Introduction: rethinking integration. New perspectives on adaptation and settlement in the era of super-diversity

This article outlines key arguments and contributions pertaining to new perspectives on the adaptation and settlement of migrants under conditions of super diversification and ongoing migration ‘crisis’. We seek to re-ignite interest in the conceptual the development of the concept of integration and to stimulate theoretical and research advancement beyond the normative integration paradigm. Given the growing complexity, acceleration of changes and increased interconnectedness across societies as well as diversification of migrants, patterns of migration and modes of operation we argue that the concept of integration, and the ideas that underpin thinking around migrants’ adaptation and settlement more generally, need to be reconsidered. Highlighting a number of different ways of thinking about migrant adaptation and settlement we account not only for the multi-dimensionality of integration processes, but also for the diverse nature of migrants and how their multiple characteristics of individuals shape integration opportunities and challenges. Using perspectives from multiple countries in relation to both voluntary and forced migrants within and outside of the EU, this paper offers a range of theoretical and methodological insights into how the complexity associated with super-diversity might be captured and outlines new ways of conceptualising integration. The article It also sets up new research agenda around notions lying behind the concept of integration such as the integration of transnational or transit populations, integration within fluid and super-diverse communities or the relationship between integration and intersectionality with the focus on multi dimensions dimensionality, relativeness and modalities of social relations.