Integration

Definition, characteristics and prerequisites of integration are a vast and still controversial area of research and debate. ILO and partners have conducted research and practical activity over the last 15 years intended to expand understanding of integration.

A European Hearing on Immigration and Integration co-conducted by the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), the ILO and the European Foundation for Living and Working Conditions in Dublin in June 2006 described the following considerations (Report):

• Employment is central to integration, as it is where migrant workers obtain self-sufficiency for themselves and their families, it is where they establish contacts and familiarity with the host country, and it is where they concretely contribute to economic development and prosperity.
• Social partners are central actors in facilitating integration, through their roles and activities in and around the workplace.
• Integration is a mutual, two-way process, requiring accommodation of newcomers to the context of their host country and requiring the host country and its population to accommodate diversity and respect identities of newcomers and minorities.
• Achieving integration may require structural changes in law, programmes and policies addressing employment, conditions of employment, non-discrimination, etc.
• It equally requires providing immediate assistance and support to immigrant workers and their families to find employment opportunities, learn the local language, obtain recognition of qualifications and training, and obtain orientation to the host community and country.

See also

This section includes research reviewing integration literature and initiating an evaluative approach to integration indicators, links to recommendations and findings of work by the European Economic and Social Committee and other partners, and other information to contribute to understanding and practicing integration.

• EESC Opinion on integration - (pdf 407 Kb)
  Opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee onImmigration in the EU and integration policies: cooperation between regional and local governments and civil society organisations