The “Integration Problem”: A View from the Rocking Chair

How do public organisations cope with integration tasks in times of crisis? Known examples reveal at least two coordination mechanisms. One is that organisations go beyond their formal area of responsibility. After all, a crisis situation is by definition so uncertain and changing that no authority can follow their own routines and norms of conduct. The second coordination mechanism is to show determination and moral stance from the top. A moral leadership from the top promotes responsible collective action. Importantly, they need to bridge understandings in efforts to achieve integration to the extent desired by individuals as it has proven to be impossible to “integrate” groups or classes.