Link - IOM Publications - International Organization for Migration

THE MULTIDIMENSIONAL
NATURE OF INTEGRATION
As mentioned above, a “one-size-fits-all” approach to
integration is hardly feasible. Integration needs to be responsive
to the complexities of modern-day migration. For example,
it needs to take into account the changes in the direction of
migratory flows and duration of stay, the diversification of cultural
backgrounds, specific issues related to gender and skill levels, and
the differentiated needs of second or third generations as opposed
to recent immigrants. Integration policy and practice should also
include a sustained effort to counteract negative perceptions and
stereotypes in the host society and among migrants in order to
facilitate positive interaction between the two.
At the workshop, participants and panellists elaborated on the
various dimensions of integration, namely economic, legal, social,
and cultural and religious aspects. A balanced interplay between
these factors makes for successful integration. Furthermore, in
each of these dimensions there are important roles for migrants,
the host society, the country of origin, business and civil society
as well as other stakeholders.
Economic
Economic opportunity frequently catalyzes changes in
livelihood strategies that result in migration. Migrants seeking
broader economic opportunity may identify gaps in labour
markets abroad, which may exist due to a lack of skills in the
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