THE ROLE OF TRUST IN THE SOCIAL INTEGRATION OF IMMIGRANTS

Abstract

The paper relies on a unique international comparative study focusing on the political integration of immigrants in large European cities. The study analysed the degree of interest in politics, levels of political knowledge and political participation among immigrants and examined the perceived trust in institutions of the relevant home and host countries and people in general. In this analysis we begin by exploring a few general questions on trust and some that apply specifically to the situation of migrants. We then consider the degree of trust potential across various migrant groups, how the host country and the microclimate of the residential area affect the level of trust, and how specific ethnic backgrounds influence trust. We attempt to establish different types of trust concerning the general trust in people, institutions and the faith in one’s own ethnic group. Finally, we consider how and whether trust as capital serves successful integration and settling down.