Local Perspective on the Practices and Challenges of Migrant Integration

Abstract

Poland is currently experiencing a transition with regard to migration trends. Foreign immigration, perceived until recently as a secondary issue by public administration, is on the increase. The largest groups of immigrants have traditionally included Ukrainians and the Vietnamese, although the country has not experienced a significant influx of foreigners arriving from Middle East and African countries. At present, Poland has no migration policy document in force and integrative actions are undertaken mostly by local governments, typically on an ad hoc basis. As Poland’s capital city, Warsaw plays a key role in governing diversity and implementing integrative actions. Significant challenges to immigrant integration include barriers to settlement and discrimination on the labour and housing market, along with a substantial rise in negative attitudes towards foreigners amongst members of Polish society. It is mainly this last aspect that is addressed by Warsaw’s local government, which prioritises educational and awareness-raising measures. It must be acknowledged that this is done in close cooperation with the non-governmental sector, where organisations with expertise in relevant fields are commissioned to perform many tasks. The main challenge of integrative actions at the local level is that these are mostly incoherent measures, which in most cases are not sufficient for the actual needs of immigrants. Hence, it is necessary to develop systemic solutions with sound, long-term financing. Moreover, in order for integration to be successful, it is essential to ensure the coordination of measures taken by public institutions at both central and local government level and to ensure the participation of immigrant communities in the development of public policies.