Do Assigned Locations Enhance or Worsen the Well-Being of Refugees?

The mental health of refugees is an urgent concern, significantly influenced by traumatic experiences in their countries of origin, the hardships faced during migration, and challenges encountered upon arrival, including asylum processes, economic instability, and discrimination. Despite its importance, this area remains underexplored, often relying on generalized survey data that neglects the unique experiences of refugee populations. This study seeks to illuminate how locational characteristics affect the mental health of refugees, focusing specifically on the roles of co-ethnic networks and local hostility towards refugees in the Netherlands, where refugees are randomly allocated across the country.

Leveraging the quasi-random allocation of refugees and utilizing comprehensive administrative data for the period between 2014 and 2022, we investigate whether the density of co-ethnic communities within residential municipalities provides essential social support, potentially alleviating mental health issues. In contrast, we hypothesize that local hostility, reflected in electoral support for anti-immigrant parties, may worsen mental health challenges. Our analysis will examine national election data, particularly voting patterns for the pro-migration party and the anti-migration party, to gauge local sentiments toward refugees.

Mental health outcomes are assessed through an analysis of prescription data, focusing on adults (18+) receiving anti-depressants and anxiolytics. For child refugees (ages 10-18), we will also consider prescriptions for psycho-stimulants for ADHD. By exploring the interplay between community characteristics and mental health outcomes, this research aims to provide insights into effective support strategies for refugee populations, ultimately enhancing their well-being and integration into host societies.