(Re) conceptualization of integration monitoring methodology

The methodology report summarized the results of a short study aimed at reviewing the current organization and methodology of Estonian integration monitoring and thereby clarifying the organization and general principles of the monitoring for the period 2020-2030.

The survey included 20 interviews with 21 field experts, collected feedback on the current use / application of monitoring results in 18 areas of government or work, mapping theses on integration, Estonian survey surveys related to integration, existing theoretical frameworks and questions on monitoring .

The report concluded that integration monitoring should place greater emphasis on highlighting long-term trends. Comparison of monitoring data from previous years with new waves allows us to observe long-term trends, highlight both positive and negative developments, but also stagnation (which can sometimes be positive in certain changed circumstances), which in turn serve as a basis for decision-makers. Monitoring also identifies areas where active intervention may not be necessary anymore.

Instead of the current policy recommendations section of the monitoring report, it makes more sense to highlight issues and issues that require further analysis and / or research. In other words, topics that emerge from the analysis of monitoring data, but which cannot be further explored in the context of monitoring, but where different ministries / government agencies can commission additional analyzes and / or researchers and students to analyze their research (research recommendations). In addition, it is important to summarize the most important field studies, reports, etc., published in recent years, in order to provide a complete picture.

Monitoring must become a gateway to a broader understanding and understanding of the field of integration in the future, which will also provide pointers and opportunities for advancement to topic-based in-depth and / or (applied) research. As monitoring is also an instrument that influences the attitudes of different parties and societies, it is important that the report also highlights the common ground that emerges from the analysis, rather than focusing solely on (national) differences and issues.