Concepts of Integration in the Population

In a representative survey, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation analyzed the population’s preferences on integrating immigrants. In the center of the analysis is the comparison of Germans without a migration background, Germans with a migration background, and foreigners.

Multiculturalism, as a concept whereby the host society is primarily responsible for ensuring equal opportunities for immigrants and locals, does not receive widespread support among the population. There is broad agreement that immigrants should learn the German language. Cultural adaptation is also expected, albeit not with the same emphasis. On the other hand, a narrow concept of assimilation, according to which immigrants should amalgamate with the host society, does not enjoy strong support either. People mostly share a moderate concept. Immigrants are expected to adapt to a considerable extent though not completely. Germans without a migration background are generally interested in reaching out to immigrants, thereby supporting integration.

Attitudes toward integration are quite similar among Germans without a migration background, Germans with a migration background, and foreigners. The three groups agree to a similar extent that immigrants should learn the German language and tend to adapt culturally. The influence of immigrants on culture is widely viewed as balanced or enriching.

Across different attitudes, three approaches to integration emerge:

• The first group, the integration open have an attitude characterized by tolerance and the expectation of assimilation to some degree. They expect language acquisition and some cultural assimilation. At the same time, they do not find visible cultural differences unpleasant and tend to be interested in interacting with immigrants.
• The integration active also expect immigrants to learn the German language, but they are more reserved when it comes to cultural adaptation. In return, interacting with immigrants is particularly important to them.
• The third and smallest group, the integration demanding, believe that immigrants have a particular obligation to adapt, while those who demand integration are themselves reserved when it comes to interacting with immigrants.

Read the entire analysis: ‘Integrationsvorstellungen in der Bevölkerung – Repräsentative Umfrage über Vorstellungen zum Zusammenleben von Zugewanderten und Einheimischen’ here as a PDF. Please note, to date this publication is only available in German.