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The Ethnicity of Refugees (ER): A new dataset for understanding flight patterns1

Author

Listed:
  • Seraina Rüegger

    (ETH Zurich, Switzerland)

  • Heidrun Bohnet

    (Bonn International Center for Conversion, Germany)

Abstract

Introducing a new cross-national dataset on the ethnicity of refugees, covering the years 1975–2009, this study analyzes refugee flight patterns. We argue that the asylum destination of refugees is not haphazard but determined by trans-border ethnic linkages. Building on migration theories, we elaborate a theoretical framework for the direction of refugee movements, which includes spatial, temporal and cultural pull factors. The statistical results suggest that refugees flee to nearby countries with ethnic kin populations and a history of accepting other co-ethnic refugees. Thus, sub-national refugee characteristics, such as ethnicity, are essential to understanding the flight direction of refugees.

Suggested Citation

  • Seraina Rüegger & Heidrun Bohnet, 2018. "The Ethnicity of Refugees (ER): A new dataset for understanding flight patterns1," Conflict Management and Peace Science, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 35(1), pages 65-88, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:compsc:v:35:y:2018:i:1:p:65-88
    DOI: 10.1177/0738894215611865
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    References listed on IDEAS

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