Interdisciplinary Science Reviews
Volume 44, Issue 3-4, 2019, Pages 328-341

Spatial interaction and security: a review and case study of the Syrian refugee crisis (Article)

Frith M.J. , Simon M. , Davies T.* , Braithwaite A. , Johnson S.D.
  • a Department of Security and Crime Science, University College London, London, United Kingdom
  • b Department of Government, University of Essex, London, United Kingdom
  • c Department of Security and Crime Science, University College London, London, United Kingdom
  • d School of Government and Public Policy, University of ArizonaAZ, United States
  • e Department of Security and Crime Science, University College London, London, United Kingdom

Abstract

Sir Alan Wilson's ideas have been highly influential in the modelling of phenomena including migration, transport and economics. Latterly, research has explored the application of similar ideas to new problems at larger scales. Many of these studies relate to global challenges with significant policy implications. Here, we present an example in the form of original empirical work concerning forced migration associated with the current Syrian refugee crisis. We employ a spatial interaction framework to examine the flows of migrants fleeing Syria and the characteristics which influence their choice of destination country. In line with the broader literature, we find that shorter distances, economic prosperity, and cultural similarity (e.g. shared language) attract forced migrants, as does the probability of being granted asylum; a finding with potential implications for policy. Contrary to expectation, we find little influence for levels of security in potential host nations (e.g. absence of terrorism). © 2019, © 2019 Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining Published by Taylor & Francis on behalf of the Institute.

Author Keywords

Conflict spatial interaction Refugees Migration

Index Keywords

Shared language Spatial interaction Economic prosperity Global challenges public policy Social Sciences conflict Refugees migration Policy implications
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85075584285&doi=10.1080%2f03080188.2019.1670439&partnerID=40&md5=4e7c3caa87bec7da5d22659bce70acfb
DOI: 10.1080/03080188.2019.1670439
ISSN: 03080188
Original Language: English