Date of Award

Fall 12-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

International Studies

First Advisor

Nancy Rios-Contreras

Second Advisor

Victoria Carty

Third Advisor

Joshua Liashenko

Abstract

The goal of this study is to examine the impact of refugee resettlement programs on local communities in the United States, focusing on New York City. This study explores how complex dynamics of refugee integration shape the socio-economic, cultural, and political dynamics of host communities. New York City, being a diverse urban city center, the high number of refugees significantly influenced the city’s dynamic cultural landscape, with an estimate of 8.468 million migrants from different cultural backgrounds (Rida, 2023). Resettlement programs facilitated by a network of nonprofit organizations, and governmental agencies, provide essential services - employment related training, housing, and language assistance. However, these programs also face challenges like strain on local resources, lack of affordable housing, and the complex socio-political dynamic of integrating diverse refugee populations into local communities (Philip et al. 2021).

This study employs a mixed method to examine how refugee resettlement programs affect socio-economic dynamics, and cultural diversity within the host city. Research data was gathered through semi-structured interviews with local stakeholders, refugees and members of the local community to provide insights into the study, and this was supplemented by quantitative data and media content analysis. The research findings highlight both the opportunities and challenges presented by the resettlement programs and offer insights into the long-term effects on the city's neighborhoods, social services, and community dynamics. This study contributes to the going debate on refugee integration and how host communities navigate the complex dynamic of resettlement. This research aims to inform policymakers, and resettlement agencies on the importance of creating inclusive and effective resettlement programs beneficial to both refugees and host communities.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.

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