Integration Flashcards
What is assimilation in the context of migration?
Assimilation involves migrants stripping their own culture and fully adopting the host society’s values, often leading to a surrender of cultural identity.
Define multiculturalism.
Multiculturalism is the presence of different cultures in one society, promoting coexistence and the preservation of cultural differences rather than enforcing a uniform identity.
What are some criticisms of multiculturalism?
Cultural relativism – All cultural practices are seen as equally valid, sometimes leading to conflicts with fundamental human rights.
Social cohesion – Emphasis on differences may create isolated enclaves.
Perceived threat to national identity – Some argue multiculturalism dilutes national identity.
What is integration?
Integration is a two-way process where migrants and host societies adapt to each other, embracing diversity while removing barriers to participation.
How has cultural diversity been historically addressed in Irish policy?
Until recently, cultural diversity was not a major feature of Irish policymaking or public debate (Dept. Justice, 1997).
What does WHISC stand for, and why is it significant?
WHISC = White Hetero Irish Settled Catholic—it represents the perceived national norm in Ireland (Tracy, 2000).
What did the 2000 “Integration: A Two-Way Process” report emphasize?
It stressed that integration involves both duties on refugees and support from the host society to remove barriers while allowing cultural identity preservation.
How did Brian Lenihan (2007) propose a “middle way” for Ireland’s migration policy?
He suggested a balanced approach between the excesses of multiculturalism and assimilation, similar to Ireland’s mix of European and American socio-economic models.
What are common indicators of integration?
Labour market access
Housing and social services
Education
Political participation
Cultural and social inclusion
Demographic changes (mortality, fertility, etc.)
Why is religion a key issue in Irish education for integration?
98% of primary schools and 60% of secondary schools have a Catholic ethos.
Until 2018, the baptism barrier prevented unbaptized children from attending some Catholic schools
What are some challenges in integrating migrant children into Irish schools?
Language support, intercultural education, and combating racism.
Why is the Irish healthcare system considered intercultural?
In the 2000s, 11,000 foreign nurses and midwives (mainly from the Philippines and India) arrived.
1/3 of doctors and dentists were foreign-born.
What are major challenges for migrant healthcare integration?
Language barriers and understanding the system
Cultural differences in healthcare practices
Discrimination against foreign healthcare professionals and patients
Insurance for non-EU (EHIC)
What role does the Garda Racial and Intercultural Office (GRIO) play?
Trains Gardaí on racial, ethnic, religious, and cultural diversity.
Works to improve trust between ethnic minorities and law enforcement.
What issue arose with Ethnic Liaison Officers (2001)?
Initially, their dual role as immigration officers created mistrust, leading to a separation of responsibilities.
Why is underreporting of racial crimes an issue in Ireland?
Lack of training among Gardaí.
Victims’ reluctance to report.
Poor data collection on hate crimes
How did the 2004 Citizenship Referendum change birthright citizenship?
Before 2004, anyone born on the island of Ireland was entitled to Irish citizenship (jus soli). After the referendum, at least one parent had to have three years of prior residence in Ireland.
What are the requirements for naturalisation in Ireland?
Be at least 18 (or born in Ireland).
Have five years of residence (three for refugees, asylum seekers’ time doesn’t count).
Be of “good character.”
Intend to reside in Ireland.
Who can vote in Irish elections?
Irish citizens → All elections
British citizens → All except presidential/referendum
EU citizens → Local & European elections
Non-EU citizens → Local elections only
What issue did Brian Killoran (2018) highlight regarding migrant representation in politics?
Although migrants can run for local elections, few do. In 2014, only 31 migrants ran, while a proportionate number would be over 100 councillors.
What government initiatives were introduced to combat racism?
1998: National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism (NCCRI).
1999: Equality Authority & Tribunal.
2000: Irish Human Rights Commission.
What was the National Action Plan Against Racism (NAPR) (2005-2009)?
A four-year programme promoting anti-racism, with a budget of €900,000 (compared to €2.6 million for a similar initiative in Northern Ireland).
Why were anti racism programs cut?
Because of economic downturn and integration measures lacked priority. Though they have been restarting since Covid.
What was the key message of Ireland’s Migrant Integration Strategy (2017-2020)?
Integration is not automatic—it requires ongoing efforts from migrants, public institutions, employers, NGOs, and society as a whole.
