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Self-selection on human capital for Ukrainian refugees in Belgium

Author

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  • Berlinschi, Ruxanda
  • Verhaest, Dieter
  • Poelmans, Eline
  • Adriaenssens, Stef

Abstract

This study documents self-selection on human capital for Ukrainian refugees. We compare the socio-demographic characteristics of a representative sample of Ukrainian refugees who registered in Belgium in the fall of 2022 with those of the Ukrainian population before the war. Contrarily to previous studies, we find negative self-selection on human capital, particularly for men and for refugees arriving from the low conflict intensity regions of Ukraine. At the same time, refugees from the low conflict intensity regions arrive with more locally-specific human capital, such as knowledge of the French language, previous visits to Belgium, and access to social networks in Belgium. Such self-selection, driven by individual incentives - economic and patriotic - has societal benefits, such as reduced brain drain for Ukraine and improved job matching in European countries offering protection.

Suggested Citation

  • Berlinschi, Ruxanda & Verhaest, Dieter & Poelmans, Eline & Adriaenssens, Stef, 2025. "Self-selection on human capital for Ukrainian refugees in Belgium," GLO Discussion Paper Series 1591, Global Labor Organization (GLO).
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:glodps:1591
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Russia-Ukraine war; refugees; human capital; self-selection;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • F22 - International Economics - - International Factor Movements and International Business - - - International Migration
    • F5 - International Economics - - International Relations, National Security, and International Political Economy
    • H12 - Public Economics - - Structure and Scope of Government - - - Crisis Management

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