Achieving social cohesion: impact of insecurity, fear and racism on migrant integration

Abstract

In many Western nations with high numbers of immigrant intake there are public debates casting doubt on the § The levels and success of integration of newly arrived migrants § The success or failure of multicultural policies § The threat that migrants from different cultures and religions pose to national identity, national values and social cohesion. This paper explores the linkages between immigrant integration and social cohesion in light of current questioning of multiculturalism, immigration intake programs in the context of a climate of war on terror, racial profiling and racism. Drawing on her own research from Australia, the author excavates the preconditions for successful integration of immigrants and unpacks the relationship integration to social cohesion. The paper will examine the key settlement and issues facing migrants, refugees and asylum seekers in Australia; identify the role that 'fear' plays in preventing successful integration of immigrants (both from the point of view of the newly arrived immigrant and also host society); examine what impact racism, racial profiling, stereotyping directed at particular groups that are deemed as being a 'risk' (e.g. Muslims, Africans or asylum seekers) on this groups' inability' to integrate; analyse the impact of the discussion on national values and national identity on the creation of a socially cohesive society; and review the role of government in creating social cohesion. The paper will conclude with an exploration of good practice in communities to build social capital, resilience and capacity and a discussion of possible ways forward to develop strategies to build social cohesion in multicultural societies.