Zwickau in search of integration: Migration advisory board failed for the time being!

Zwickau in search of integration: Migration advisory board failed for the time being!

The idea of ​​a migration advisory board in Zwickau, which was actually intended to strengthen the voice of immigrants in urban society, has been put on hold for the time being. This is reported by the Free press. The planning city council is faced with various challenges that make the implementation of this project difficult.

A crucial point is that many immigrants first have to get used to the new conditions in Germany. That's not always easy. For example, in Afghanistan there are cultural practices that often prohibit women from shaking hands with men. Such differences can lead to misunderstandings. In addition, a large proportion of migrants come from countries where waste separation is not common. In order to support this integrative process, understanding and support for the experiences of immigrants is required.

Changed framework conditions

In the Zwickau district, the structures for integration work have been inadequate for a long time. Nevertheless, a lot has happened since 2015. After a phase with a relatively low proportion of foreigners, this has risen sharply in recent years. Until a few years ago, many actors in integration work were active on a voluntary basis, while the expansion of full-time structures is now given more importance, such as LAFAST Saxony explained. This has positive effects: many new immigrants make progress in their integration process and benefit from professional support.

In recent years, access to integration advice centers (IBS) has also been made easier. Here, refugees as well as EU citizens and third-country nationals receive low-threshold offers that cover both everyday questions and migration social work support. Five such advice centers in the Zwickau district show that demand is high. There is an increase in usage, particularly in urban areas, while rural regions often lag behind.

Integration as a cross-generational process

Integration is described as a long-term process that has many facets, such as: Federal Agency for Civic Education highlights. Although Germany has not only been considered a country of immigration in recent years, the active promotion of integration has long been left to welfare associations and municipalities. However, after the reforms of 2005, responsibility for integration courses and social participation is clearly regulated and requires efforts at all levels.

It becomes clear that integration is not just the responsibility of new immigrants. Society must also learn to promote equal opportunities and equal treatment. In recent years, the discussion about racism and discrimination has intensified, especially in connection with people from predominantly Muslim countries. The challenge is to have a respectful dialogue and appreciate cultural differences.

In summary, it is clear that it is up to all of us to create inclusive structures and develop understanding for diversity. While Zwickau temporarily has to forego the implementation of a migration advisory board, it remains crucial that integration work continues to be taken seriously and expanded in order to promote harmonious coexistence.