Local responses to disinformation and trauma‑informed integration were at the centre of a two‑day training held on 27–28 May 2026 in Riga, where 13 participants from cities in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania strengthened practical skills for supporting migrants and refugees at the local level.

The session marked the conclusion of the Academy on the Integration of Migrants and Refugees in the Baltic Countries, an inter‑agency initiative involving the ICC Programme, ODIHR, OECD and UNHCR.

This training, co‑organised by the Intercultural Cities (ICC) Programme and the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), allowed participants to explore how trauma can shape the experiences of migrants and refugees and how municipal services can adapt to respond sensitively and effectively. Through practical exercises, discussions, and group work, they examined ways to adjust frontline interactions and service design to better meet the needs of people with lived experiences of trauma.

In parallel, working groups addressed disinformation challenges in cities. Participants analysed concrete cases from their municipalities, reflected on the impact of disinformation on social cohesion, and drafted initial countermeasures. They also discussed approaches for strengthening local communication practices, including basic guidance on operational responses and communication principles.

The training enabled participants to consolidate learning from the full Interagency Academy cycle and revisit practical approaches developed in earlier sessions. Feedback confirmed strong engagement from municipalities and interest in applying the methodologies in ongoing integration work.

The ICC Programme and ODIHR will continue exchanges to explore follow‑up cooperation and potential support to municipalities in different countries.