One-Stop-Shop for Immigrant Integration: Concept Analysis on the Example of Welcome Office Vaasa

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is twofold: to explore the concept of a one-stop-shop for immigrant integration and, based on it, present a theoretical framework for establishing, maintaining, and improving an institution of such kind. Additionally, given the relative novelty of the concept and the subsequent scantiness of sources covering it, this thesis aims to illuminate the purpose, logic, and benefits of such an institution for anyone interested in public initiatives for addressing and meeting immigrants' needs—more so considering the current influx of immigrants in Finland.

The research was conducted at the premises of the partner institution, Welcome Office Vaasa—the one-stop-shop for immigrant integration—during the author's internship and employment. The thesis idea emerged from the work experience and, given its nature and goal, was decided to be materialized by conducting qualitative research incorporating different analysis methods—chiefly, the grounded method. The research questions also delineate the critical segments of the concept: how is a one-stop-shop for immigrant integration established; who are the service providers and their competencies; what are the services provided and their effect; and what are the qualities of the professional network? The thesis is based on data from international literature, the documentation received from the partner institution, the author's work experience, and the interview with the Welcome Office's supervising service advisor.

The thesis delivers an overview of a one-stop-shop for immigrant integration, analyzing its critical segments framed as research questions through various corresponding themes. Similarities between the examples for the international literature and the Welcome Office are drawn, with the author elucidating the implementation of the related themes. Finally, the thesis proposes the principles for establishing, maintaining, and improving the institution. The main results of the research are the following conclusions: the institution is established based on the needs of immigrants and in a dialogue with them, following a certain set of values and principles of service provision; the service providers—as multi-skilled professionals—thrive in an inclusive environment fostering their further professional development; the service provision is holistic, empowering, digitalized, and documented; and finally, the professional network—guided by the principle of reciprocity—is extensive and allows advocating for the service users.

Keywords: immigrant, immigrant integration, one-stop-shop for immigrant integration, service advisor, services, professional network