Workshops for migrants in the Reception center in Obrenovac

On the occasion of June 20, World Refugee Day, the mobile team of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) held several group sessions with migrants at the Reception Center in Obrenovac. Most of them come from war-torn countries, where riots are still raging, i.e. from Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq, Somalia and Eritrea.

The main topic of the sessions was the difficulties and challenges they have faced along their journey. Migrants openly exchanged experiences, talked about the fears they face, but also about personal strengths that help them overcome everyday life hardships. There was also talk about healthy and unhealthy mechanisms for overcoming difficulties and the importance of adequate management of emotional experiences.

Ali from Afghanistan recalled the time when he was forced to leave his country due to the unrest in his hometown.

“I often dream of my home. I miss it. But, unfortunately, living conditions are difficult and still uncertain. I would like one day, if possible, to return and continue my life where I am from. We all deserve a better and safer life wherever we are.”

The search for a new, better, safer life, far from all known, is one of the most difficult tests of human strength. That is why it is important that those who find themselves on that path know that they are not alone. It was also one of the goals of these workshops, which were realized within the EU Support to Migration Management in Serbia.