On October 3, 2025, the Scalabrinian Centre for Migration Studies (CSEM) officially established its headquarters in Italy, a historic milestone that expands its mission to Europe. The founding act took place in Rome, with the presence of the Superior General of the Scalabrinian Sisters, Sr. Neusa de Fátima Mariano, the members of the General Council, and Sr. Milva Caro, appointed deputy director of CSEM Italy.
A moment of emotion and gratitude
In a message sent shortly after the signing, Sr. Neusa de Fátima Mariano, Superior General of the Congregation, emphasized the symbolic significance of the date:
“Exactly today, October 3, 2025, on the eve of the General Chapter of the MSCs Sisters, the CSEM Association is born in Italy. (…) For me personally, I experienced this moment with great gratitude. Everything is in God’s hands so that it may grow, bear fruit, and take root in the service of migrants and refugees.”
The vision of the deputy director
In a video recorded during the ceremony, Sr. Milva Caro, deputy director of CSEM Italy, highlighted the importance of this step:
“Today, for the Scalabrinian Sisters, it is a truly beautiful day. The creation of the CSEM Association in Italy, and thus in Europe, has been signed. It is a dream we have always cherished, as it extends the center already active in Brazil. (…) We are very happy and believe that the Study Center can serve migrants and all those working in the field of migration.”
Expansion and commitment
The opening of the new headquarters took place on the eve of the Jubilee of Migrations, interpreted as a sign of renewal and commitment of the Congregation to the Scalabrinian mission. CSEM thus strengthens its role in producing critical knowledge, supporting public policy development, and fostering the leadership of migrants and refugees, now also from Europe.
“It was very beautiful, a great emotion. May this project grow and expand increasingly in its mission of service to migrants and refugees.” (Sr. Neusa)
The process of establishing the CSEM Italy office was accompanied over the past years by the CSEM, especially through its administrative coordination led by Carmem Lussi, ensuring the necessary legal and institutional solidity.
According to Sr. Marlene Wildner, director of CSEM, this stage reflects the mission of the Center to build bridges between research, training, and public advocacy, expanding its international presence and reinforcing its commitment to migrants and refugees also within the European context.
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