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Labor Market Integration of Refugees: RCT Evidence from an Early Intervention Program in Sweden

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  • Matz Dahlberg
  • Johan Egebark
  • Gulay Ozcan
  • Ulrika Vikman

Abstract

This study uses a randomized control trial to evaluate a new program for increased labor market integration of refugees. The program introduces highly intensive assistance immediately after the residence permit is granted. The early intervention strategy contrasts previous integration policies, which typically constitute low-intensive help over long periods of time. We find positive effects on employment of the program. The magnitude of the effect is substantial, corresponding to around 15 percentage points. Our cost estimates suggest that the new policy is less expensive than comparable labor market programs used in the past.

Suggested Citation

  • Matz Dahlberg & Johan Egebark & Gulay Ozcan & Ulrika Vikman, 2022. "Labor Market Integration of Refugees: RCT Evidence from an Early Intervention Program in Sweden," Papers 2203.00487, arXiv.org, revised Nov 2023.
    • Handle: RePEc:arx:papers:2203.00487
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    1. Gathmann, Christina & Garbers, Julio, 2023. "Citizenship and integration," Labour Economics, Elsevier, vol. 82(C).

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • C93 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Field Experiments
    • J08 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - General - - - Labor Economics Policies
    • J15 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Minorities, Races, Indigenous Peoples, and Immigrants; Non-labor Discrimination
    • J23 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Labor Demand
    • J61 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Mobility, Unemployment, Vacancies, and Immigrant Workers - - - Geographic Labor Mobility; Immigrant Workers

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