Problem

Migration processes are closely related to risk of social exclusion, which is broadly defined as exclusion from participation in key societal mechanisms, such as economic, social and political systems. As a consequence of immigration, there are people who have limited possibility to participate in these systems due to existing barriers both on the side of immigrants and receiving society. Newcomers are usually disadvantaged in terms of language skills, knowledge of their new social environment and, hence, their skills may not be applicable or formally acknowledged. Some barriers are set purposely by the legislation of the host society with the intention to regulate migration; some may be an unintended consequence of the application of social norms and values. The evidence shows that Czech public policy and legislation do not create adequate conditions for social integration of foreigners. Due to a strict regulation, legal participation on the labor market is often difficult and sometimes even detrimental for migrants. Some migrants are thus pushed into irregular activities.       

                                          Objectives of the Project

The main objective of the project is an analysis of both the position of the immigrants on the labor market in the Czech Republic and an analysis of the process of social integration. The research will be oriented mainly towards:
(a) Evaluation of the role of migrants on the labor market in the Czech Republic
(b) Identification of problems of various groups of migrants in the process of their integration on the labor market and into the host society
(c) Research of migrants’ strategies
(d) Evaluation of the role of public institutions and policies relevant for immigrants and their work and social integration
(e) Development of relevant indicators for monitoring of institutions, whose activities influence social integration of immigrants and formulation of recommendations for improvements of their functioning

                                          Purpose of the project

Good conditions for participation of all social groups, including migrants, in the life of society are important preconditions for a successful process of social integration. To a great extent the success depends on interaction of the key actors in the integration process – migrants, employers and public institutions.

The purpose of the project is to support the improvement of quality and the development of effective integration mechanisms on the national as well as local levels. This objective will be achieved by recognition of existing barriers to social integration and the implementation of new knowledge in the field of (a) public policies, mainly immigration and integration policies, (b) implementation of these policies and (c) attitudes and strategies of immigrants themselves.