Migrant Integration Policies in Action

The aim of the module is to introduce students to the study and analysis of immigrant integration policies in Greece, taking into account institutional issues of general governance in the host countries and case studies of other Mediterranean countries (Spain and Italy). The magnitude of the phenomenon was unique and on such a scale it inevitably affected an already weakened socio-economic geographical space. The weak welfare state system, which was also limited by austerity measures, created a vacuum regarding social management issues, which was filled by international NGOs that came to the forefront of managing refugee flows. The course pays special attention to “immigrant integration” policies in practice, such as multicultural education, immigrant health and other living issues, such as: housing, job training and ways of social integration. What are the viable examples that allow these communities to integrate and develop their own cultural identity by repairing their traumas and through conflict mediation processes? Intercultural conflict mediation is an important issue that could constitute as an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) an important institution that will help to empower these communities and allow their participation. Education, health, housing and institutional care as part of an integration process should seek a new way of integration in Greece to be able to help in further developments in the existing care system. The issue of integration is an important governance issue that is a challenge for the existing institutions in Greece, which needs a better knowledge alliance to create a sustainable and inclusive system for Europe 2030.