Problematizing "Integration" : a critical discourse analysis of integration policy and practice for refugees in Norway

Abstract

The predominant story of asylum seeking in Norway is one that describes an exponential explosion of growth throughout the past century, depicting a country that was once homogenous, and is now increasingly “multicultural”. The Norwegian government has developed strategies for how to reconcile difference between the “Norwegian society”, and those arriving from “elsewhere”. Within the past four decades, the term “integration” has taken center-stage as the dominant approach towards reconciling this difference. This study analyses what is meant by the term integration, how it is outlined within current policy, and how it is interpreted and implemented at ground-level. A textual analysis is conducted of the aims of the new integration law (Integreringsloven), and conversations are conducted with those working with this law. Through this, processes that promote assimilationist goals, exacerbate inequalities amongst refugees, and create a dichotomy between a paternalistic, modernist Norwegian nation-state and the “other” it must teach how to act, are identified. In addition, disconnects are identified between motivations shaping policy creation and desires of those bound to work by these policies. Though positive developments in policy are discussed, this study makes suggestions for how creating counternarratives and rejecting the processes listed above can contribute to a more wholistic and meaningful approach to integration and center the subjective desires of refugees themselves.