INTERSOS is an international humanitarian organisation based in Italy, dedicated to assisting people affected by conflicts, poverty, and disasters across 23 countries. Since its founding in 1992, it has prioritized support for the most vulnerable, particularly women and children. In Italy, INTERSOS has been active since 2011, addressing the needs of migrants, refugees, and marginalized communities, with a particular focus on Rome, where it provides essential health and protection services. In 2021, INTERSOS established a social enterprise, KORE, to support the empowerment of vulnerable populations by employing survivors of violence and exploitation, as well as members of the LGBTQ+ community. The project promotes ethical labor practices, environmental sustainability, and biodiversity protection, making it a model for social and economic impact in the region.

Over the past two years, Italy has experienced a recovery from the economic crisis triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, despite improvements in labor market conditions, socio- economic indicators have yet to return to pre-pandemic levels. This challenge disproportionately affects vulnerable groups, particularly foreigners, who face significant barriers to labor market integration. A substantial gap remains in employment rates, wages, and unemployment levels between Italians and foreign workers. Foreign women, in particular, encounter even greater obstacles to workforce participation. Motherhood further exacerbates women’s exclusion from employment opportunities. The chronic shortage of childcare services, coupled with a persistent social model that enforces an unequal division of parental responsibilities, severely limits mothers’ access to the labor market.

The project FLOWER – Facilitating Local Opportunities for Women’s Empowerment and Resilience, aims to support the empowerment and socio-economic integration of vulnerable migrant women in Rome, particularly those who have experienced gender-based violence, trafficking, or exploitation. By providing access to employment opportunities, vocational training, psychosocial support, and essential services, the initiative seeks to enhance their well-being and foster their independence.

To achieve these goals, the project will offer a range of activities at the INTERSOS24 Centre in Rome, implemented by INTERSOS in collaboration with the partner organization KORE Srl. Key activities will include personalized case management, job orientation services, vocational training in tailoring through the “Cuci con Kore” program, practical work placements at the KORE social enterprise, and mental health and psychosocial support sessions. These initiatives will provide participants with the necessary skills and resources to secure employment, improve their psychological well-being, and build supportive social networks.

The project is designed to benefit migrant women and girls by equipping them with knowledge and practical skills that enhance their employability. Additionally, it will offer opportunities for individual and group activities aimed at strengthening emotional resilience and fostering a sense of community. Participants will also gain access to crucial information and services related to gender- based violence, increasing their awareness of available support systems and referral pathways.

The Nando and Elsa Peretti Foundation (NaEPF) is a long-standing partner of INTERSOS in Italy, initially supporting the creation of the A28 Night Centre in 2011 and later contributing to its development into the new INTERSOS24 Centre in 2024. NaEPF’s support now extends to the FLOWER programme, aligning with the Foundation’s commitment to driving systemic change and advancing human rights-based economic empowerment through vocational training and education. Through this initiative funded by the NaEPF, migrant women and girls will develop new competencies, expand their social connections, and gain the confidence to pursue independent and dignified lives. The project ultimately aspires to create a more inclusive and supportive environment where vulnerable women can rebuild their futures with greater security and autonomy.