United in their support of the millions of people fleeing Ukraine, citizens-led and other local initiatives, especially from neighbouring countries, have led the way in emergency solidarity actions. However, this approach often lacks coordinated and sustainable strategies that ensure the reception of refugees from a human perspective. Also, it delegates citizens an enormous responsibility that primarily belongs to the public sector. What will happen when the goodwill of local communities is not enough to tackle the many complex issues a humanitarian crisis like this causes? Who will be held responsible at the end of the day?
To address these questions, participants in the 3rd EPIC webinar, held on April 13, discussed how human-based narratives and strategies should be placed at the centre of integration strategies.