In terms of data, Whole-COMM has collected extensive data on migrant integration policies and social cohesion in a sample of 46 localities (rigorously selected through a theory-driven case-selection strategy) across 10 countries. Fieldwork in these localities has been carried out in subsequent stages. First, to study integration policies, governance and their drivers, and local practices and structures of support for migrant integration we conducted desk-based research and in-depth analysis of policy documents, we collected 598 interviews with actors involved in local integration governance, and 371 surveys filled in by the same interviewees to reconstruct actors’ relations. Second, to study social interactions between local residents and newly arrived refugees and migrants’ experiences of integration we conducted participant observation, focus groups with both migrants and local residents, and 329 interviews with refugees. Third, to study public attitudes to migrant integration in small localities, we developed a large-N survey with local residents living in both cities and small localities in Austria, Germany, Italy and Sweden.
As to the project outputs, we produced different types of documents targeting different types of audience:
i. policy community: Whole-COMM released 5 policy briefs with detailed policy recommendations on local integration policy. We also designed a toolbox for local policymakers who are willing to develop inclusive policies on migrant integration. We also designed an intervention (‘walking tours’ on changes in local communities) – potentially replicable across the different countries and towns – aimed to foster positive social relations and interactions between long-term residents and migrants and we tested it in four localities.
ii. academic community: Whole-COMM has published 29 country reports, 4 comparative reports, and an inventory on available statistical data related to immigrant integration in small localities. In addition, Whole-COMM researchers have published 8 peer-reviewed articles in prestigious academic journals (13 additional articles are currently under review), and 5 book chapters. Four special issues linked to the project are forthcoming in academic journals.
iii. wider public: Whole-COMM has published 32 blog posts, 7 videos about migrant integration in local communities and 3 infographics summarizing its key results.
Finally, Whole-COMM has developed extensive dissemination and communication activities. Activities targeting the policy community have aimed to disseminate the projects’ key policy recommendations in local communities and among key EU policy actors. We convened a Policy Community Lab in Florence and a Working group workshop in Brussels which both brought together stakeholders from government, academia, civil society, and the private sector, and a Transatlantic Community Lab in Toronto with European and North American scholars and policymakers. We also conducted local workshops engaging local stakeholders and participated in several policy events at the EU level. Whole-COMM's Final Conference was organized in Brussels in collaboration with the European Committee of the Regions. As to the scientific community, Whole-COMM researchers organized special sessions and workshops, and gave presentations, in several academic conferences.
