Studie - ecos

Potenziale und Herausforderungen der Expats-Integration in der Region Basel
Seite 15 von 71
cantons and communities regarding taxes or day-care provisions as well as other relevant
private or public services. It is, however, difficult to keep track of an environment
that is subject to permanent change, even for specialists. In addition, other
family members are sometimes only considered as an afterthought. Yet it is often
just one unhappy family member that is the cause of a family deciding to leave the
region – which gives rise to costs and unfulfilled social and economic potential.
Rationale: It is in a company’s own interests for expats (including other family
members) to be well-informed, well-integrated and happy. Companies need to be
made aware of any (information) deficiencies that exist. Therefore, companies
should exploit synergies in contact with cantonal offices and private initiatives (initial
welcoming and other services from the cantons, information points and material).
Recommendations to other protagonists
8) Sensitization of associations, foundations and other organizations
Description: Associations, (charitable) foundations and other organizations in the
Basel region are often unaware of the potential offered by the expat community, and
frequently adopt a negative or indifferent attitude towards them. In addition, the
ways in which expats are able to participate are often rather inflexible. A conference
should therefore be arranged to find ways for a permanent sensitisation of these organisations.
Rationale: Expats want to contribute to the development of a region in the sporting,
cultural and social spheres, but often find themselves “left out in the cold”. Discussions
within the context of a conference with key protagonists could help to break
down barriers in this respect. New projects and opportunities for exchanging views
need to identify areas of mutual interest. Volunteering is an excellent opportunity in
this respect. However, this would require adjustments in certain situations (projectbased,
selective collaboration in keeping with “corporate volunteering” concepts).
9) Involving the media
Description: The media should be made aware of positive examples (social benefits
of a multilingual environment, contribution of expat community and economic development,
length of stay, etc.) with a view to sensitising the wider population to the
potential for (and obstacles to) expat integration.
Rationale: Little (or even negative) reporting on expats fuels local fears of losing
jobs and contributes xenophobic feelings. A more differentiated portrayal by the media
would trigger a change in perception in the local population and help to break
down barriers.
10) Creating needs-oriented information and online services
Description: A great deal of information that could potentially facilitate the integration
of expats in Basel is available online. However, there is little coordination, and
the information is often only available in German. Existing initiatives should be
more closely aligned with one another and should raise awareness (in English) of the