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Economic Strain, Ethnic Concentration and Attitudes Towards Foreigners in the European Union

Author

Listed:
  • Gang, Ira N.

    (Rutgers University)

  • Rivera-Batiz, Francisco L.

    (Columbia University)

  • Yun, Myeong-Su

    (Inha University)

Abstract

This paper provides a statistical analysis of the determinants of attitudes towards foreigners displayed by Europeans sampled in Eurobarometer surveys in 1988 and 1997. Europeans who compete with immigrants in the labor market have more negative attitudes towards foreigners. In addition, an increased concentration of immigrants in local neighborhoods increases the likelihood of negative attitudes. Racial prejudice exerts a strong influence on anti-foreigner sentiment. The generally rising trend towards greater racial prejudice, and the decline in the strength of educational attainment in reducing negative attitudes towards foreigners, contribute to the increasing anti-foreigner attitudes between 1988 and 1997.

Suggested Citation

  • Gang, Ira N. & Rivera-Batiz, Francisco L. & Yun, Myeong-Su, 2002. "Economic Strain, Ethnic Concentration and Attitudes Towards Foreigners in the European Union," IZA Discussion Papers 578, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp578
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    probit decomposition; ethnic concentration; labor force status; anti-foreigner; sentiments towards migrants; racial prejudice; attitudes;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • J15 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Minorities, Races, Indigenous Peoples, and Immigrants; Non-labor Discrimination
    • J61 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Mobility, Unemployment, Vacancies, and Immigrant Workers - - - Geographic Labor Mobility; Immigrant Workers
    • F22 - International Economics - - International Factor Movements and International Business - - - International Migration

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