Integration or inclusion? The debate on the future in Ticino

Context

TL;DR

• Conference on integration in Bellinzona, April 24, 2026
• 120 projects and 80 partners in Ticino for inclusion
• Experiments in Romandy for inclusive local citizenship

Key facts

• Cosa: Conferenza su migrazione e integrazione
• Quando: 24 aprile 2026
• Dove: Bellinzona, Ticino
• Chi: Swiss Worker Aid
• Importo: 120 progetti attivi
• Progetti: Corsi di lingua, settimane tematiche, progetti culturali
• Esperimenti: Consiglio dei residenti a Vernier e Thonex

In brief

• Experts discuss integration and inclusion in Bellinzona
• 120 active projects in Ticino with 80 partners
• Experiments in Romandie for inclusive citizenship

Key facts

• What: Conference on migration and integration
• When: April 24, 2026
• Where: Bellinzona, Ticino
• Who: Swiss Worker Aid
• Amount: 120 active projects

Immigration is a sensitive topic that divides and unites the population, bringing it to the polls and making politics act. For experts, it is fundamental to understand how integration has taken different forms over the years and, consequently, to change integration strategies if necessary. This Friday in Bellinzona, the Swiss Worker Aid, which works with people of foreign origin, organized a conference on the subject.

"There is no longer a majority group," emphasizes Rosita Fibbi, migration sociologist at the University of Neuchâtel. "The acculturation, the adaptation of newcomers, takes place in a very diversified reality. Therefore, it is on new bases that we must build an integration of society and not of immigrants."

Among today's reflections, there is also a question: is the term integration still current? In the canton, 120 projects are active and the partners are 80. "Integration in Ticino, as in all of Switzerland, is a path and a process that engages us, as Integration Service, every day," says the cantonal delegate Michela Trisconi. "We collaborate with entities, with the municipalities, and also with ordinary structures, therefore with the schools, the social insurance offices, with the idea of making a series of rights and offers accessible to the entire resident population but also to foreigners."

Language courses and participatory projects

From integration to social cohesion, we talk about language courses, thematic weeks such as the one against racism, or participatory and cultural projects. The exchange of experiences between cantons is important. In Romandie, in Vernier or Thonex, the "Council of Residents" has been experimented. "The idea is to show that it is possible to think of a form of local citizenship that is inclusive, that is not based on statutory distinction, migrant or Swiss citizen," explains Matteo Gianni, political scientist at the University of Geneva. "And that it is possible to co-build common decisions through a deliberative process that in the mentioned cities the institutions will then consider seriously and try to apply."

Those who study the laws and the content of institutional messages addressed to foreigners, such as information on the meaning of integrating into Switzerland, however, have a concern. "It's not that everything is going wrong, but it certainly can go better," notes Filippo Contarini, legal historian at the University of Lausanne. "Because what we are witnessing, we call integration and instead it seems that we are returning to assimilation."

For experts, a solution is to look to the future in terms of inclusion, a more comprehensive concept to address today's society.

Operational details

The Importance of Inclusion

Inclusion represents a broader and more comprehensive concept than integration. While integration may imply a unilateral adaptation by immigrants, inclusion focuses on creating a society where all members, regardless of their origin, can fully participate and feel valued. This approach requires systemic change and greater sensitivity from institutions and society as a whole.

Participatory and Cultural Projects

In Ticino, numerous participatory and cultural projects aim to promote inclusion. These projects range from language courses to thematic weeks against racism, to cultural initiatives involving the local community. The goal is to create an environment where everyone feels an integral part of society, regardless of their origin or legal status.

Experiences in Romandy

In Romandy, experiments like the 'Residents' Council' in Vernier and Thonex show how inclusive forms of local citizenship can be created. These councils allow residents, regardless of their migrant status or Swiss citizenship, to actively participate in decisions affecting their community. Local institutions seriously consider the proposals emerging from these councils, demonstrating a concrete commitment to inclusion.

The Fear of Assimilation

Despite progress, there is a fear that integration policies may revert to assimilationist approaches. This means that instead of promoting a diverse and inclusive society, unilateral adaptation of immigrants to the dominant culture may be encouraged. Filippo Contarini, a legal historian at the University of Lausanne, emphasizes that 'what we are witnessing, we call integration, and instead it seems we are returning to assimilation.'

Towards an Inclusive Future

To address these challenges, experts suggest adopting an inclusion-based approach. This implies not only changes in institutional policies and practices but also a broader cultural shift. Inclusion requires that all voices be heard and valued, creating a society where everyone feels part of a common project.

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Key points

What to do to promote inclusion

To promote inclusion in Ticino, it is essential to adopt a systemic approach that involves all parts of society. Here are some concrete steps that can be taken:

1. Awareness and training: Organize training courses for public and private employees on topics of inclusion and diversity. This can help create a more inclusive work environment and promote a culture of respect and appreciation for differences.

2. Active participation: Create spaces for active participation for residents, regardless of their legal status. This can include the creation of local councils or other forms of public consultation that allow everyone to express their opinions and contribute to decisions that affect the community.

3. Promotion of cultural projects: Support cultural projects that promote diversity and inclusion. This can include cultural events, exhibitions, concerts, and other initiatives that celebrate the richness of cultural diversity.

4. Collaboration between institutions: Collaborate with local authorities, municipalities, and other institutions to promote inclusive policies. This can include sharing best practices, creating support networks, and promoting joint initiatives.

Useful tools

To further explore the topic of inclusion and integration, various online tools can be used. For example, the salary calculator can help better understand the financial implications of integration and inclusion. Additionally, the permit comparator can be useful for those seeking information on residence and work permits in Switzerland.

Conclusion

Promoting inclusion in Ticino requires concrete commitment from all parts of society. Through awareness, active participation, promotion of cultural projects, and collaboration between institutions, it is possible to create a more inclusive and cohesive society. By using tools such as the salary calculator and the permit comparator, useful information can be obtained to address the challenges related to integration and inclusion.

Source: rsi.ch