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Why Do People Flee? Revisiting Forced Migration in Post-Saddam Baghdad

Author

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  • Duygu Ozaltin

    (University of Kent)

  • Farah Shakir

    (United Learning)

  • Neophytos Loizides

    (University of Kent)

Abstract

When faced with political violence, why do some people choose to leave their homes while others stay? This article looks for motivations, particularly socioeconomic factors, behind decisions to stay or go. Drawing on new survey data from post-Saddam Baghdad, it confirms the general axiom that violent conflicts cause people to flee. However, the results are inconclusive in terms of the effect of socioeconomic circumstances as a major push or pull factor. Patriotism does not have an impact on migration intentions, and optimism about Iraq’s future does not suffice as a pull factor. Interestingly, people who intend to flee Iraq are better educated, contrary to the general far right media portrayal of refugees.

Suggested Citation

  • Duygu Ozaltin & Farah Shakir & Neophytos Loizides, 2020. "Why Do People Flee? Revisiting Forced Migration in Post-Saddam Baghdad," Journal of International Migration and Integration, Springer, vol. 21(2), pages 587-610, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:joimai:v:21:y:2020:i:2:d:10.1007_s12134-019-00674-z
    DOI: 10.1007/s12134-019-00674-z
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