Factors Affecting the Integration of Migrants and Features of Social Work among Migrants in Finland

Abstract

This article focuses on the social integration of migrants in Finland, a country accepting a considerable number of immigrants in recent years. The process of social adaptation can be challenging since most of immigrants do not speak Finnish, do not share cultural values and traditions with Finns, and are not included in many social support networks. Furthermore, the status of ethnic minorities also generates social problems including discrimination in everyday life as well as limiting employment opportunities. This paper outlines the questions facing immigrants in Finland and state programs aimed at social integration. The central issue of governmental support lies in the employment of immigrants. The employment of immigrants in Finland represents a rather complex challenge given that specific barriers exist such as language, the invalidity of diplomas received outside Finland, few labor experiences outside Finland, and labor market discrimination. Furthermore, living in a new country often leads to changes in social roles within migrant families between spouses and between children and their parents. Such changes can lead to the emergence of psychological issues including crises in family relationships. Help to overcome the social and psychological challenges connected to integration into a new social environment stands as the main objective of social work among immigrants. In Finland, social work with immigrants is based on a culturally sensitive approach, which respects the other culture and acknowledges how one’s own culture affects work with migrants.