Integration in Canada: A systematic review of the youth experience

•Immigrant youth are integrating successfully into Canada.•Immigrant youth face systematic and interpersonal discrimination.•More focus is needed on immigrants’ cultural and social contributions.•Current research and policy often promote assimilation.•Inclusion and multiculturalism are required for integration. Although there is substantial research examining adult perspectives of immigration and integration, there is notably less data on youth attitudes and experiences. When youth are surveyed, a preliminary review of the existing literature reveals that non-immigrant voices are very rarely included. This systematic literature review (a) identifies the major themes and summarizes the findings of existing research; (b) determines gaps in the existing literature and; (c) proposes recommendations for future integration research, policy, and interventions. Ultimately, this paper finds that integration policy and research in Canada tends to focus on the changes required by immigrant youth but rarely discuss the cultural adaptation and inclusion required by settled Canadians. A paradigm shift in research, settlement practice, and policy is necessary to better reflect the bi-directional cultural exchange and the mutual responsibilities of integration.