Positive report for refugee integration packages

The government’s integration packages for refugees in Switzerland are being used to good effect, according to a report by the Federal Audit Office. However, some support measures could be improved. Switzerland invests more than CHF80 million ($80.1 million) annually in the integration of refugees. This spring, the federal government adopted a new plan with the cantons aimed at enabling refugees and asylum seekers to enter the workforce more quickly. The package amount should increase from CHF6,000 francs to CHF18,000. From next year, annual federal funds could go up to CHF210 million from the current CHF132 million. The Federal Audit Office welcomed the implementation of the integration agenda, which it says confirms the need for the federal integration package.  Currently, the overall integration offer is sufficient for most cases, but improvements are possible in areas such as measures to adapt disability insurance, and the recognition of diplomas. More psychological and ...