The Social Anchors and Social Capital Perspectives of Explaining Albanian Immigrant’s Problems of Social Integration in Germany

Abstract This paper explores the process of social integration of Albanian immigrants in Germany using a quality approach, based on literature review and in-depth interviews. Drawing on sociological concepts of social anchor and social capital, the study analyzes the challenges and opportunities migrants face during this process. Through the cross-thematic analysis it is found that the migrant interviewed resulted to experience difficulties in getting ties with German natives or even to keep strong networks with Albanians. Regarding literature review, this means they have built weak social capital and social anchors, that produces difficulties in their economic, socio-cultural and legal integration process. Among the strongest challenges of integration were language barriers, the process of equipping curricula, cultural gap between Albania and Germany, high level of bureaucracy in institutions and non-participation of migrants in organized Albanian or German groups. While opportunities that facilitate integration resulted in support from Albanian employment networks, social ties with other communities for economic and social growth, high levels of trust in German institutions and meritocracy, German pro-migrant state policy and opportunities for inclusion in the education system or vocational training and lack of perceived discrimination regarding their ethnic origin. They mainly experienced discrimination due to the perception of Albanian immigrants as poor non-European immigrants, hot-blooded Balkans or Eastern Muslims. The findings show that social connections, community support and integration policy play an essential role in the success of integration.