Migration, social cohesion, economic integration and governance

Contexte

The project titled Migration, social cohesion, economic integration, and governance, known as "CONVIVE", addresses the increasing migration flows to Costa Rica, particularly of Nicaraguan nationals, in the context of the ongoing sociopolitical crisis in their country of origin. It aligns with the "Horizon 2030" Strategy of Luxembourg Cooperation and was designed through a participatory process involving public institutions, civil society, and migrants themselves.

Costa Rica offers several strengths, including a solid legal framework for the protection of migrants and refugees, structured public policies, and strong institutional experience. However, challenges remain: bureaucratic inefficiencies, insufficient inter-institutional coordination, lack of access to information, limited resources, and inequalities in access to services.

Objectives and vision of change

The overall objective of the project aims to improve the quality of life and promote the socioeconomic integration of migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers in Costa Rica. The specific objective is to contribute to this integration by simplifying administrative procedures and optimising public services.

The expected results are:

• improved legal and administrative processes for integration and regularisation;
• strengthened economic integration through employability and entrepreneurship;
• promotion of social inclusion and respect for human rights of the target population;
• enhanced governance and administrative services for this population.

The project adopts a results-based management approach, focusing on sustainable and measurable social change. It integrates cross-cutting principles such as human rights, gender equality, intersectionality and environmental sustainability. Implementation is based on technical and financial cooperation.

Beneficiaries

Final beneficiaries include migrants, refugees, asylum seekers, and individuals at risk of statelessness, with a goal of 65% women beneficiaries.

Intermediate beneficiaries include public officials, civil society organisations, NGOs, and host communities. Special attention is given to vulnerable groups, particularly LGBTIQ+ individuals and women survivors of gender-based violence.

Target geographic area

The project has national coverage, with a focus on two priority regions:
•    Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM – San José and surroundings), the country’s main urban and economic center;
•    Huetar Norte region, a border area with Nicaragua.

Stakeholders

Main partners of the project will be the General directorate of migration and foreigners as well as the Ministry of Labour and Social Security and different actors from civil society.