Effects of Forced Migrants on Native Host Economies in Iraq

Date Presented:

Abstract:

Using time series data compiled from various in-country assessments, this thesis aims to surface the effects of discriminatory labor policies in Iraq, specifically those against displaced individuals including Iraqi internally displaced persons (IDPs) and Syrian refugees. The thesis finds that sub-districts with higher rates of labor integration—i.e., allowing displaced individuals to obtain labor permits and work within the local economy—observe higher wages for host community individuals and higher overall economic performance, contrary to the standard belief that unskilled migrant workers lead to localized wage depressions.