Brigades recently engaged Askari International Security, an industry leader in international risk assessment, to complete a comprehensive risk/safety assessment of all brigade operations. A full explanation of safety precautions and procedures can be found on our “Safety & Insurance” page.
Volunteer Safety in Greece
- Volunteers work at the Athens Clinic in the Center of the city. The Clinic, lodging facility and all places where Brigade activities take place, are secure environments for volunteers, patients and staff.
- We collaborate with the International Office of Migration, as well as several NGO actors to share and receive relevant security updates and make appropriate decisions to maintain the safety of all volunteers.