7. Migration

Because of its mining history, Genk experienced several waves of immigration. First from Poland and the Ukraine, then from Italy and later still from Turkey and Morocco. This makes about one third of the population of ethnic background. The Italian community is the largest and comprises about 10,000 people. In Genk there are about 85 different nationaltiies. This makes Genk a multi-cultural city. Most people in Genk have grown up with the situation and have no problems with it. Populations of cities that have no mining past seem more negative and speak about Genk as an immigrant city. A poll from 2000, however, showed that the people of Genk do not support this point of view. Genk's multicultural character also shows in its religious buildings with christian churches, orthodox prayer houses and mosques.