EMPOWERING MIGRANTS THROUGH CRAFT-BASED SKILLS: SOCIAL ECONOMY INITIATIVES FOR INTEGRATION AND INCLUSION

Purpose: This paper explores how social economy projects can facilitate migrant inclusion through the cultivation of crafts-based skills, creating economic opportunities while fostering social cohesion.Crafts and traditional skills serve as powerful tools for empowerment, enabling migrants to gain employment, develop entrepreneurial initiatives, and participate actively in local communities.By examining successful case studies, engaging in traditional embroidery and handicraft cooperatives, this study highlights the role of social enterprises, cooperatives, and community-driven initiatives in supporting migrants through skills training, mentorship programs, and market access.Craft-based social economy initiatives provide economic opportunities while fostering cultural exchange and social cohesion.This study investigates how these initiatives empower migrants and contribute to their integration within local communities.Design/methodology/approach: The paper employs a qualitative case study approach, examining three key projects-MADE51, Knit for Peace, Refugee Company, and INTERCRAFT-that utilize crafts-based skills to support migrant integration.These case studies are analyzed through the lens of social economy theory, focusing on their vocational training, entrepreneurship support, and community-building aspects.Data is gathered from project reports, interviews, and relevant literature to provide a comprehensive understanding of the impact of these initiatives. Findings:The study demonstrates that crafts-based social economy projects significantly contribute to migrant integration by providing sustainable income opportunities, fostering cross-cultural connections, and enhancing social cohesion.The findings highlight the importance of vocational training, entrepreneurship, and intergenerational collaboration in these initiatives, showing how they empower migrants and offer a sense of purpose and inclusion.Originality/value: This paper contributes to the understanding of the role of social economy projects in migrant integration, with a specific focus on crafts-based initiatives.It provides valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and social enterprises working with migrants, offering evidence of the positive impact of these initiatives on both economic and social inclusion.The article shows the importance of craftsmanship not only from the point of view of the products created and services offered, but also as a tool for integration and social inclusion.K. Mazur-Wodarczyk, K.