The role of civil society in integrating newly arrived migrants

For many decades, during several waves of migration, civil society has played a crucial role in the reception of refugees and asylum seekers in the Nordic countries.

During this period, the segregation of newly arrived migrants from different cultures and with different beliefs and levels of education has gradually increased, leaving integration as a recurring topic for debate.

How do we integrate newly arrived migrants into the majority society so that they can learn the language, find work and housing, obtain an education and enjoy a prosperous future?

Over time, integration policy in the Nordic countries has changed and been revaluated, while segregation and unemployment among migrants has increased. Civil society plays an important role in the integration of newly arrived migrants, making partnerships between civil society and government agencies a pressing need.

The aim of this focus area is to make Nordic comparisons of civil society’s role in the field of integration and highlight examples of successful methods and programmes in the Nordic Countries.

Under “Good examples from the focus area” we highlight the work of non-governmental organisations from various parts of the Nordic region. All have shown themselves to be effective in facilitating the integration of newly arrived migrants. On the left you will also find relevant research and current news from the focus area.

Learn more about the Nordic Conference on Inclusion n Stockholm, where we ask the question of how to create better conditions for civil society. We have invited researchers and key stakeholders in civil society and the public sector in the Nordic countries to join you in discussing how we can best harness the knowledge and energy of civil society. About the conference