Integration in Denmark

Denmark was the first country in the world to introduce an Integration Act in 1999. The Act was drafted to ensure that newly-arrived immigrants can make the most of their abilities and enjoy equal opportunities with other citizens of Denmark.

Immigrants are offered employment-promoting schemes such as work experience or various trainings to improve their existing qualifications. These integration-targeting options are tailored to the needs of the individual refugee or immigrant. The local authorities can turn to the Ministry of Integration for advice and guidance on how to organise these activities.

Employment among immigrants

Between 2001 and 2004, employment rose by about 15,000 among first and second-generation immigrants  originating from non-Western countries. (This figure is based on register data from the Statistics Denmark.) By 2010, the government aims to increase this number by 25,000.

Friendships conclude immigration

An interview survey carried out by the analysis bureau Catinét Research shows that more and more first and second-generation immigrants have Danish friends. In the first half-year report of 2001, 39% of one-thousand first and second-generation immigrants interviewed mostly had Danish friends or just as many Danish friends as friends with a foreign heritage. Four years later this figure rocketed to 54%.

To find tips on how "to fit in" in Denmark, visit  www.foreignersindenmark.dk or www.nyidanmark.dk (New to Denmark).