Independence means different things to different people.
For some, it means finding a job. For others, it means understanding official documents, managing finances or confidently speaking with a doctor. Sometimes, independence is simply being able to handle everyday situations without having to rely on someone else.
As part of the LiLI project, migrant women were asked about the situations they find most important and where they would like to become more autonomous.
Their responses reveal a clear desire to participate actively in society and manage everyday life independently.
Among the most important situations identified were applying for jobs, understanding and completing official documents, and communicating in healthcare settings. Many women expressed a wish to take care of administrative tasks themselves, navigate public services independently and communicate more confidently in German.
At the same time, the responses highlighted a number of recurring barriers. Difficulties understanding information, finding the right words and fear of making mistakes were frequently mentioned. These challenges often affect confidence and can make even relatively simple tasks feel overwhelming.
What is striking, however, is the determination shown by the participants. The women did not focus on what they could not do. Instead, they focused on what they wanted to learn and where they wanted to improve.
Their responses remind us that integration is not simply about access to services or educational opportunities. It is also about empowerment, confidence and the ability to make choices independently.
Listening to these experiences is an essential first step in developing meaningful learning opportunities.
And it is exactly this perspective that guides the work of LiLI.
Because autonomy is not achieved through information alone.
It grows when people have the skills, confidence and support needed to act independently in everyday life.
