Towards the emergence of new modes of integration?

Focusing on the new dynamics of inclusion and exclusion is important for both theoretical and empirical reasons. Existing studies address the issues raised by discriminatory discourse and practices, and the resurgence of assimilationist policies. There is a need, however, for a more detailed analysis of the feed-back effects of these trends. What is the nature of migrant mobilization (religious, political, professional, cultural, or mixed)? What is the scope of this mobilization (local, national, transnational?). What are the effects of this mobilization on the current framing of integration measures? Answering these questions suggest to take into account that migrant and minority communities are not passive but active actors. This paper addresses the emergence of new forms of integration after a decade of ‘securitization’ in Europe and in the United States. Based on an examination of comparable historical examples, this paper focuses on the role immigrants and other minorities can play in the formulation and implementation of an effective desecuritization policy. First, it presents the various recently developed theoretical approaches in order to evaluate if and how the end of the “politics of exception” is possible. Second, it identifies the relevant actors involved in de-securitization processes and the different strategies aimed at decoupling immigration and terrorism. The core argument is that, a decade after 9/11, a comprehensive analysis of the securitization process (through political discourse and public policies) must include a systematic and critical evaluation of the evolution of ethnic minorities in terms of (a) socio-economic integration; (b) political mobilization (from civic participation to protestation); (c) identity politics.