Human rights, migration and civil society with the winners of the Degree Awards “Terzo Settore”
Clementina Maiullari and Willow Appleby, alumni of the course “Human Rights and Multilevel Governance”, are the winners of the first edition of the Degree Awards “Terzo Settore”. A degree promoted by Associazione degli Amici dell’Università di Padova ETS and Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Padova e Rovigo, in collaboration with Associazione Alumni dell’Università degli Studi di Padova and under the patronage of the Schools of Law
and Economics and Political Science of University of Padua.
The themes explored in their dissertations include civil society, migration and refugee camps in the EU, combining academic research and fieldwork experience.
Clementina presented a dissertation on shrinking civic space and civil society, providing both a global overview and a in-depth analysis on Greece. What significantly enriches her work is her field experience with Vasilika Moon Onlus, an Italian NGO which provides support to asylum seekers in Corinth, Greece. Indeed, she gives specific attention to the role of civil society in supporting migrants and asylum seekers in a period of time characterized by increasing policies that that criminalise solidarity.
Evidence shows that Europe is facing polarisation of political views and a growing lack of interest among its citizens in taking part in politics.
What tools do you think could be used to address this issue and maintain a strong and healthy civic society?
C.: “I think that, to counter polarisation and political disaffection, it is crucial to strengthen civic education both within schools and through non-formal education. It is necessary to ensure real consultation mechanisms in decision-making processes. Spaces for real confrontation, support for local initiatives and solidarity networks help to mend the social fabric and strengthen the sense of belonging, key elements for a strong and inclusive civil society.”
Willow focused her research on the impact of EU funding on women and girls in Greek refugee camps. She observed slight improvements in recent years, but concluded that the path to more humane conditions in refugee camps is still long. Her two years of experience working with CHEERing in Athens has made her a witness to the crucial role that NGOs play where governments are lacking.
In your dissertation, you highlighted the daily challenges faced by women and girls in ‘closed access refugee camps’.
Could you explain what these centres are, and why it is important to be aware of this situation?
W.: “Closed access refugee camps in Greece were funded by the EU to “manage” the refugee crisis, but in reality, people are not allowed out, NGOs struggle to enter, and conditions inside are dire. (…) People don’t feel safe, lack basic necessities, and children are being diagnosed (by MSF) with malnutrition without proper care. (…) This is happening on Europe’s doorstep, and if people don’t know, they can’t advocate for change. One woman in our focus group said, “Tell them it is better here for animals than for us.” Even in Malakasa, the so-called “paradise camp”, there’s overcrowding, infestations and months with no doctors. Without NGOs, things would be much worse.“
Resilience of communities: a leading thread among experiences
What struck me most about my internship experience was the resilience and humanity of the people I met in Corinth, who were able to retain dignity and hope despite their still uncertain future. And then the determination of an organisation that continues to be present despite all the bureaucratic obstacles of the Greek government. I learnt how collective work and daily care are crucial to ensure everyone has fair access to their fundamental rights.
Clementina Maiullari
What impressed me most is the resilience and community that emerge even in the worst situations. Despite government obstacles and attempts to divide people, communities still form. My thesis highlights the crucial role of charities and NGOs amid restrictions, but almost everyone I met wants to help themselves, not just be helped. This resilience and spirit really blew me away.
Willow Appleby
What is one character that inspires you? Why?
There is one person whose story I have greatly admired since I was a very young girl: I am talking about Malala Yousafzai. Her history shows that education is not just a right, but a powerful tool for emancipation and social justice. Her commitment as a young girl reminds the world that defending education means defending freedom. His famous phrase accompanies me every day: “One child, one teacher, one book and one pen can change the world”.
Clementina Maiullari
One person who really inspires me is Farzana, CHEERing director and a refugee from Afghanistan. When CHEERing was small, she showed up “like an angel,” helping with translating and much more. She’s now a cornerstone of the organisation, always positive and compassionate, and she always puts others first. While many react to stress with fight or flight, Farzana reacts by putting herself in others’ shoes and easily dissolves tension. To this day when I’m feeling stressed, I ask myself, “What would Farzana do?” and I really feel she makes me a better person.
Willow Appleby
A picture of a memory from your time at UniPD?
I chose to share this picture of the Peace March from Perugia to Assisi we participated in as university. For me, it represents the University of Padua’s commitment to promote human rights both in classroom and in public spaces. I had the immense privilege to talk with Don Luigi Ciotti. It was a moment that touched me deeply and embodied what I learnt at university: the connection between knowledge, commitment and humanity.
Clementina Maiullari
This is a photo taken during my Master’s Internship in Athens with CHEERing.
In the camps in Greece, I saw diverse groups find common ground and support each other. This resilience and spirit really blew me away.
Willow Appleby