Archive · 7 Aug 2025
Migrants Reflect on a Decade in Europe
Many people from different countries fled to Europe about ten years ago, looking for safety and a better life.
This story is about four of them.
One person went to Italy, went to school and now helps other migrants.
Another family from Syria found peace in Germany but miss their home.
One woman from Afghanistan is still struggling with her residency and lives out of her car.
A Palestinian man built a life in Belgium but is always thinking about his family back home.
They all had challenges and successes but are still adjusting to their new lives.
Migrants who arrived in Europe a decade ago share their experiences of integrating into new societies.
Naziru Usman Abubakar from Nigeria earned a law degree in Italy after overcoming language and financial barriers.
Ehab Mzeal and his family from Syria found peace in Germany but struggle with the desire to return home.
Nadia Feyzi, an Afghan refugee in Germany, faces residency issues and lives out of her car despite seeking opportunities.
Youssef Hammad, a Palestinian, built a life in Belgium after fleeing Gaza, but is still connected to his homeland.
- Who
- Four migrants from Nigeria, Syria, Afghanistan, and Palestine.
- What
- Migrants share their experiences of living in Europe a decade after arriving.
- When
- Around a decade ago and up to the present.
- Where
- Europe, focusing on Italy, Germany, and Belgium, and the migrants' countries of origin.
- Why
- To find peace, stability, and opportunities.
Migrants' Experiences
European Society
Integration vs. Opportunity
Migrants' Experiences
The challenges of integrating into European society including language barriers, racism, and legal hurdles.
European Society
The opportunities Europe has offered including education, employment, and safety.
Belonging and Homeland
Migrants' Experiences
The pain of separation from their homelands and the difficulties of returning.
European Society
Finding a sense of belonging in new communities and building lives in Europe.
- Migrants' Origins
- Nigeria, Syria, Afghanistan, Palestine
- Year of Arrival (approx.)
- 2014-2016
- Countries of Residence
- Italy, Germany, Belgium
- Challenges Faced
- Language barriers, racism, residency issues, loss of homeland
- Achievements
- Education, employment, family