When a migrant arrives in France, how can he or she easily find useful information? This is the question we set out to answer as part of the Mobitic project, aimed at facilitating access to information for new arrivals. As a first step, we were able to identify the many existing mobile applications. We have selected a few of them.
Lack of access to information is a major obstacle to integration in a new country. Unsurprisingly, a large number of solutions are already available, all of which offer interesting features and complement each other well.
On a European scale
RefAid: Available in 7 languages, the application features an interactive map listing all available help. For each organization, you’ll find the type of assistance, opening hours, address…
Plus: initiatives referenced throughout Europe, with the option of displaying them in a list or directly on the map.
Minus: the European ambition requires a substantial consortium of partners to feed the database effectively.
On a French scale
Soliguide: also available in 7 languages, Soliguide enables you to search for assistance schemes throughout France. Search by theme and location. It includes a wealth of information (activities, transport access, contact details, description, etc.).
Pros: the application lists a very large number of initiatives in great detail, throughout France.
Cons: an application that, in practice, is little used by migrants themselves, but more by support associations.
On a local scale
Pratikapp: designed and created with users in mind, Pratikapp is a reference tool for people in precarious situations in Montpellier. Designed to make information as accessible as possible, two clicks are all it takes to access an interactive map containing structure sheets referencing essential details.
Plus: an application with territorial ambitions, enabling more advanced referencing and updates thanks to more in-depth knowledge of the sector.
Minus: a quality that is difficult to apply at national level.
Our favorite: 505 migrants.
Based on the needs of its target audience, 505 migrants is a genuine communication tool for development. Currently available in the city of Paris, 505 migrants uses the WhatsApp channel to transmit information in a simple, accessible way. Simply scan the WhatsApp QR code or dial +33 7 56 79 85 05 to start a conversation. Then, it’s as simple as sending an emoji according to your need (plate, shower, sick…). The platform responds with the nearest address (WhatsApp can geolocate the message) and the facility’s opening hours.
The added value of this platform is therefore substantial, since it is based on a tool already used by targets with a universal language: emojis.
In partnership with Greek and Spanish organizations and funded by Erasmus+, the Mobitic project aims to facilitate access to information for newcomers to Europe.
Photo credits: RefAid/Capture d’écran; Soliguide/Capture d’écran; Pratikapp/Capture d’écran; 505 migrants/Capture d’écran