The Art of Mixing Colors : the Concept of Multiculturalism in School Education as a Tool for Young Immigrant Integration

Abstract: The present paper discusses the process of young immigrant integration from the point of view of policymakers. The focus in narrowed to application of multiculturalism in pre-primary, primary and secondary education strategies as a tool for integration. Interpretation of multiculturalism is compared in two countries – Germany and Sweden and on two levels – national and supranational. The paper is constructed on a critical analysis of the available European and national policies, reports and work papers based on five carefully chosen criteria, which are relevant for the educational process and integration. Furthermore, the paper presents the general background on the development of integration and education policies in the European Union, Germany and Sweden and explores the possible means for cooperation and information exchange. The paper’s main findings read that lately the issues of integration and education as a valuable tool for young immigrant integration has been receiving increased attention. At the same time, a lot of problems connected to immigrant education remain pending, irrespective of the efforts spent. Due to distinct perception of immigrants and roles of the host societies in the integration process, the application of multiculturalism is quite different in the two countries. Because education lies in the sphere of responsibilities of particular member-states and as there are very few available means for control and monitoring, the European Union policies and recommendations have general character. However, within the framework of European Union separate member-states have increasing opportunities for collaboration and joint elaborations.