EU funded project Sawian helps prevent youth crime in Finland 

“Stop gangs and radicalisation of children and young people with immigrant backgrounds”. This is not just a slogan, but a real project to prevent young people (10-22-year-olds) in Finland from being involved in violence and crime and protecting them from radicalisation.

This EU-funded project focuses on the well-being and inclusion of youth and their families, specifically those with migrant background, who are at higher risk of social exclusion.

Many young people with foreign background feel caught between two worlds, not fully belonging to Finnish society nor their parents' home culture.

The project collaborates with schools, the police and local communities. So far, 28 schools were involved, reaching 77 young people individually and 166 through group activities. It also provides trainings for professionals working with young people, focusing on topics related to gang formation and radicalisation.

To be close to the people, the project supports children, youth, and families by conducting activities in their native languages. In addition to working with youth, the project's experts involve also the families. Many parents lack the knowledge and skills to support their children in a Finnish environment particularly when navigating two cultures. To address this, 424 counselling sessions were conducted where parents received guidance and counselling to better assist their children.

Thanks to this project, many young people have discovered hobbies such as football, basketball, or gym training, helping them distance themselves from harmful influences. Additionally, these activities have led to better school performance and concentration. Forming peer groups has helped to prevent violence and bullying and to build new friendships.

"Sawian," which means "together" in Arabic, is a joint project of the Finnish Refugee Council and the organisation Aseman Lapset, co-funded by the Funding Centre for Social Welfare and Health Organisations (STEA) and the EU's Internal Security Fund (ISF).

Duration: January 2023 - December 2025

Budget: EUR 1 307 494

EU contribution: EUR 1 176 744

Country: Finland

Fund: Internal Security Fund (ISF)

Policy: Security Policy, Integration, Fight against Radicalisation

Project Information: EU funded project Sawian