In response to the challenges of refugee integration and social inclusion faced by Armenian local authorities, UNDP Geneva, in collaboration with UNDP Armenia, recently organized a capacity-development and knowledge-sharing mission with French local authorities. From February 2 to 7, representatives from Lyon, Aix-en-Provence, Clamart, Calvados, and Roissy Pays de France engaged with Armenian stakeholders to exchange expertise and foster local-to-local cooperation in supporting displaced populations.

This initiative is part of an ongoing partnership between the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs (DCTCIV) and UNDP Geneva. French Ambassador to Armenia, Olivier Decottignies, emphasized the importance of the project, stating, “This initiative highlights France's commitment to strengthening Franco-Armenian decentralized cooperation and fostering peer-to-peer action for refugee inclusion. The involvement of local authorities complements French diplomatic efforts and enhances our collective capacity to respond.”

UNDP Armenia remains at the forefront of efforts to build the capacities of national and local authorities in addressing the refugee crisis. Resident Representative Natia Natsvlishvili explains the significance of these efforts, noting, “UNDP's work spans emergency response, public service support, inclusive, equitable and green growth, and social cohesion. This cooperation between French and Armenian municipalities is an invaluable opportunity for cities and communities alike.”

Collaboration between France and Armenia in decentralized cooperation has been steadily expanding, with UNDP playing a key role in deepening these partnerships. Over the past decade, for example, Lyon has maintained a collaborative partnership with Yerevan. Sonia Zdorovtzoff, Deputy Mayor of Lyon, underlined the mission’s impact, stating, “Through this project, UNDP is fostering a collective effort to develop concrete actions with Armenian cities. Meeting a diverse group of actors helps us reinforce partnerships and better address the challenges our counterparts face.”

Looking ahead, the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs is set to launch a call for proposals to further support Franco-Armenian decentralized cooperation projects. Additionally, in June, the Syunik region will host the Congress of Franco-Armenian Decentralized Cooperation. This event will bring together local authorities from both nations to discuss refugee reception and integration, ensuring these critical issues remain at the heart of international collaboration.