The main objective of the ‘Time for Inclusion’ project is to reduce discrimination against three target groups: young people on the grounds of their age, people with intellectual disabilities, often referred to as ‘eternal children’, who face discrimination on the grounds of disability; and people who face prejudice based on their ethnic origin. The project aims to ensure equal opportunities for these groups by promoting respectful treatment and social integration.
During the project, activities will be carried out in five regions of Latvia to foster mutual cooperation and communication between employees and employers, as well as an understanding of young people’s abilities and the need to integrate them into the labour market. As part of these activities, young people will also have the opportunity to receive career guidance and to develop and improve their skills so that they can engage more successfully in the labour market. Various activities will also be organised to promote inclusion in everyday activities and events – in collaboration with Latvian football champions FC RFS, a football activity will be organised, as well as visits to matches.
In addition, special attention will be paid to young people – international students who face daily discrimination on the grounds of their ethnic and racial background, not only in the labour market but also in their everyday lives. A ‘safe space’ will be provided, which will be a well-equipped room where representatives of discriminated-against groups can spend time on a daily basis, build relationships and networks, carry out various activities to promote cultural understanding and integration in Latvia, reduce discrimination and prejudice, and foster their own personal development. This space will offer various forms of information and support to foster an understanding of Latvia and the opportunities available in the labour market and in everyday life, thereby reducing discrimination and promoting greater access to opportunities.
The total funding for the project is EUR 44,998.80, with 85 per cent funded by the European Social Fund Plus, amounting to 38,248.98 EUR, and 15 per cent co-financed from the state budget, amounting to 6,749.82 EUR.
The project will run for 13 months, from 20 January 2025 to 28 February 2026.