THE INTEGRATION OF MIGRANTS: ESSENTIAL CHARACTERISTICS AND DIMENSIONS
Abstract
The war in Ukraine has led to a significant migration of population, mainly of employable age. Therefore, the issue of integration of Ukrainians into different spheres of social life in the recipient countries, especially into the labour market, is becoming relevant. The purpose of the article is to elaborate on the theoretical and methodological foundations and develop the essential characteristics and dimensions of migrants’ integration into different spheres of life in the recipient country. The study uses the methods of comparative analysis, critical generalisation, and categorisation. The analysis of the research on migration and the integration of migrants into different spheres of life in the recipient countries has shown that there is no common ground in the views of scholars on the essential characteristics and dimensions of the concept of integration of migrants. Based on a comparative analysis of the approaches of different researchers, the methodological principles that define the essential characteristics of the concept of integration of migrants have been formulated. It is determined that integration is a multi-vector process that involves different parties and actors and implies the reconciliation of migrants and members of the community/society. Integration is not a linear process and can take place with different intensity and in different directions, including in the opposite direction in case of loss of employment, disability, etc. For a migrant, the integration process involves becoming accepted by society, an equal member of a particular community: a group, a team, a work team, or a local community. Based on a synthesis of various approaches of scholars, the article identifies economic, professional, educational, social, language, cultural and religious, political and legal, civic and status dimensions of migrant integration, which are closely interrelated and influence each other. The problems associated with the integration of migrants and the conditions for their successful economic integration have been identified. In terms of theory, the study develops the concept of migrants’ integration into various spheres of life in the recipient country. The study results can be used to elaborate recommendations for the better employment of migrants’ human capital in recipient countries.
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