Vienna university opens institute for refugee and migration research

A new institute at Vienna University of Economics and Business is researching refugees and migration, ORF reports. It aims to provide independent evidence to inform political and public decisions.

Operating since June, the institute is the first of its kind at an Austrian business university. Its 22 researchers come from fields including economics, social sciences, linguistics and law, as well as research on organisations and businesses.

Institute head Judith Kohlenberger said the work should help bring a more evidence-based approach to a debate that has become politically and socially charged. She said discussion of people who have fled their homes often focuses on setbacks, while their contributions also deserve attention. About 28 percent of Austria’s population has a migration background, she said.

A key research focus is how to increase refugees’ employment, particularly among women. Kohlenberger said work and the financial independence it brings are important.

The institute also wants its findings to be accessible to the public, businesses and policymakers through channels including social media and a newsletter. The article says the 2015 movement of refugees had a lasting effect on society and posed challenges for Vienna in education, healthcare and the labour market.