Policy Shapes Integration of Syrian Refugees: Amsterdam Active, Seoul Passive
Syrian refugees feel more at home in Amsterdam than in Seoul. This is the conclusion of sociologist Kyohee Kim’s PhD research, in which she compared the living conditions and integration experiences of Syrian newcomers in both cities. Her main finding: differences in policy and social attitudes largely determine how welcome refugees feel.
In Amsterdam, initiatives like Startblok Riekerhaven and SET IJburg provide housing and support to help Syrian refugees integrate. Seoul, on the other hand, lacks targeted policies, leading to isolation and heavy reliance on the refugees' own Syrian communities.
According to Kim, the structure of Amsterdam’s housing projects encourages the development of social connections and a sense of belonging within Dutch society. In SET IJburg especially, valuable relationships form with local residents, resulting in positive experiences and a broader sense of home. In Startblok Riekerhaven, interaction with neighbors was more limited, but the independent housing still offered a stable foundation.
The situation in Seoul is quite different. Syrian refugees there often withdraw into their own communities, such as in the neighborhood known as Car Town. Due to the absence of integration policies and local support, they remain largely separated from South Korean society. “The feeling of belonging is missing,” Kim says.
Her research shows that integration requires more than just shelter: policy choices, local initiatives, and societal openness play a crucial role. Kim urges policymakers to look beyond temporary solutions. “The degree of integration is largely shaped by how welcome refugees are allowed to feel in their new environment.”
More information on the thesis
