Socio-cultural integration of refugee children in Norway in everyday life - from professional perspective

Since 2015, the number of refugees has increased rapidly and there are emerging needs for the protections of these populations. Refugee children are especially victims of the brutal conflicts and one of the most vulnerable populations in the world. Refugee children are fragile and sensitive and also hold unwilling memories in vicious events through pre- and post-migration phases. The memories can be caused by future trauma that might negatively influence the well-being of these children. Moreover, refugee children are required to integrate into a new society. Many children are often faced with difficulties and challenges in terms of language acquisition, culture, social adaptation, isolation and separation after their arrival. Success in socio-cultural integration of refugee children general social cohesion that positively affects the well-being of both Norwegian children and non-Norwegian children in a community.This study is a qualitative study based on the results of semi-structured interviews with professionals working with refugee children in Norway. The professionals are either working at nonprofit organisations (NGO) or governmental institutions. The purpose of this study is to examine the challenges and difficulties refugee children experience in everyday life in Norway. The main results of the study indicate that there are cultural, social, academic and linguistic challenges. Especially, the lack of networks in schools and communities decrease children’s opportunities to participate in social activities with Norwegian peers. As a result of a lack of interaction with Norwegian children, many of the refugee children experience difficulties in establishing friendships and integrating well into a new environment. Moreover, Norwegians are less careful about the cultural and religions backgrouds of refugee children; as a consequence, many children experience feelings of isolation, separation, discrimination and other negative emotions. The conclusion is that there is a need to reconsider the structure of integration strategies and education system in order to make refugee children be recognised and understood, and included in a community well