The Experiences of Refugees in Host Communities

Purpose: This study sought to examine the experiences of refugees in host communities. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the experiences of refugees in host communities. Preliminary empirical review revealed that refugees encountered multifaceted challenges, including language barriers, discrimination, and limited access to education and employment opportunities, shaping their integration experiences. Positive host community attitudes and inclusive government policies were found to facilitate integration, while negative attitudes hindered social inclusion. Community support networks played a crucial role in fostering refugees' sense of belonging and social cohesion. Overall, the study highlighted the importance of a holistic and rights-based approach to refugee integration, emphasizing collaboration between stakeholders to promote empathy, understanding, and cooperation among host community members and refugees, thus fostering inclusive and resilient societies.

The Experiences of Refugees in Host Communities

INTRODUCTION
Integration level of refugees refers to the extent to which individuals who have fled their home countries due to persecution, conflict, or other factors become accepted and integrated into their host communities.It encompasses various aspects such as economic participation, social inclusion, access to education and healthcare, and cultural adaptation.In the United States, which has historically been a major destination for refugees, integration efforts have shown mixed outcomes.According to by Hainmueller and Hopkins (2014), refugees resettled in the U.S. often face challenges in accessing employment opportunities due to language barriers, lack of recognition of foreign credentials, and discrimination.Despite these challenges, statistics from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services indicate that over 75% of refugees who arrived in the U.S. between 2012 and 2017 were employed within their first five years of arrival (U.S.Department of Health and Human Services, 2019).This suggests a relatively high level of economic integration among refugees in the U.S. (Hainmueller & Hopkins, 2014).
In the United Kingdom, the integration of refugees has also been a topic of interest, particularly in the context of the Syrian refugee crisis.Bloch & Levy (2016) highlights the importance of social networks and community support in facilitating the integration of refugees in the UK.However, there have been concerns about the impact of government policies, such as austerity measures and changes to welfare benefits, on the integration prospects of refugees.Despite these challenges, data from the UK's Office for National Statistics show that between 2012 and 2019, refugees in the UK had higher employment rates compared to non-EU migrants, with around 56% of refugees in employment (Office for National Statistics, 2020).This suggests some degree of economic integration among refugees in the UK.
In Japan, a country with relatively low acceptance of refugees compared to Western nations, integration efforts have faced significant hurdles.Inglis (2018) pointed to Japan's strict immigration policies and cultural homogeneity as barriers to refugee integration.Despite initiatives to increase refugee resettlement, such as the government's acceptance of a small number of Syrian refugees, Japan's refugee recognition rate remains low, with only a fraction of asylum seekers granted refugee status (Inglis, 2018).Consequently, statistics from Japan's Ministry of Justice show that the employment rate among recognized refugees in Japan is relatively low, with only 16.5% of recognized refugees being employed as of 2020 (Ministry of Justice, 2020).This indicates limited economic integration among refugees in Japan.
In Brazil, a country with a long history of receiving refugees from neighboring countries and beyond, integration efforts have been shaped by government policies and civil society initiatives.Oliveira & Furtado (2018) highlights the role of Brazil's humanitarian visa program in facilitating the integration of refugees, particularly from Venezuela and Syria.However, challenges such as language barriers, lack of access to formal employment, and xenophobia have been reported (Oliveira & Furtado, 2018).Despite these challenges, statistics from Brazil's National Committee for Refugees show that between 2012 and 2020, over 70% of recognized refugees in Brazil were employed (National Committee for Refugees, 2020).This suggests a relatively high level of economic integration among refugees in Brazil.
In African countries, which host a significant number of refugees from neighboring conflict-affected regions, integration efforts have been influenced by a range of factors including political stability, economic resources, and regional cooperation.Ong'ayo & Were (2017) emphasizes the importance of inclusive policies and community engagement in fostering the integration of refugees in African host countries.Despite resource constraints and competing priorities, some African countries have made progress in areas such as access to education and healthcare for refugees.However, statistics on economic integration are less readily available for African countries due to data limitations and varying contexts across countries.Nonetheless, anecdotal evidence suggests that refugees in some African countries engage in informal economic activities and contribute to local economies (Ong'ayo & Were, 2017).
Host community attitudes and policies play a crucial role in shaping the integration level of refugees within a given society.The attitudes of the host community towards refugees can significantly impact the social inclusion and acceptance of refugees, while government policies can either facilitate or hinder their integration process.First and foremost, positive attitudes towards refugees, characterized by empathy, openness, and cultural sensitivity, can create a conducive environment for their integration.Esses, Hamilton & Gaucher (2017) suggested that positive attitudes among host community members are associated with greater social support and interaction with refugees, leading to enhanced integration outcomes.Conversely, negative attitudes, such as xenophobia or fear of cultural change, can create barriers to integration by fostering discrimination and social exclusion (Esses, Hamilton & Gaucher, 2017).
In addition to attitudes, government policies play a crucial role in shaping the integration prospects of refugees.Welcoming and inclusive policies that provide refugees with access to education, employment opportunities, healthcare, and social services are essential for their successful integration.For example, Hainmueller & Hangartner (2016) indicated that generous welfare policies and employment support programs can facilitate the economic integration of refugees by providing them with the necessary resources and assistance.Conversely, restrictive policies that limit refugees' access to basic rights and services can impede their integration process and perpetuate social marginalization.Furthermore, the legal framework surrounding refugee resettlement and asylum procedures can significantly impact their integration level.For instance, timely and fair asylum procedures that provide refugees with legal status and protection are crucial for their stability and integration within the host community.Hathaway (2017) emphasized the importance of a robust legal framework that upholds refugees' rights and ensures their access to due process and legal representation.Conversely, bureaucratic hurdles, lengthy asylum procedures, and restrictive immigration policies can undermine refugees' sense of security and belonging, hindering their integration.Moreover, language and cultural integration policies play a vital role in facilitating refugees' integration into the host society.Language proficiency is often a key determinant of refugees' ability to access education, employment, and social services.Therefore, language training programs and cultural orientation initiatives are essential for promoting refugees' linguistic and cultural integration.Research highlighted the positive impact of language courses and cultural orientation programs on refugees' social integration and sense of belonging.Conversely, the absence of such programs or inadequate support for language learning can create barriers to communication and social participation, impeding refugees' integration (Block & Kasinitz, 2017).Additionally, housing policies and practices can influence the integration level of refugees by affecting their living conditions and sense of stability.Access to safe and affordable housing in well-integrated neighborhoods can facilitate refugees' social interactions and community engagement, contributing to their overall integration.Koehler & Schmid (2018) emphasized the importance of housing policies that prioritize refugee housing needs and promote inclusive urban development.Conversely, inadequate housing conditions, overcrowding, and segregation can isolate refugees from the broader community, hindering their integration prospects.Furthermore, education policies play a critical role in facilitating the integration of refugee children and youth.Access to quality education and support services is essential for refugee children to succeed academically and socially, as well as to develop the skills necessary for future employment and civic engagement.Block & Kasinitz (2017) underscores the importance of inclusive education policies that address the specific needs of refugee students and promote diversity and intercultural understanding in schools.Conversely, barriers to education, such as language barriers, discrimination, and lack of support services, can impede refugees' academic progress and social integration (Block & Kasinitz, 2017).Moreover, employment policies and labor market regulations are critical determinants of refugees' economic integration.Access to employment opportunities that match refugees' skills and qualifications is essential for their self-sufficiency and socioeconomic integration.Ruiz & Vargas-Silva (2020) highlighted the role of labor market integration programs, vocational training, and employer engagement initiatives in facilitating refugees' access to decent work.Conversely, discriminatory hiring practices, limited job opportunities, and lack of recognition of foreign qualifications can hinder refugees' economic integration and perpetuate their dependence on social assistance.
Additionally, social inclusion policies that promote intercultural dialogue, community engagement, and mutual respect are essential for fostering positive relationships between refugees and the host community.Simon (2018) emphasized the importance of initiatives that bring together refugees and host community members to foster understanding and cooperation.Community-based organizations and grassroots initiatives play a crucial role in facilitating social integration by providing refugees with opportunities for social interaction, networking, and cultural exchange (Simon, 2018).Furthermore, healthcare policies and access to healthcare services are critical for refugees' physical and mental wellbeing, as well as their overall integration.Equitable access to healthcare, including mental health services and trauma-informed care, is essential for addressing the unique health needs of refugees and promoting their social inclusion.Keygnaert, Ivanova & Guieu (2018) underscored the importance of culturally sensitive healthcare policies and initiatives that address language barriers, cultural beliefs, and past traumas.Conversely, barriers to healthcare access, such as lack of insurance coverage, language barriers, and discrimination, can exacerbate refugees' health disparities and hinder their integration.

Statement of the Problem
The experiences of refugees in host communities are multifaceted and complex, influenced by a myriad of factors ranging from socio-economic conditions to host community attitudes and government policies.Despite the growing body of research on refugee integration, there remains a notable gap in understanding the nuanced experiences of refugees within host communities.According to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), the number of forcibly displaced people worldwide reached 82.4 million by the end of 2020, with the majority living in host communities rather than formal refugee camps (UNHCR, 2021).This trend underscores the urgent need to examine the experiences of refugees in host communities and identify key factors that facilitate or hinder their integration.One of the missing research gaps that this study aims to fill is the lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the specific challenges and opportunities faced by refugees in different host community contexts.While existing studies have provided valuable insights into general trends and patterns of refugee integration, there is a need for more localized and context-specific research that takes into account the unique socio-cultural, economic, and political dynamics of host communities.Additionally, this study seeks to address the dearth of research on the role of host community attitudes and policies in shaping refugee experiences.By examining the interplay between host community perceptions, government interventions, and refugee integration outcomes, this study aims to provide a more nuanced understanding of the factors influencing refugee integration.The findings of this study will benefit multiple stakeholders, including policymakers, humanitarian organizations, host community members, and refugees themselves.Policymakers can use the insights gained from this research to inform the design and implementation of more effective integration policies and programs tailored to the needs of refugees and host communities.Humanitarian organizations can leverage the findings to develop targeted interventions aimed at addressing specific challenges faced by refugees in different host community contexts.Host community members will benefit from a better understanding of the experiences and contributions of refugees, fostering empathy, tolerance, and social cohesion.Finally, refugees themselves stand to benefit from evidence-based interventions and support services that promote their well-being and integration into host communities.

Social Identity Theory
Social Identity Theory, proposed by Henri Tajfel and John Turner in the 1970s, explores how individuals' sense of self is shaped by their membership in social groups and the intergroup dynamics that arise as a result.This theory suggests that people strive to maintain a positive social identity by comparing their group favorably with others and seeking to enhance the status of their ingroup.In the context of refugees in host communities, Social Identity Theory provides valuable insights into the dynamics of intergroup relations and the formation of social identities among refugees and host community members.Refugees may experience challenges in navigating their dual identities as members of both their ethnic or national group and the broader host community, leading to feelings of belongingness or exclusion.Understanding these dynamics through the lens of Social Identity Theory can shed light on the factors that influence social cohesion and integration within host communities (Tajfel & Turner, 1979).

Acculturation Theory
Acculturation Theory, initially proposed by John Berry in the 1980s, examines the process of cultural change and adaptation that occurs when individuals from different cultural backgrounds come into contact with one another.The theory distinguishes between different acculturation strategies, including assimilation, integration, separation, and marginalization, which individuals may adopt to varying degrees depending on their preferences and the context of intercultural contact.In the context of refugees in host communities, Acculturation Theory provides a framework for understanding how refugees navigate the process of cultural adaptation and integration.Refugees may face pressures to assimilate to the dominant culture of the host society, but they may also seek to maintain elements of their own cultural identity.By exploring the acculturation strategies adopted by refugees and their impact on integration outcomes, researchers can gain insights into the complexities of cultural diversity and intercultural interactions within host communities (Berry, 1997).

Ecological Systems Theory
Ecological Systems Theory, developed by Urie Bronfenbrenner in the 1970s, emphasizes the importance of understanding human development within the context of multiple interacting systems, ranging from the microsystem (individual-level factors) to the macrosystem (broader cultural, political, and economic contexts).This theory suggests that individuals' experiences and behaviors are influenced by the dynamic interplay between various environmental factors, including family, peers, community, and societal norms.In the context of refugees in host communities, Ecological Systems Theory provides a holistic framework for examining the multifaceted influences on refugees' experiences and integration outcomes.This approach recognizes that refugee integration is shaped not only by individual-level factors such as personal resilience and coping strategies but also by broader systemic factors such as government policies, community support networks, and societal attitudes towards refugees.By adopting an ecological perspective, researchers can gain a more nuanced understanding of the interconnected layers of influence that shape refugees' experiences within host communities (Bronfenbrenner, 1979).

Empirical Review
Block & Kasinitz (2017) investigated the educational experiences of immigrant and refugee students in the U.S. in the context of federal immigration policy changes.The researchers conducted qualitative interviews with immigrant and refugee students, teachers, and school administrators to explore the challenges and barriers faced in accessing and succeeding in education.The study found that uncertainty surrounding immigration policy negatively impacted the educational experiences of immigrant and refugee students, leading to increased stress, fear, and insecurity.Additionally, changes in immigration enforcement practices resulted in decreased school attendance and academic performance among affected students.The authors recommended that educational institutions provide support services and resources to address the specific needs of immigrant and refugee students, including counseling, language assistance, and legal advocacy.
Bloch & Levy (2016) examined the social experiences of refugees and asylum seekers in the UK during a period of austerity measures.The researchers conducted ethnographic fieldwork and interviews with refugees, asylum seekers, and community stakeholders to explore their experiences of social exclusion, belonging, and integration.The study found that austerity measures and changes to welfare benefits exacerbated social exclusion among refugees and asylum seekers in the UK, leading to increased poverty, homelessness, and marginalization.However, community support networks and grassroots initiatives played a crucial role in fostering belongingness and solidarity among affected individuals.The authors recommended that policymakers prioritize the protection of social welfare programs and invest in community-based support services to mitigate the impact of austerity measures on refugees and asylum seekers.
Esses, Hamilton & Gaucher (2017) explored public attitudes towards refugees and assess the effectiveness of policies aimed at improving refugee resettlement outcomes.The researchers conducted a meta-analysis of survey data from multiple countries to examine trends in public attitudes towards refugees over time.Additionally, they reviewed existing literature on refugee resettlement policies and their impact on integration outcomes.The study found that public attitudes towards refugees varied across countries and were influenced by factors such as political ideology, media framing, and exposure to diversity.Furthermore, policies that promoted contact and interaction between refugees and host community members were associated with more positive attitudes and greater social inclusion.The authors recommended that policymakers prioritize initiatives aimed at promoting intergroup contact and fostering positive relationships between refugees and host communities to improve integration outcomes.Inglis (2018) analyzed media representations of refugees in Japan and their impact on refugee policy and public attitudes.The researcher conducted a content analysis of Japanese media coverage of refugee issues, as well as interviews with policymakers, journalists, and civil society actors to examine the framing of the refugee crisis and its implications.The study found that media representations of refugees in Japan were often negative and sensationalized, portraying them as threats to national security and economic stability.These portrayals contributed to the perpetuation of restrictive refugee policies and negative public attitudes towards refugees.The author recommended that media professionals adopt more balanced and nuanced representations of refugees, highlighting their contributions and resilience, to challenge stereotypes and promote empathy and understanding among the Japanese public.Koehler & Schmid (2018) examined the impact of urban development policies on refugee housing and displacement risks in German cities.The researchers conducted a mixed-methods study, including quantitative analysis of housing data and qualitative interviews with refugees, policymakers, and urban planners to assess the role of local institutions in addressing refugee housing needs and preventing displacement.The study found that rapid urban development and gentrification in German cities exacerbated housing affordability challenges for refugees, leading to increased risk of displacement and homelessness.However, proactive measures by local institutions, such as affordable housing initiatives and community land trusts, played a crucial role in mitigating displacement risks and promoting social inclusion.The authors recommended that policymakers prioritize affordable housing and community-driven development strategies to address the housing needs of refugees and prevent displacement in rapidly changing urban environments.
Ruiz & Vargas-Silva (2020) analyzed the labor market outcomes of refugee migrants in high-income countries and factors that facilitate or hinder their economic integration.The researchers conducted a comparative analysis of labor market data from multiple countries, as well as a review of existing literature on refugee labor market integration.The study found significant variation in labor market outcomes among refugee migrants across different host countries, with factors such as language proficiency, recognition of foreign credentials, and access to employment support services playing key roles in shaping integration outcomes.Furthermore, policies that promoted employer engagement and targeted vocational training programs were associated with higher levels of employment among refugee migrants.The authors recommended that policymakers prioritize initiatives aimed at improving language training, credential recognition, and access to employment support services to facilitate the labor market integration of refugee migrants Simon (2018) aimed to provide policy recommendations for promoting social inclusion and integration of refugees in host communities.The researcher conducted a review of existing policies and initiatives aimed at fostering social inclusion and integration of refugees, as well as consultations with policymakers, practitioners, and refugee communities.The study identified a range of promising practices and interventions for promoting social inclusion and integration of refugees, including community-based initiatives, intercultural dialogue programs, and economic empowerment initiatives.Furthermore, the study highlighted the importance of participatory approaches and partnerships between government, civil society, and refugee communities in shaping effective integration policies.The author recommended that policymakers prioritize investment in community-driven integration initiatives and adopt a holistic and rights-based approach to refugee integration that addresses the multifaceted needs of refugees and fosters social cohesion.

METHODOLOGY
The study adopted a desktop research methodology.Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork.Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive's time, telephone charges and directories.Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics.This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.

FINDINGS
This study presented both a contextual and methodological gap.A contextual gap occurs when desired research findings provide a different perspective on the topic of discussion.For instance, Simon (2018) aimed to provide policy recommendations for promoting social inclusion and integration of refugees in host communities.The researcher conducted a review of existing policies and initiatives aimed at fostering social inclusion and integration of refugees, as well as consultations with policymakers, practitioners, and refugee communities.The study identified a range of promising practices and interventions for promoting social inclusion and integration of refugees, including community-based initiatives, intercultural dialogue programs, and economic empowerment initiatives.The author recommended that policymakers prioritize investment in community-driven integration initiatives and adopt a holistic and rights-based approach to refugee integration that addresses the multifaceted needs of refugees and fosters social cohesion.On the other hand, the current study focused on exploring the experiences of refugees in host communities.
Secondly, a methodological gap also presents itself, on their study on providing policy recommendations for promoting social inclusion and integration of refugees in host communities; Simon (2018) conducted a review of existing policies and initiatives aimed at fostering social inclusion and integration of refugees, as well as consultations with policymakers, practitioners, and refugee communities.Whereas, the current study adopted a desktop research method.

Conclusion
The study yields several significant conclusions regarding the challenges and opportunities faced by refugees as they navigate integration within their host societies.Firstly, it becomes evident that the experiences of refugees are multifaceted and shaped by a complex interplay of individual, social, economic, and political factors.Refugees encounter various barriers to integration, including language barriers, discrimination, lack of access to education and employment opportunities, and uncertain legal statuses.These challenges contribute to feelings of social exclusion, isolation, and vulnerability among refugees within host communities.Secondly, the study highlights the critical role of host community attitudes and policies in shaping refugees' integration experiences.Positive attitudes among host community members, characterized by empathy, tolerance, and acceptance, are associated with greater social inclusion and support for refugees.Conversely, negative attitudes, such as xenophobia and fear of cultural change, can create barriers to integration and perpetuate social exclusion.Government policies play a crucial role in facilitating or hindering refugee integration, with inclusive policies that prioritize access to education, employment, healthcare, and social services contributing to positive integration outcomes.
Thirdly, the study underscores the importance of community support networks and grassroots initiatives in fostering refugees' sense of belonging and social cohesion within host communities.Community-based organizations, religious institutions, and civil society groups play a vital role in providing practical assistance, emotional support, and advocacy for refugees.These networks provide refugees with opportunities for social interaction, cultural exchange, and mutual support, helping to counteract feelings of isolation and marginalization.Finally, the study highlights the need for a holistic and rights-based approach to refugee integration that addresses the multifaceted needs of refugees and promotes social inclusion and cohesion within host communities.This approach requires collaboration and partnership between governments, civil society organizations, humanitarian agencies, and refugee communities to develop comprehensive integration policies and programs that prioritize refugees' rights, dignity, and well-being.By fostering empathy, understanding, and cooperation among host community members and refugees, such an approach can contribute to building more inclusive, resilient, and cohesive societies for all.By understanding and addressing the challenges faced by refugees and promoting positive attitudes, inclusive policies, and community support networks, societies can create environments that enable refugees to rebuild their lives, contribute to their host communities, and thrive as active members of society.

Recommendations
The study provides valuable recommendations that contribute to theory, practice, and policy in the field of refugee studies.Firstly, the study recommends further theoretical development to better understand the complexities of refugee experiences within host communities.It suggests that scholars should explore more nuanced conceptual frameworks that capture the dynamic interactions between refugees and host community members, taking into account factors such as social identity, acculturation processes, and ecological systems.By advancing theoretical understandings of refugee integration, researchers can develop more holistic models that guide empirical research and inform practical interventions aimed at promoting social inclusion and well-being.
In terms of practical implications, the study emphasizes the importance of community-based initiatives and grassroots interventions in fostering positive interactions between refugees and host community members.It recommends that practitioners and community organizations prioritize programs that promote intergroup contact, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding.Additionally, the study highlights the role of social support networks and community resources in facilitating refugees' access to essential services and opportunities for social participation.By investing in community-driven initiatives, practitioners can create inclusive environments that promote the integration and resilience of refugees within host communities.
From a policy perspective, the study calls for the development and implementation of comprehensive integration policies that address the multifaceted needs of refugees.It recommends that policymakers prioritize initiatives aimed at improving access to education, employment, healthcare, and housing for refugees, while also addressing systemic barriers and discrimination.Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of fostering collaboration and coordination between government agencies, civil society organizations, and refugee communities to ensure a cohesive and rights-based approach to refugee integration.By adopting a holistic and participatory approach to policymaking, policymakers can create enabling environments that support the long-term integration and well-being of refugees in host communities.
Furthermore, the study underscores the need for targeted interventions to address the specific challenges faced by vulnerable subgroups within the refugee population, such as women, children, and LGBTQ+ individuals.It recommends that practitioners and policymakers develop tailored programs and services that address the unique needs and experiences of these groups, including access to traumainformed care, gender-sensitive support services, and legal protection.By prioritizing the inclusion and empowerment of vulnerable refugees, practitioners and policymakers can promote equity and social justice within host communities.
Additionally, the study highlights the importance of research-informed policymaking and practice in advancing the field of refugee studies.It recommends that researchers collaborate closely with practitioners, policymakers, and refugee communities to co-produce knowledge and ensure that research findings are translated into meaningful action.By fostering partnerships and knowledge exchange between academia and practice, researchers can enhance the relevance and impact of their work, contributing to evidence-based policy and practice initiatives that promote the well-being of refugees in host communities.