Nordic welfare states and the dynamics and effects of ethnic residential segregation

In this comparative research project we aim to assess and explore the dynamics and effects of ethnic residential segregation in four Nordic countries. Ethnic residential segregation has been studied quite extensively through mapping and statistical indexes, but less is known about the complexities behind the spatially and statistically observable segregation patterns. Our project is designed to capture the links between welfare state policies and trajectories of social spatial integration. The overall research questions are: How are the Nordic welfare states shaping the conditions for ethnic residential segregation and de-segregation, and how are the patterns and processes of segregation affecting the wider social and spatial developments in the different host societies?

The project is designed to combine both within-case and across-case variations. The design is thus hierarchical, conceiving ethnic segregation as a phenomenon that is nested within urban and national structures, which in turn are nested within a Nordic political-ideological context. Empirical research is carried out in five multidisciplinary subprojects, which explore the underlying causes and impacts of ethnic segregation through statistical analyses of international migration flows, housing careers and selective migration patterns, and qualitative analyses of the effects of housing strategies, preferences and neighbourhood stigmatisation. The national welfare, housing and integration policies are also critically examined. The project will advance research-based knowledge on the dynamics of migration and settlement, and their current and potential future impacts on society and politics on a larger scale. The experts involved in the research project are from Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden.

Principal Investigator
Professor Mari Vaattovaara, University of Helsinki (Finland)