The integration of Syrian refugees represents a great challenge both in Slovenia and in the European Union. This issue has been chosen as a response to the wave of refugees that, among other countries, also hit Slovenia and caused some nationals to develop distrust of refugees. Syrians have a different religion from the majority of Slovenians and for this reason, people fear the islamisation of Europe. Citizens are also worried about their safety as they believe that refugees will increase the risk of terrorist attacks, take their jobs and only come to stay in the country to drain the national budget.
The analysis of the data gathered through the interpretation of primary and secondary sources as well as an unstructured interview shows that citizens’ fear of refugees is unfounded. As the integration is a two-way process, the active participation of citizens of the host country is particularly important. Professionals believe that a successful integration is essential, but can only take place when people are not afraid of refugees. Because the fear comes from the people’s lack of knowledge, the media should convey a more positive image of refugees to the nationals of Slovenia. Refugees are mainly young people and their participation could present an excellent opportunity for the ageing Slovenian population.
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