The publication examines the challenges and dynamics of migration and linguistic integration in contemporary societies, with a particular focus on Slovenia. It explores how increasing diversity and the presence of plurilingual individuals are reshaping communication practices and social interactions. The text highlights the central role of language policies in shaping immigrants’ opportunities for integration and in defining the expectations of majority communities regarding language use and communication. It emphasizes that integration is influenced not only by the abilities and willingness of immigrants to acquire the national language but also by political decisions and societal attitudes that determine access to language learning resources.

In Slovenia, recent policy developments have tightened language requirements for immigrants, including mandatory Slovene proficiency for employment, family reunification, and permanent residency. While measures such as increased access to formal and informal Slovene language courses exist, their implementation is often constrained by public procurement processes that prioritize cost over quality. The publication underscores the resulting paradoxes in public and institutional attitudes: while human rights and multilingualism are promoted in principle, restrictive language policies persist in practice. This tension highlights the gap between ideological commitments to inclusion and the real-world experiences of immigrants, some of whom feel marginalized or face discrimination.

The publication also situates Slovenia’s experience within a broader European context, comparing its language integration policies to those of neighboring countries. It explores the multiple dimensions of linguistic integration, from systemic and institutional measures to practical tools for language assessment and classroom approaches. Both immigrants’ and educators’ perspectives are included, illustrating the social, professional, and humanistic aspects of integration. Overall, the publication presents linguistic integration as a complex, multifaceted process shaped by social, political, and institutional factors, emphasizing its essential role in fostering inclusive participation and social cohesion in increasingly diverse communities.