The Problem of a Simplistic and Flawed Understanding of Integration

The primary reason for the failure of integration policies is the simplistic and flawed understanding of the word. Governments treated integration merely as the completion of official paperwork and simple procedures; as soon as a refugee finished a language course and got any job, the state considered them successfully “integrated.” This mindset ignored the most crucial aspect, which is the cultural aspect that requires changing one’s way of thinking, accepting the new lifestyle, and respecting the freedoms of others.

On the other hand, many migrants also misunderstood integration. Some thought it was just about working and learning the language to get by without making any real attempt at coexistence. Others feared integration, viewing it as an attempt to erase their original identity, force them into blind imitation of others, and strip them of their roots. This mutual fear led many migrants to prefer living in isolated neighborhoods populated only by their compatriots, which prevented them from genuinely mixing with the new society.

Transferring Sectarian Problems to Countries of Immigration

One of the clearest indicators of the failure of integration policies is the transfer of old conflicts and problems from the countries of origin to Europe. Previously, governments assumed that people who had lived in Europe for many years had become part of these societies and left their disputes behind. The shock, however, came with the emergence of sectarian and political loyalties that have nothing to do with the European country they live in.

We have recently seen violent clashes in several European cities between migrants from the same country due to old disputes and sectarian stances. The transfer of problems and their transformation into brawls and vandalism on the streets of Europe clearly proves that learning a language and getting a job do not necessarily mean a change in mentality. This vacuum was exploited by extremist groups to deepen divisions and establish their presence, shattering the idea that integration happens automatically over time.

The Host Society and the Rise of Hate Speech

Integration is not limited to the migrant alone; a large part of the burden falls on the host society. Governments did not prepare their populations to receive these large numbers, nor did they immunize their societies against fear-mongering and the rejection of the other. The economic factor cannot be ignored either, as it made matters worse; the high cost of living, the housing crisis, and the immense pressure on public services made some citizens feel that migrants were competing with them for their livelihoods and available opportunities.

Today, offensive and inflammatory speech against migrants has become normalized in some areas. This government failure has been exploited by far-right parties, which have turned anti-migrant sentiment into an attractive project to win the votes of angry constituents. We have seen how the power of these parties has doubled in elections in major countries, bringing the idea of deporting migrants to the forefront of the news, thereby threatening the stability of these nations.

The Responsibility of the State and Decision-Makers

Although some migrants have misbehaved, and despite the presence of people in the host society who reject foreigners no matter what they do, the bulk of the blame lies with the state and decision-makers. The state is the “greater mind” that must manage affairs wisely and accommodate everyone.

European governments relied on temporary solutions and painkillers rather than deep planning. There was no coordination between securing housing, education, and employment to prevent the isolation of migrants. Furthermore, governments were far too lenient for a very long time regarding the transgressions, extremist rhetoric, and problems instigated by some refugees under the pretext of tolerance. They were also lenient with the far-right under the pretext of freedom of expression, which weakened the rule of law and left people feeling a loss of safety.

Required Solutions to Build a Cohesive Society

Previous policies have proven to be a failure, and countries are in desperate need of a new system that saves societies from hatred and division; because mutual ignorance is not a solution. To overcome this crisis, practical and decisive steps must be implemented:

Strictly clarifying rights and duties: The right to permanent residency must be linked to passing genuine tests in understanding laws and respecting the values of coexistence, not merely presenting a paper proving language acquisition.

Preventing isolated residential clusters: The state must intervene in housing policies to avoid the concentration of certain nationalities in single neighborhoods, to encourage everyone to interact daily and break down the barriers of fear.

Solving local economic crises: Governments must address the housing and price crises so that native citizens do not feel wronged and do not use migrants as scapegoats for the state’s problems.

Enforcing the law firmly and powerfully: Swift and strict measures must be taken against any person or group attempting to transfer sectarian problems here or practice violence, in order to impose the authority of the state and ensure the security of everyone.

Conclusion: An Opportunity to Create a New World

Faced with this complex reality, it is imperative for governments to urgently develop new and radical integration plans and strategies. However, if official authorities fall short or delay, the historical responsibility falls directly on the shoulders of civil society workers and activists. The state Europe has reached today, after a full decade of this cultural and global mix—accompanied by the racism of some, the extremism of others, and the negative silence and neutrality of a third group—compels everyone to take immediate action. Effective community initiatives must be launched to save these societies and prevent current events from being exploited by parties seeking to fuel division and spread hatred.

Instead of fearing this diversity, this unique societal mix must be utilized to promote a culture of mutual coexistence. It is undoubtedly a genuine opportunity to turn this harsh experience into an inspiring lesson, serving as a fundamental building block for a new world where there is no place for discrimination based on race, color, appearance, religion, or language.

By Abo Baker Alromoh