Why do refugees live near to each other? A utility-based model for spatial segregation of Syrian refugees in Türkiye: 2016–2023 period


Akgül T., Elitaş Z.

International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy, 2024 (ESCI) identifier identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Basım Tarihi: 2024
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1108/ijssp-08-2024-0383
  • Dergi Adı: International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus, IBZ Online, International Bibliography of Social Sciences, Periodicals Index Online, ABI/INFORM, Criminal Justice Abstracts, Political Science Complete, Public Affairs Index, Social services abstracts, Sociological abstracts, Worldwide Political Science Abstracts
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: Dissimilarity index, Refugees, Simulation, Spatial segregation, Utility function
  • Anadolu Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Purpose: The main purpose of this research is to understand and explain the clustering and/or segregation patterns of the rapid, massive and unexpected flow of Syrian refugees to Türkiye. Design/methodology/approach: The analytical framework we use consists of three parts. In the first stage, we created a two-group model in which utility is assumed to be a function of consumption and the proportion of the population belonging to the same group living in their neighborhood. We show that equilibrium utility can be reduced to a univariate function that is the population proportion of the group to which one belongs. Then, with the help of a Python-based simulation, we analyze the redistribution dynamics of the groups and clustering patterns. In the final stage, we compute the dissimilarity index to determine the degree of clustering. Findings: Although the dilution policy has been implemented, a relatively high spatial segregation of refugees still exists. The dissimilarity index we compute using the latest data shows that almost half of Syrians need to be displaced for a homogeneous geographical distribution. Research limitations/implications: By obtaining neighborhood-based housing data, it will be possible to conduct a more detailed analysis at the city level. This will improve policymakers' understanding of refugee policy at both local and national levels. Originality/value: It is the first study in which a dissimilarity index is computed for Syrian refugees in Türkiye.