Integration agreements in Europe and implications for Germany

Integration agreements are intended to make immigrants more accountable through contractually fixed obligations and incentives, thereby promoting their integration into society and the labour market. This article presents different models of such agreements in France, Denmark, Austria, Italy and Switzerland and derives recommendations for action in Germany. 

With its Contrat d’intégration républicaine, France is focusing on a combination of compulsory courses, language tests and individual needs assessments. Denmark integrates integration agreements into a municipally controlled system that relies on individual programmes and regular evaluations. Austria and Italy pursue more standardised approaches: while Austria has a two-stage modular system with language and values tests, Italy combines contractual obligations with a points system that creates incentives for language courses, work and social engagement. Switzerland uses integration agreements flexibly and differently from canton to canton.

There are currently no binding integration agreements in Germany. A pilot project running from 2011 to 2013 was limited to voluntary agreements without sanctions. The current coalition agreement now provides for the introduction of binding agreements that clearly define rights and obligations. The constitution does not stand in the way of integration agreements. They would combine elements already required under residence law: language requirements, knowledge of the law and society, and a commitment to the free democratic basic order.

Integration agreements should not be linked to the expectation that they will bring about profound changes in the short term. Nevertheless, practical examples show that such agreements do have the potential to be effective in terms of integration policy. Their effectiveness depends on clever legal design, a nationally coordinated framework and, above all, individual counselling and support. Without these elements, the instrument risks becoming a mere formality. Incentive systems, regular evaluations and close integration with existing structures are crucial to success.

Read the entire Monitor: „Integration per Vertrag? – Integrationsvereinbarungen in Europa und Ableitungen für Deutschland“ here as a PDF. Please note, to date the analysis is only available in German.