Article summary with Refugee crisis in Europe: determinants of asylum seeking in European countries from 2008–2014 by Kang - 2021

Introduction

Kang (2021) examines the factors driving asylum applications in European countries between 2008 and 2014, a period encompassing the "refugee crisis." He challenges the "pull factor" narrative that solely emphasizes economic incentives, arguing for a more nuanced understanding of both push and pull factors.

Methodology

The study employs regression analysis using data on asylum applications, economic indicators, political variables, and geographical proximity for 28 European countries. The analysis differentiates between various political push factors, including democracy scores, human rights ratings, and the presence of civil war.

Results

• Push factors:
  • Political instability, measured by lower democracy scores and worse human rights ratings, significantly drives asylum seeking.
  • Civil war in origin countries significantly increases asylum applications.
• Pull factors:
  • Economic factors like higher GDP per capita and lower unemployment rates in destination countries have a positive, but smaller, effect on asylum applications compared to push factors.
  • Geographical proximity between origin and destination countries also attracts asylum seekers.
• Business cycle: Unemployment rates in both origin and destination countries do not significantly affect asylum applications, suggesting these flows are less sensitive to short-term economic fluctuations compared to labor migration.

Conclusion

The study challenges the overemphasis on economic pull factors, demonstrating that political instability and conflict are more powerful drivers of asylum seeking in Europe. It highlights the need for nuanced policies that address not only border control but also the root causes of displacement and persecution.

Discussion

• The findings call for policymakers to prioritize conflict resolution, human rights promotion, and support for refugees in their regions of origin.
• The study acknowledges potential limitations, such as potential endogeneity issues and the complexity of disentangling individual motivations.
• It encourages further research exploring the specific mechanisms through which push and pull factors interact to influence asylum decisions.

Overall

This study provides valuable insights into the complex determinants of asylum seeking in Europe. By moving beyond the "pull factor" narrative and highlighting the importance of political push factors, Kang contributes to a more informed and comprehensive understanding of the refugee crisis and its causes.