Socio-professional Integration of Recent Immigrants in Quebec: The Role of Information and Social Networks
The goal of massive immigration in Canada and in Quebec is essentially to thwart the ageing active population and labour shortages. Like Canada, Quebec has adopted a policy of economic immigration where most people of selected are young, have relatively high education levels and speak French and/or English. However, professional integration has been more difficult for recent immigrants compared to previous cohorts. Many studies including government reports associate socio-professional integration difficulties with language barriers, the non-recognition of achievements and skills, discriminatory practices and the lack of social networks. These often mention the importance of having the pertinent information, that helps newcomers integrate the labour market quickly and in a way that corresponds to their expectations. The goal of this article is to reflect on the nature, role and impact of informational flows conveyed by different social networks on socio-professional integration from the beginning of the migratory project, the arrival in Quebec. Studies that analyze the impact of social capital on socio-professional integration focus on structural characteristics of information networks rather than on the quality of the relations themselves. Yet, the nature of these relations influences the behaviour and strategies of individuals who receive information. What information is essential to successful socio-professional integration? What are the factors that can accentuate informational gaps? How can informational flows circulated by different networks influence immigrants’ socio-professional integration processes? To answer these questions, we shall first describe the main difficulties faced by recent immigrants in Quebec. Then, the article analyses informational fluxes that orient immigrants’ social and professional integration processes, and rethinks the role played by social networks in the circulation of information. Finally, the conclusion suggests further research orientations for immigration and integration public policy.