A joint inform from the European Migration Network (EMN) and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) explores how civic training courses for third-country nationals (TCNs) are being implemented across 25 EMN Member and Observer Countries. Titled ‘Implementation of measures for civic training as an important tool for integration of third-country nationals’, the report highlights the role of these courses in equipping migrants with essential skills and knowledge for their social, cultural, and political integration.
Effective integration of migrants is central to successful migration management in Europe. Civic orientation courses provide third-country nationals with an understanding of the host society’s norms, values, rights, and obligations. In the countries surveyed, most training programs aim to foster social inclusion, improve understanding of societal responsibilities, and promote active participation in public life.
The approaches to implementation of the training programs vary by country. In 14 of the countries, a single ministry oversees these programmes, while other countries, municipalities play a significant role, as seen in the Netherlands, Finland, and Sweden. Financing for civic orientation also varies. In some countries it is provided by public authorities, while in others, as e.g. Austria and Belgium (Flanders), participants are required to contribute financially.
The content of civic orientation courses is tailored to meet the needs of third-country nationals, with four core elements at the heart of the programs: understanding the political, social, and cultural context of the host country; learning the rules, rights and obligations; promoting integration; and ensuring access to equal opportunities. Illustrating the tailored approach of these efforts, countries such as Estonia have modified these programs to address the needs of specific groups, including entrepreneurs and students. While most countries offer either mandatory or voluntary courses, countries like the Netherlands and France require civic training for those seeking long-term residency. Absence from these compulsory courses can have consequences, including financial penalties or negative impacts on residence status.
Digital learning methods are increasingly common, providing flexibility and accessibility to migrants. France and Poland have developed mobile apps to support course participants, and many other countries offer online and hybrid courses. However, challenges remain in ensuring the effectiveness and engagement in digital learning formats. Despite these hurdles, digital platforms offer cost-effective solutions, especially for countries with dispersed migrant populations.
Most countries adjust training schedules to accommodate participants’ commitments such as work and childcare, with half offering childcare services. Austria and Finland provide gender-specific courses, while Germany caters to participants with disabilities.
Assessing the effectiveness of civic orientation programs has become a priority, with countries employing various methods to measure success. Fourteen countries primarily track attendance, while countries like France have instituted final tests to evaluate participants’ knowledge. Additionally, seven countries use feedback surveys for qualitative insights. Comprehensive evaluations have been conducted in Belgium, Estonia, the Netherlands, and Austria, leading to measures such as extended course durations. Finland and Sweden are also reviewing their programs to inform future policy changes. In total, 16 respondent countries conduct formal evaluations.
The inform ‘Implementation of measures for civic training as an important tool for integration of third-country nationals’ is available in the Publications Section of the EMN website.