This report examines indicators currently used to assess migrant integration across the Nordic Region. In light of increasing migration, the ability of national statistical systems to capture relevant dimensions of integration including social participation and civic engagement has become essential for evidence-based policymaking. While structural aspects of integration are well-documented, social integration dimensions are often overlooked despite their critical importance for social cohesion. Nordic countries do show commitment to monitoring integration outcomes, but their approaches and indicators vary significantly across the region.
This report aims to answer two research questions:
- What types of indicators for social and civic integration of migrants are currently used by National Statistical Institutes in the Nordic Region? And what are their principal strengths and limitations?
- What improvements can be made to the measurements of migrants’ integration, including the social and civic integration?
By addressing these questions, the report aims to provide a comparative overview of current practices within national statistical institutes, identify methodological and conceptual challenges, and propose pathways for enhancing the utility of integration indicators. The findings contribute to a broader understanding of how statistical systems can better support integration governance in the Nordic context through the development of more comprehensive, consistent, and policy-relevant measurement frameworks.
The report shows that more multidimensional assessment frameworks might improve understanding of integration dynamics. This could potentially involve developing more targeted indicators, addressing methodological constraints, and additional funding to better support evidence-informed policy development.
Four recommendations for stronger integration measurement
- Understand integration as a multidimensional and evolving process.
- Optimise existing data sources.
- Recognise integration as a bidirectional, relational process.
- Strengthen Nordic cooperation.