Defence for International Greece

DCI Greece is a dedicated Organization that stands by the side of the most vulnerable individuals, particularly those on the move. Our commitment extends to children, youth, vulnerable girls, young mothers, survivors of extreme violence, who come from marginalized and disadvantaged backgrounds. Our mission revolves around providing essential protection services and addressing the urgent needs of those who come into with us. Through our Helpdesk, we offer a range of support, including legal and psychosocial assistance, mentorship, as well as psychological support through individual sessions but also through healing and empowerment activities. The services provided through our Helpdesk have received a Global Award for their high quality and impact. (Child 10 Award). Furthermore, we engage in advocacy campaigns to raise awareness, while we provide training to students but also professionals working in the field of migration and child protection through our Human Rights Academy. At the core of our operations lies the fundamental principle of the right to be heard and youth participation. We strongly believe in empowering the voices of young individuals, ensuring they actively shape decisions affecting their lives. Our Youth Ambassadors cluster, predominantly comprising teenagers and young adults, coming from marginalised and disadvantaged backgrounds epitomizes this belief. In this context, we run empowerment and capacity-building activities for them such as leadership skills, communication skills, vocational training and art techniques such as the theatre of the oppressed techniques. These inspiring ambassadors actively engage in advocacy, awareness-raising, and peer-to-peer activities. Since 2019, these Ambassadors have embarked on an array of awareness-raising and advocacy activities, influencing decision-making not only at the domestic level but also engaging in youth participation and advocacy at UN level. The young ambassadors actively engage in matters concerning them, shaping ideas, rehearsing realities, and crafting advocacy material for presentation before national, European and international Authorities, Key Stakeholders, and the wider community. In recent months, through the EU funded project 'Justice Starts with Us' under the Child Friendly Justice Network, the cluster has taken center stage, aiming to empower migrant children and youth involved with the Greek administrative justice system. Our Youth Ambassadors recently visited Genoa and Brussels, presenting their key messages before policymakers, academics, European Mps, at the European Commission, showcasing their dedication to fostering a fair system for children seeking safety upon arrival in Europe.