Why do states admit refugees? A comparative analysis of resettlement policies in OECD countries

Many refugee-receiving countries have restricted their asylum policies and stepped up border control to prevent seekers from reaching territories. At the same time, resettlement of refugees has gained popularity. states introduced schemes or increased number they resettle. Why do voluntarily admit by expanding resettlement? This article develops a comprehensive theoretical account countries’ choices identifies determinants openness refugee through an empirical analysis 33 OECD between 1980 2019. We find that supply-side factor wealth best predicts whether country engages in resettlement. The effective admissions tends fluctuate with demand-side humanitarian need. Nevertheless, expansion not resulted subsequent protection. Instead, combine restrictive which allows them preserve credentials while curtailing refugees’ overall access asylum. These findings provide important insights into policy-making strategic considerations governance liberal democracies.