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, cilt.44, sa.13/14, ss.1-15, 2024 (ESCI)

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 44 Sayı: 13/14
  • 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
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.1-15
  • 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 Turkiye. 

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 Turkiye. 

Keywords Spatial segregation, Refugees, Dissimilarity index, Utility function, Simulation


Paper type Research pape