Migration is a global phenomenon that all countries are facing. Therefore, the migration of
third-country nationals to the European Union is an issue we have been facing for many
years. Shortly after joining the European Union, Slovenia adopted a Regulation on the
Integration of Foreigners, which sets out the modalities and conditions for the integration
of immigrants into social life. One way to integrate is by participation in integration
programmes. Knowing both the language and the culture of the host country is the first
step towards realization of the wish for a better life.
The aim of the master’s thesis was to find out why foreigners decide to participate in the
programme Integration of immigrants, what are their expectations regarding the
programme and how the participation affects the results when taking the Slovenian
language exam at the basic level. I was also interested in the success of Slovenia's
integration policy compared to the integration policies of selected countries (Sweden, the
Netherlands and Canada).
The results base on the analysis of existing literature, laws and regulations, the analysis of
reports and the situation in Slovenia and selected countries. They are supported by the
survey and interviews with participants and immigrants in Slovenia, Netherlands and
Canada. I came to conclusion that the programs are effective and have a positive impact
on the success when taking the exam, but that Slovenia’s integration policy lags behind the
integration policies of the selected countries.
The results will contribute to the development of further programs and the implementation
of existing ones. The results are also useful for local environments and the wider society.
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