The Common Basic Principles (CBP) of integration
1. Integration is a dynamic, two-way process of mutual accommodation by all immigrants and residents of Member States.
2. Integration implies respect for the basic values of the European Union by every resident.
3. Employment is a key part of the integration process and is central to the participation of immigrants, to the contributions immigrants make to the host society, and to making such contributions visible.
4. Basic knowledge of the host society's language, history, and institutions is indispensable to integration, enabling immigrants to acquire this basic knowledge is essential to successful integration.
5. Efforts in education are essential in preparing immigrants, and particularly their descendants, to be more successful and more active participants in society.
6. Access for immigrants to institutions, as well as to public and private goods and services, on an equal basis to national citizens and in a non-discriminatory way is an indispensable foundation for better integration.
7. Frequent interaction between immigrants and citizens of the Member States is a fundamental prerequisite for integration.
8. The practice of diverse cultures and religions is guaranteed under the charter of Fundamental Rights and must be safeguarded, unless practices conflict with other inviolable European rights or with national law.
9. The participation of immigrants in the democratic process and in the formulation of integration policies and measures, especially at the local and regional levels, is a key to effective integration.
10. Mainstreaming integration policies and measures in all relevant policy portfolios and levels of government and public services is an important consideration in public policy formation and implementation. The principle of engaging civil society is also endorsed.
12. Developing clear goals, indicators and evaluation mechanisms are necessary to adjust policy, evaluate progress on integration and to make exchange and information more effective, so as to transfer good experience.
Reference:
Jones, H. and Polo, C. (2005) Beyond the common Basic Principles on Integration: The Next Steps. European Policy Centre
