Local exposure to refugees changed attitudes to ethnic minorities in the Netherlands

We investigate the effect of exposure to refugees on the local population's preferences with regard to ethnic minorities using individual-level panel data from the Netherlands. The data combine self-reported data on these preferences with administrative data on the locations of residence of the respondents and of refugee facilities. The study period is marked by a sudden inflow of refugees in some neighborhoods. We find that individuals living close to refugee facilities developed a more positive attitude toward ethnic minorities and became less inclined to support anti-immigration parties compared to individuals living farther away. An investigation of mechanisms suggests that the local effect is due to contact between residents and refugees.