Language/Norwegian-bokmal/Culture/Immigration-and-integration
As a Norwegian Bokmål language teacher of 20 years, I understand how important it is to not only learn the language but also to understand the culture and society of Norwegian Bokmål speakers. In this lesson, we will explore contemporary issues related to immigration and integration in Norwegian Bokmål-speaking societies. As complete beginners in the language, it is important to understand the challenges and opportunities facing immigrants and refugees in these societies.
Take a moment to explore these relevant pages as you conclude this lesson: Social norms and etiquette in Norwegian Bokmål speaking societies & Central Norway and Trøndelag.
Current State of Immigration
Norway has a history of being an open and welcoming country to immigrants and refugees. However, the country has become stricter in recent years due to a growing rise in far-right ideology that opposes immigration. Despite this, Norway continues to be one of the most successful countries in integrating immigrants into its society. Norwegian Bokmål-speaking societies aim to provide a framework for integration that ensures equal rights and opportunities for everyone.
According to Statistics Norway, as of October 2020, there were 764,000 immigrants and 177,500 Norwegian-born to immigrant parents living in Norway. This accounts for 14.1% of the total population. The largest immigrant group in Norway is from Poland, followed by Lithuania, Sweden, Somalia, and Syria.
Challenges Faced by Immigrants
While Norway provides support for immigrants and refugees to integrate into society, there are still many challenges that they face. These include:
- Language barriers: Norwegian Bokmål is a complex language, making it difficult for immigrants to learn and communicate effectively.
- Employment: Even though there is a high demand for skilled workers in Norway, immigrants still face challenges in finding jobs due to language barriers, cultural differences, and discrimination.
- Housing: Many immigrants face challenges finding affordable housing, particularly in large cities like Oslo.
- Discrimination and Xenophobia: As with any country, there are individuals who hold negative attitudes towards immigrants and refugees, resulting in discrimination and xenophobia.
As a Norwegian Bokmål language learner, it is important to understand these challenges and how they impact immigrants' lives. Being empathetic and understanding can help create a more inclusive society.
Integration Policies in Norway
The Norwegian government has implemented policies to help immigrants integrate into Norwegian Bokmål-speaking society. Children of immigrant parents are given the right to attend public schools and are given access to free education. Norwegian language classes are provided to immigrants, and the government offers a range of social services to help newcomers. In addition, the government has also put in place laws that prohibit discrimination based on ethnicity, religion, and sexual orientation.
Vocabulary
Here are some important vocabulary words related to immigration and integration:
| Norwegian Bokmål | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Innvandring | ['ɪnːvanrɪŋ] | Immigration |
| Kvoteflyktning | [kʋʊˌteːflyktnɪŋ] | Quota refugee |
| Flyktning | [flʏktːnɪŋ] | Refugee |
| Asylsøker | [ˈɑsylsøːkər] | Asylum seeker |
| Statsborgerskap | [stɑːtsbɔrɡərs.kɑp] | Citizenship |
| Integrering | [ɪntɛɡrɛrɪŋ] | Integration |
| Diskriminering | [dɪskrɪmɪnɛrɪŋ] | Discrimination |
| Kultur | [kɵl'tyːr] | Culture |
Conclusion
Immigration and integration are complex issues faced by Norwegian Bokmål-speaking societies. While there are challenges, the Norwegian government and society as a whole work hard to ensure that immigrants and refugees are given the support they need to integrate and succeed in Norwegian Bokmål-speaking society. As learners of the language, it is important to understand and respect the challenges faced by immigrants and refugees, and to be welcoming and inclusive members of Norwegian Bokmål-speaking society.
With this lesson finished, you may want to explore these additional pages: Environmental issues & Oslo and Eastern Norway.
Other Lessons
- Northern Norway
- Central Norway and Trøndelag
- Norwegian Bokmål art, literature, and music
- Norwegian Bokmål cuisine
- How to type special characters
- Social norms and etiquette in Norwegian Bokmål speaking societies
- Environmental issues
- Gender and sexuality
- Contemporary Norwegian Bokmål culture