In a region where questions of identity, democracy, and migration are deeply entangled, the work of building inclusive societies in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) is both urgent and complex. It requires more than service delivery or policy reform—it demands a reimagining of belonging itself, grounded in trust, participation, and shared civic life.
At EPIM, we believe that inclusion is not a linear process, but a systemic one—rooted in relationships, shaped by context, and sustained by networks of care and collaboration. Which is why we are proud to partner with the Robert Bosch Foundation, whose €500,000 grant to EPIM’s “Building Inclusive Societies” work in CEE is not just a financial contribution—it is a strategic investment in the region’s democratic and social infrastructure.
The Robert Bosch Stiftung has a long-standing commitment to the CEE region, dating back to the 1990s. Today, their support reflects a bold recognition: that the future of Europe’s migration governance will be shaped not only in Brussels or Berlin, but in the libraries of Lublin, the city halls of Bratislava, and the community centres of Bucharest. Their approach—rooted in mutual learning, cross-sectoral collaboration, and the centring of migrant agency—aligns deeply with EPIM’s vision for the region.
In this conversation, we speak with Lisa Veyhl, Senior Project Manager at the Robert Bosch Foundation, about its strategy in CEE, the importance of relational infrastructure, and why inclusion must be understood as a democratic imperative—not just a social one. We also explore how personal experience, institutional learning, and regional solidarity are shaping a new chapter of philanthropic engagement in the region.
1. The Robert Bosch Foundation has a long history of working in the CEE region. Can you tell us more about your work in the region in the recent past?
In the 1990s, the Robert Bosch Stiftung was the first German and one of the first European foundations to extend support in CEE, notably through cultural exchange programs. This marked the beginning of a long-standing commitment to the region. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the region has once again gained significance. In addition, to its Special Divison on Ukraine, the foundation through its “Global Issues” funding area—has a particular focus on migration and the long-term integration of refugees across Europe.
International cooperation and mutual learning between immigration societies across Europe are central to our work. In CEE, we do not operate directly on the ground ourselves; instead, we strengthen local inclusive societies through trusted partner organisations like EPIM, who have a lot of expertise, are present in the region and pass on funding to local actors. Another example is our collaboration with Pathways International, which supports community sponsorship models in Poland.
2. Why do you think an approach premised building belonging and strengthening democracy interconnected with the inclusion of migrants is vital? How is it different from how inclusion has been approached before?
In my view, a vibrant and functioning democracy must ensure the participation of everyone. This includes (new) immigrants and migrants, as well as other marginalised groups such as people with disabilities or those who are socio-economically disadvantaged. It is essential to empower (new) immigrants, create meaningful opportunities for participation, and ensure their representation. Migrants should be able to participate, contribute, and take part in local decision-making as a matter of course. This is what people themselves want and what fosters a sense of belonging—and ultimately enables people to feel truly at home. Inclusion is not a one-sided process of adaptation by (new) immigrants; it is a reciprocal process of mutual engagement, recognition, and learning among all members of society.
Our work is based on these principles, and I have the impression that EPIM also operates in that sense in CEE, which is what is interesting to the Foundation.
3. Why does the Robert Bosch Foundation believe it is important to support network and relational infrastructures both within countries in CEE and across the region in the context of migration and inclusion? In a sense your approach and support of this aspect of EPIM’s work is unique. How does this relate to the Foundation’s strategy? Why should other Foundations in the region consider supporting this work.
We believe that actors in the field of migration and inclusion must learn from each other, support one another, and collaborate wherever possible. Strong national networks enable joint action and advocacy, while regular regional exchange fosters shared understanding and practical solutions.
Our approach centers on supporting cross-sectoral networks that always include migrant communities themselves. Within the Foundation, the “Future Perspectives and Networks” department and the iac Berlin serve as our internal think and do tanks, providing strategic support to us, our partners, and initiatives like EPIM.
We call on other foundations and donors to join forces with us in the CEE region and beyond. Collaborative funding not only strengthens impact—it leads to smarter, more sustainable solutions.
4. Finally, you yourself have spent time in Prague and other cities, how has your personal experience in the region shaped how you implement your work?
As part of a semester abroad within my bachelor’s degree in political and administrative sciences, I spent half a year in Prague (2008/2009) and also travelled to Poland and Hungary. This time I spent there gave me an initial window into the region. Despite the years that have passed, I feel I still carry a basic understanding of the region.
With my deep knowledge of the German integration context, I am able to draw comparisons and reflect on shared challenges and opportunities. I am therefore especially pleased to now be re-engaging with the region through my involvement in the CEE Cluster of EPIM. It allows me to deepen my understanding and explore what I see as the “laboratories of the immigration society” in the region.
