The New Role of 'Host Countries' Played by Traditional Countries of Emigration: The Experience of Italy

Abstract

The objective of this article is to argue that in order to successfully address the issue of integration of migrants, both voluntary and involuntary, countries need to abandon concepts of nation-state and nationalism and embrace policies of multiculturalism and active citizenship. The article specifically deals with new immigrant-receiving countries and provides the example of Italy where new policies have been adopted to deal with the integration of newcomers. Despite these efforts, hurdles are still present in the Italian immigration system. Nonetheless, it must be acknowledged that the approach espoused by Italy towards immigration is positive in that it favours integration without total assimilation. The Italian approach reflects the multiculturalism policy framework adopted by Canada, which in the opinion of this author is still the most successful policy model in addressing issues of integration and diversity.