“I came to Lithuania seven years ago from Turkey. I was forced to leave my country because of the war – my main goal was to protect my family and find a safe place to start a new life.”
Abdulrazzaq is one of those who had to start from scratch. His journey to Europe began in Turkey, where he registered with a United Nations agency. “Lithuania chose me – and today I can truly say: I am grateful for this opportunity.”
The first years were full of challenges – a new language, unfamiliar culture, and complicated paperwork. “I started working as a tailor, but soon became involved in community work. Currently, I work at the Jonava District Social Services Center with foreigners and lead the Syrian community in Lithuania.”
Abdulrazzaq’s daily work is all about helping other refugees: organizing Lithuanian language lessons, accompanying people to medical institutions, assisting with visits to municipalities, and mediating various processes. “I had never done this kind of work before, but it feels very close to my heart.”
In the beginning, the staff at the Refugee Reception Center and the Caritas organization – where Abdulrazzaq later worked as a translator – were the ones who helped him most.
“It wasn’t easy at first – because of the language barrier and cultural differences. But over time, through work and shared activities, I built connections with both Lithuanians and other migrants. I naturally became part of the community – through my desire to help others and be active. Today, I truly feel like I am a valuable part of both the Syrian community and the broader Lithuanian society,” says Abdulrazzaq.
Let’s see migrants in Lithuania through a new lens – with understanding and with a willingness to help. Become a sponsor on their integration journey: https://riseproject.lt/remejai/
The RISE project is a European initiative aimed at expanding and strengthening community sponsorship programs in Belgium, Italy, and Lithuania. By fostering stronger local community involvement, we help refugees integrate more easily and build a new life. The RISE project is funded by the EU Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (2021–2027).