Work

Local exposure to refugees changed attitudes to ethnic minorities in the Netherlands

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: We investigate the effect of exposure to refugees on locals’ preferences with regard to ethnic minorities using individual-level panel data from the Netherlands. The data combine self-reported preferences with administrative data on the residential locations of the locals and the refugees. The study period is marked by a sudden inflow of refugees in some neighbourhoods. We find that individuals living close to newly installed refugee facilities developed a more positive attitude towards ethnic minorities and became less supportive of anti-immigration parties compared to individuals living farther away. An investigation of mechanisms suggests that the local effect is due to contact between residents and refugees.

Source: The Economic Journal

DOI: 10.1093/ej/ueae080

Authors: Pascal Achard, Sabina Albrecht, Riccardo Ghidoni, Elena Cettolin, Sigrid Suetens

Institutions: Tilburg University, Centre de Recherche en Économie et Statistique, The University of Queensland, University of Bologna

Language: English

Topic: Migration, Refugees, and Integration

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Reduced inequalities, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,499