How do refugees affect social life in host communities? The case of Congolese refugees in Rwanda

Comparative Migration Studies

Özge Bilgili¹  Melissa Siegel²  Craig Loschmann²  Veronika Fajth³ 

[1] ERCOMER, Utrecht University;Maastricht Graduate School of Governance & UNU-MERIT, Maastricht University;School of Social Policy, University of Birmingham;

关键词: Forced migration;    Impact of migration;    Refugees;    Community integrated approach;    Social cohesion;    Trust;   

DOI  :  10.1186/s40878-019-0139-1

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Abstract This paper investigates how social dimensions of life in local communities are affected by the long-term presence of Congolese refugees in Rwanda, paying particular attention to feelings of safety, social networks and trust. To gauge whether increased probability of interaction with refugees reduces cohesion, these outcomes are compared across local households at varying distances from a refugee camp. This paper is based on mixed methods approach including new data originating from a household survey conducted in host communities surrounding three refugee camps, as well as information from focus group discussions. The quantitative analysis shows no statistically significant differences between host communities with the exception of informal social networks, which are higher in communities closer to refugee camps. However, qualitative evidence illustrates how greater (economic) interaction between the two populations helps increase trust between refugees and host communities over time. Moreover, locals argue that economic and social support given to refugees plays a key role in reducing and preventing conflict between the two groups. These findings map the experiences and give voice to host communities’ perspectives on social life in their community.

【 授权许可】

Unknown