Melissa Network: Successful responses to unique migrant needs

Over the last three years, SRT grantee partner Melissa Network of Migrant Women in Greece has expanded its efforts to address the unique and urgent needs of Afghan and Ukrainian women and their families fleeing conflict and instability. The organisation, an NGO established for and by migrant and refugee women, has provided thousands of people with vital resources, support, and a community.

Melissa Network reacted immediately to the deterioration of the security situation in Afghanistan in 2021 after the fall of Kabul to the Taliban, and subsequently played a leading role in evacuating dozens of women at risk under the new regime, along with their families. During this time, they coordinated with women in Kabul and with host governments along the route to Greece. Their advocacy with the Greek authorities succeeded in opening a legal pathway for the reception of prominent Afghan activists, parliamentarians, judges, journalists, artists, and scientists. The organisation also collaborated closely with the Canadian government to ensure that several particularly vulnerable Afghan families were relocated to Canada.

Once the women and their families arrived in Greece, Melissa Network provided tailored support in recognition of the distinct cultural and social challenges faced by Afghan women leaders. This included mental health support, leadership and vocational training, and language classes; which was all designed to help the Afghan women maintain their advocacy efforts while integrating into their new society.

When Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Melissa Network again reacted quickly. For Ukrainian women and their children, Melissa Network provided legal assistance, psychosocial support, and child-centered services. In parallel, the organisation enabled the Ukrainian community already settled in Greece to take the lead in responding to the crisis. This innovative approach created a counter-narrative of solidarity from the Ukrainian community in Greece.

Importantly, Melissa Network also helped women from both countries establish respective organisations in Greece, drawing from its own experience as a community-based group. The Afghan Women Parliamentarians & Leaders Network was the first women-led political opposition initiative in exile, since the Taliban takeover. Established in Greece, it now continues to operate through its new office in Canada. In Ottawa in 2023, an advocacy event was launched with a message from the Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and aimed to promote the rights of Afghan women on education, work, and freedom. The event was attended by government ministers, international foundations, academics, activists and media.

Meanwhile, the Association of the Ukrainian Diaspora in Greece has allowed the Ukrainian migrant community in Greece to become actively engaged in the reception and integration of Ukrainian refugees, sustaining strong links with their own culture. This initiative is now an example of a solid response to refugee needs, showcased in other countries hosting Ukrainian refugees, such as the Czech Republic.