Promoting Inclusion and Non-Discrimination through Structured Monitoring
The Municipality of Braga is implementing the IN LOCO project, which focuses on promoting the inclusion of migrants through targeted support services and awareness-raising activities. By working with both migrant communities and professionals, the project seeks to reduce inequalities and strengthen social cohesion at the local level.
The initiative is centered on the right to non-discrimination, aiming to improve access to rights and empower migrants through increased awareness, self-advocacy, and engagement with local institutions. Braga’s participation in DeCiDE reflects its ambition to strengthen governance through a more systematic, human rights-based approach to policymaking.
The introduction of the SMS has enabled the municipality to better structure its monitoring processes, moving from intuitive practices to a more intentional and evidence-based approach. This has improved the ability to assess the effectiveness of actions and communicate results clearly, strengthening both internal decision-making and accountability.
Initial data collection, including focus groups and training sessions, has shown strong results, with participants reporting significant improvements in knowledge related to rights, discrimination, and self-advocacy. These findings are already informing discussions on expanding training programmes and allocating resources to sustain and scale these activities.
Braga’s experience demonstrates how structured monitoring can enhance both the impact and sustainability of inclusion policies. By embedding reflection and measurement into its work, the municipality is building a more coherent and effective approach to promoting human rights at the local level.
