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Socioeconomic Integration through Language: Evidence from the European Union

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  • Daniel Reiter

    (University of Graz, Austria)

Abstract

In this paper, I explore the role of language for a sustainable socioeconomic integration of migrants in the European Union. Building upon insights concerning the emergence of shared mental models through social learning mechanisms, I argue that language is substantial, not only for simple communication, but also to effectively transmit and decrypt expectations, opinions and ideas. This is of considerable importance for integration processes, since shared mental models enables a common interpretation of reality, which facilitates any further social interaction. This works all the more smoothly if individuals originate from the same sociocultural background and share a common language. If not, as in case of migration, immigrants as well as natives face several issues. Some of this I demonstrate empirically with data from the European Union Labour Force Survey. I show that for first-generation male and female migrants within the EU, language problems significantly reduce the probability to be in paid work. Additionally, they increase the probability to be overqualified.

Suggested Citation

  • Daniel Reiter, 2020. "Socioeconomic Integration through Language: Evidence from the European Union," Graz Economics Papers 2020-15, University of Graz, Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:grz:wpaper:2020-15
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    File URL: https://unipub.uni-graz.at/obvugrveroeff/download/pdf/9634249?originalFilename=true
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Shared mental models; Language skills; Migrants; Labour market participation; Overqualification.;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C36 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Instrumental Variables (IV) Estimation
    • J15 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Minorities, Races, Indigenous Peoples, and Immigrants; Non-labor Discrimination
    • Z13 - Other Special Topics - - Cultural Economics - - - Economic Sociology; Economic Anthropology; Language; Social and Economic Stratification

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