Integration

The term integration (Latin integratio) means „restoration of a whole“ (Hillmann 2007, 383). In sociology, it refers to a „behavioral and conscious integration into or alignment with value structures and behavioral patterns“ (ibid.). Usually, a social group or individuals of a homogeneous society are contrasted and compared with each other, so that classifications can be made between the integrated and the non-integrated (cf. Gregori 2015, 25). It is a very complex term, so there is no consensus on what exactly is meant by it (cf. Grosche 2015).

Various definitions

The German Council of Experts (SVR) of German Foundations for Integration and Migration cites the following definition:

The SVR understands integration as the participation of all in the central areas of social life with as equal opportunities as possible. These range from upbringing and early education in the family as well as in preschool public institutions, school education, vocational training, and a life that is self-determined through work and its earnings and not dependent on transfers, to – status-dependent – political participation as well as participation in a wide variety of protection and welfare systems in the legal and welfare state (Sachverständigenrat deutscher Stiftungen für Integration und Migration 2019). Filsinger confirms this definition and summarizes integration as „the equal participation (access justice) in the economic, ecological, social and cultural resources of society“ (cf. Hinrichs 2003 cited in Filsinger 2008, 8).

System integration and social integration

Esser, on the other hand, distinguishes integration between social integration and system integration to make the term more understandable. System integration is understood as the inclusion of a social system as a whole (cf. Esser 2004, 53). Social integration, on the other hand, refers to the relationship between individuals and their inclusion in an already existing social system (cf. ibid., 46). Four dimensions can be distinguished from each other:

– Culturation, which refers to the assimilation of „knowledge, skills, and cultural ‚models,‘ specifically including linguistic socialization“ (ibid.),

– placement, which refers to the „assumption of rights and the taking of positions“ (ibid.),

– interaction, which deals with the linking of social relationships and inclusion in central networks (cf. ibid.), and

– identification, which is achieved through a certain loyalty to the social system (cf. ibid.).

Integration can succeed in different ways, but here are some general tips:

learn the language: one of the most important prerequisites for successful integration is learning the language of the host country. A good knowledge of the language makes it easier to socialize, find work, and navigate everyday life.
pay attention to cultural differences: Cultural differences can be an obstacle to successful integration. It is important to recognize and respect these differences. Here, intercultural trainings or conversations with locals can help to develop understanding for each other.
Establish contacts: Contacts with locals and other migrants can help to settle into the new environment more quickly. This can be done through clubs, neighborhood meetings or sports clubs.
look for work: work is an important part of integration. Employment not only brings financial security, but also the opportunity to socialize and improve language skills.
Get involved in the community: getting involved in the community can help promote integration. This can be done through volunteer work, political involvement, or cultural activities.
Stay positive: integration is a process that takes time and patience. There are setbacks and difficulties, but it is important to stay positive and focus on the positive aspects.
Seek support: It is important to seek support when difficulties arise. This can be professional counseling services, but also friends, family or religious communities.

Literature

Esser, Hartmut (2004): What alternative to „assimilation“ actually exists? In: Bade, Klaus/ Bommes, Michael (eds.): Migration-Integration-Education. Basic questions and problem areas. IMIS-Beiträge Heft 23. Osnabrück, 41-59.

Filsinger, Dieter (2008): Conditions of successful integration – Integration monitoring and evaluation. Expertise commissioned by the Friedrich Ebert Foundation. Bonn.

Georgi, Viola B. (2015): Integration, diversity, inclusion. In: Magazine II, 25-27. https://www.die-bonn.de/zeitschrift/22015/einwanderung-01.pdf [19.08.19].

Grosche, M. (2015). What is inclusion? In: Kuhl, P./ Stanat, P./ Lütje-Klose, B./ Gresch, C./ Pant, H. A./ Prenzel, M. (Eds.): Inclusion of students with special educational needs in school achievement surveys. Foundations and findings. Wiesbaden: Springer, 17-39.

Hillmann, Karl-Heinz (2007): Dictionary of sociology. 5th ed. Stuttgart: Kröner.

Expert Council of German Foundations on Integration and Migration (2019): Immigration Society. https://www.svr-migration.de/glossar/ [19.08.19].