Abstract
Immigrants labour is a major economic factor in many Alpine regions. At the same time, small settlements, distinct economic profiles and strong local cultures make migration and integration processes in the Alps special. In the two regions (Aosta Valley and South Tyrol in Italy), the situation of immigrants was closely investigated and measures to improve it implemented. In Aosta Valley an online system of about 100 indicators was established and is maintained by the regional statistics office. The system brings together existing statistics from various sources in a common database. It measures the level of integration of immigrants in dimensions such as quality of their social interaction or their impact on the local community. The system of indicators was designed and realized in a collaboration of welfare services, municipal administration and researchers. In South Tyrol a survey reaching some 20% of the immigrant population in the model region was carried out, gathering information on migration motivations, employment, language proficiency, social integration and expectations towards the local community. In focus groups of local administration and professionals linked to migration issues, awareness-raising measures were prepared for implementation. These measures include the publication of the survey results, a press article series, a travelling exhibition and cultural events related to the home countries of immigrants.