Knowledge by, for and about newcomers

We are building an evidence-based system of integration and inclusion. We do this by transforming the lived experience of newcomers building their lives in the Netherlands into knowledge to inform policy. This way we work on effective newcomer policies that allow newcomers to participate fully.

We build inclusive communities of newcomers and experienced Dutch people who learn together and come up with smart solutions. In addition, we support individual newcomers with knowledge and actions. And at the same time we are changing the system of integration and inclusion.

Action Research

Working for perspective for newcomers

We support newcomers personally and examine what causes them to get stuck in the system. And learn from that what municipalities or organizations can change in policies and Act for smooth, dignified and meaningful integration.

Customized difference-sensitive learning

The experiences and expertise of newcomers themselves are central to all our education and training. We develop customized learning modules for professionals, newcomers and volunteers alike.

Effective policies based on the experiences of newcomers

We support governments and civil society organizations in developing an effective and inclusive measurement model and implementation of evaluation. To test and develop policy and practice from the perspective of the people concerned.

Knowledge is the key to change

The questions and knowledge of people with a migration background are at the heart of every project. Our programs and surveys provide data; we turn it into knowledge that teaches us how integration is going. We use that knowledge to improve the system of integration.

Featured Projects

Desk research Newcomers to the Netherlands

On behalf of ICTU, OpenEmbassy Regioplan are bringing together existing knowledge about experiences, bottlenecks, and opportunities for improvement within the life event "I am new to the Netherlands."

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Newcomers' vision for Almere

An exploration with the municipality of Almere towards an integrated vision on asylum, integration, Ukrainian displaced persons, and undocumented migrants. With a focus on policy, implementation, and practical experiences.

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Validation of New Neighbourhood Home

OpenEmbassy working with Utrecht University of Applied Sciences OpenEmbassy which interventions can make asylum and Ukraine reception more humane, based on the partner model of the Nieuwe BuurThuis (New Neighbourhood Home).

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Perspective on Integration in Waterland and Landsmeer

For the municipalities of Waterland and Landsmeer, we evaluate the integration of newcomers in various learning pathways, focusing on the perspective of the newcomers themselves.

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Evaluation of Integration Policy in Leidschendam-Voorburg

For the municipality of Leidschendam-Voorburg, we evaluate integration in terms of guidance toward participation, work, and education, with a focus on the perspective of the immigrants themselves.

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Roads to Work

Research commissioned by SZW to gain insight into the different ways and routes people in these three phases find their way to independent work in the Netherlands. With a national survey and three expert pools.

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Expert pool for integration in Zaanstad

Two expert pools with newcomers in Zaanstad to identify what is needed to strengthen integration policy and support meaningful participation.

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Eindhoven's childcare ambition

Together with the Municipality of Eindhoven, we set goals that align with their vision on childcare. We use the Indicators of Integration model for this purpose.

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Monitoring and Evaluation in Region Helmond de Peel

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Monitoring and Evaluation Maastricht

Commissioned by the Municipality of Maastricht, we gather insights from newcomers about work, participation and social connections through surveys and expert pools, within the New Urbanism policy framework.

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We are committed to change from within

Because there are difficult as well as well-functioning sides to the system of integration. That is why we enjoy working on behalf of system parties, such as municipalities, provinces, the state, housing corporations and health care providers.