New Integration Decree links civic orientation and integration

The new Flemish Integration and Civic Orientation Decree was drafted on the proposal of the Flemish Minister for Civic Orientation, Geert Bourgeois (N-VA). The Decree reforms the integration and civic orientation sector in Flanders, inseparably linking civic orientation and integration to one another. This is achieved through a better coordination between the individual guidance of newcomers (civic orientation) and wider social initiatives aimed at the integration of new Flemish citizens (integration). Another important change is the higher level of language skills. The 'Dutch as a Second Language' component of the civic orientation programme will include language level A2, in addition to language level A1. Minister Bourgeois has earmarked EUR 12 million for this purpose.