Systematic Review of Integration and Radicalization Prevention Programs for Migrants in the US, Canada, and Europe

Abstract

Background: International migration processes are some of the most important events of our time. Migrating implies a broad range of factors that affect integration, and which may be linked to radicalization. Host countries use different methods for the integration of migrants. The aim of this systematic review is to analyze intervention programs that aim at promoting social integration and preventing the radicalization of migrants, with the objective of studying actions carried out in the US, Canada, and Europe to this effect.Method: Worldwide known bibliographic databases (PsyCINFO, Sociological Abstracts, Psycarticles, Psychology Database, Medline, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar) were used to search studies published before January 2019 and which analyzed integration or radicalization prevention programs with migrants.Results: A total of 601 studies were screened, from which 18 met the inclusion criteria. The analysis of programs addressed to migrant women points to a decrease in loneliness and depression and an increase of migrants' perception of social support and self-esteem. Programs carried out in schools and families improve children's knowledge of their culture and that of others, increase their feelings of inclusion, and reduce their aggressiveness, stress, and anxiety. Language programs promote communication and employment search, as well as improve migrants' quality of life. One of the most effective activities included in these programs is to connect recently arrived migrants with local population and/or long-term residents. The latter act as mentors and teachers, helping recently arrived migrants understand resources and to be more integrated in the new country, as well as reducing discrimination from the local population.Conclusions: The review concluded the importance of intervention programs for integration, migrants' quality of life, prevention of extreme behaviors, and intercultural cohabitation. Future programs must be more detailed regarding participants' information and carry out more comprehensive assessments.

An ID card allowing access to municipal services for migrants with precarious status in Montreal and its influence on social inclusion: a mixed method study

“…Other studies have shown that participating in social activities created opportunities for social engagement and led to the formation of new social ties, acting as important sources of social support for individuals (CCSDH, 2015; Kauffman, 2021; Mamatis et al , 2019). Although this study did not assess the ID card’s impact on health, it has been widely reported that through increased social ties and social support comes a reduction in social isolation and depression and better mental health outcomes (Del Pino-Brunet et al , 2021; Fakhoury et al , 2021; Mamatis et al , 2019; UNDESA, 2016). Thus, increased participation in society may not only lower the risk for social exclusion by fostering social ties but has the potential to promote health and well-being for MPS living in communities with ID card programs.…”

“…In addition, findings showed that participants who used the ID card were more likely to perceive increased control/independence in their lives and have more opportunities for civic engagement, indicators of enhanced empowerment (Trezona, 2019). A systematic review by Del Pino-Brunet et al (2021) found that through civic engagement, migrants tend to experience higher levels of self-confidence and self-esteem, which can enhance perception of agency over one’s life circumstances. Other studies have further linked civic engagement with better physical and psychological health benefits, including greater life satisfaction (Jenkinson et al , 2013; Swaner, 2007).…”

“…Interviews corroborated this whereby the card’s lack of official status greatly inhibited participants’ ability to feel safe, particularly in terms of police interactions. Adverse effects of feeling insecure have been reported in multiple studies as migrants being at increased risk of experiencing stress, social isolation, poor mental health and lower self-rated physical health (Cloos et al , 2020; Del Pino-Brunet et al , 2021; Hawkley and Cacioppo, 2010). Therefore, increasing MPS’ sense of safety through officialization of the ID card becomes a vital policy issue.…”

“…Precarious immigration status inherently restricts the legal rights of individuals and limits access to social services, often resulting in social exclusion (Del Pino-Brunet et al , 2021; Fête et al , 2019; Goldring et al , 2009). For instance, MPS across Canada are deemed ineligible by federal immigration laws from obtaining government-issued identity (ID) cards such as provincial driver’s licenses and health insurance cards, directly restricting access to social services (Cloos et al , 2020; Mamatis et al , 2019).…”

School-Based Interventions for Migrant Students in the Framework of the Health Promoting Whole-School Approach: An Umbrella Review

“…Effectiveness has been assessed for various categories of outcomes since this strategy can impact many levels. More specifically, the findings have shown significant reductions in the symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, hyperactivity and functional impairment [9,31,32,35]. Positive results have also been shown for general well-being, emotional adjustment, and relational problems [9].…”