Integration as a sociological concept and national model for immigrants: scope and limits

Abstract

This article introduces the special issue on the contemporary validity of national models of immigrant integration in Europe. From a historical perspective, we address integration as a sociological concept for the social cohesion of European societies and for the integration of their immigrants; subsequently, we discuss the current ‘crisis’ facing both. We then outline seven country studies in order to compare the differences and similarities of their integration models. Although the importance of national integration has decreased with urban segregation, cultural pluralisation, European integration and globalisation for citizens and immigrants, most of the contributions in this issue show that national models of immigrant integration have not completely failed.

Keywords:

• social cohesion
• segregation
• integration
• multiculturalism
• national model
• political discourses and policies

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Dietmar Loch

DIETMAR LOCH is Professor of Sociology at the Institute of Sociology and Anthropology, University Lille1.