Journal of Immigrant & Refugee Studies最新文献

Abstract

Are politicians more responsive to foreign citizens if they have the right to vote? To examine this question, we exploit regional variation in voting rights for foreign citizens in Switzerland. Our original audit experiments find no evidence that local politicians are more responsive to foreign citizens depending on whether foreign citizens have the right to vote. Another survey suggests that local politicians are not strongly motivated by reelection. Although our findings are preliminary, given the small sample size, they may indicate that responsiveness at the local level may differ from the national level.

Abstract

We explore the role of personal values in the experiences and endeavors of a good life among Hmong and Somali former refugees who have resettled in the United States. Using thematic analysis of semi-structured qualitative interviews, we first identify and examine personal values central to their sense of a good life. With a person-centered analysis, we then highlight patterns showing how different values are related to one another in former refugees’ statements of a good life. We highlight how former refugees’ life experiences may lead them to hold motivationally opposing values that typically do not coexist as value priorities.

Abstract

This research examines the consequences of bilateral agreements that Israel has signed with different countries. It also examines agreements signed by Israel with foreign construction companies, bypassing employment arrangements established by the Israeli government. The results indicate that the bilateral agreements have succeeded in significantly reducing the brokerage fees. However, it is not possible to determine the degree to which these agreements contribute to the protection of the rights of the employees. In comparison, the arrangements with the foreign construction companies which bypass the bilateral agreements could enable exploitation and human trafficking, which the bilateral agreements have managed to reduce.

Abstract

Urban refugee and asylum seeker (URAS) identities are negotiated amidst the complex social and psychological dynamics of internal and external factors. This article explores identity negotiation processes amongst Pakistani urban refugees and asylum seekers (PURAS), living in Bangkok, Thailand. The article presents data from 22 qualitative semi-structured interviews with PURAS, which were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using in-depth thematic analysis. Participant responses revealed that identity negotiation processes amongst PURAS, are characterized by various modes of identity dissonance in relation to social status and family roles, and identity distancing from Pakistani, and refugee and asylum seeker (RAS) identities. The paper adds to the broader picture of refugee and asylum seeker disempowerment by highlighting identity negotiation as yet another area of disadvantage that is shaped by the contours of the socio-political context.

Abstract

We use Census microdata for 2016 to investigate migrants’ labor market outcomes in Ireland, a ‘new’ country of immigration. EEA migrants can live and work in Ireland without restriction: for non-EEA migrants, immigration is strictly managed. EEA East European men and women have low unemployment rates but very low rates of professional/managerial employment. Non-EEA migrants tend to have higher unemployment rates but also high rates of work in professional/managerial occupations. Migrants from countries with high asylum flows are especially disadvantaged in the labor market, particularly men. Black respondents have poorer labor market outcomes than Whites, regardless of origin country or migration motive, but not Asians. We reflect how policies governing migration and asylum in Ireland affect who comes to Ireland and their labor market outcomes.

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the daily life experiences of stateless Afghans in Iran and to describe their resilience strategies that enabled them to manage life deprivations. Using narrative analysis, we interviewed 34 individual stateless Afghans in Iran. Four main themes were identified in their daily life experiences: ignored as nonexistent, second-class Muslims, institutional discrimination, and unpredictability of the future. In terms of resilience strategies, three main themes emerged: cohesive community support, the role of religion, and ideological exploitation. Policy improvements are suggested to decrease discrimination and law amendments to provide a legal presence for Afghans residing in Iran.

Abstract

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic led the Italian government to enact a regularization programme, the first in eight years, which also allowed asylum seekers to switch from a humanitarian to an employment-based status. This study sheds light on how this re-categorization opportunity was concretely experienced by (potential) applicants by examining 21 in-depth interviews with key stakeholders and Salvadorean asylum seekers. Drawing on emerging literature on uncertainty and temporality, we argue that the institutional uncertainty characterizing the programme compromised Salvadorian asylum seekers’ ability to act strategically toward the attainment of a less precarious status.

Abstract

It is well-documented that border controls make migration journeys riskier for people on the move. Policymakers construe deaths in migration journeys as resulting from the individual risk-taking attitudes of migrants. However, risks involved in migration journeys are not only related to border control measures. Based on the analysis of 30 semi-structured interviews conducted with Syrian and Afghan migrants in Turkey, we embrace a social constructionist approach to unpack how migrants form their aspirations based on their risk perceptions. Our findings explain why some migrants would still move onwards despite violent borders while others stay or search for “safer” ways for onward migration.

Abstract

Contextual diversity is considered a prime source of perceived threat from immigrants. Contact theory by contrast suggests that diverse contexts decrease threat by offering opportunities for intergroup contact. Empirical evidence largely shows the effect of positive or negative contact while in reality casual contact, i.e., superficial involuntary contact that does not feature close relationships, is the predominant form of contact. Using data from Turkey on attitudes toward Syrian immigrants, we show that when casual contact is frequent, threat perceptions rise. Our findings invite revisions to the scope conditions of contact theory and the mechanisms behind conflict theory.