Assessing the Vulnerability of Refugees and Asylum seekers in Italy
9-10 October 2025, Palermo, Italy
Complesso Monumentale Sant'Antonino,
Piazza Sant’Antonino, 1
Palermo, Italy
This event presents the key findings of the AVRAI research project to the research community, public authorities and civil society. The workshop aims to foster interdisciplinary exchange (both within and beyond academia), enhancing our understanding of the vulnerabilities of refugees and asylum seekers.
The research team from the Universities of Palermo, Bologna, Milan and Calabria, will share the main results of the project, with special focus on ItRAS, the first national survey on refugees and asylum seekers in Italy. Innovative approaches to measuring multidimensional vulnerability -integrating demographic, social, and health perspectives- will also be presented.
Keynote lectures will be delivered by:
Silvia Loi (MPIDR, Germany)
Elisabeth Kraus (BiB, Germany)
Ben Wilson (University of Stockholm)
Ceri Oeppen (University of Sussex)
Maurizio Ambrosini (University of Milan)
9/10 October 2025 Palermo
September 11-12, 2025 - Department of Statistical Sciences, University of Padua
Miaci, E., Cela, E., Barbiano di Belgiojoso. E. (2025) “Health and Well-being among Older Refugees: A Textual Analysis from Italy"
Abstract: Population ageing and international migration represent critical global demographic trends with profound implications for health and social policies. Older refugees represent an especially vulnerable population, situated at the intersection of ageing, migration, and forced displacement. Nevertheless, their specific needs remain largely invisible in contemporary policy discussions on sustainable ageing. This study explores how forced migration shapes the experiences of ageing, health, and well-being among older refugees in Italy, providing critical insights for sustainable ageing policy and practice. Drawing from 100 in-depth interviews conducted within the AVRAI project -Assessing the Vulnerability of Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Italy, we adopt a textual analysis approach—combining co-occurrence analysis and Latent Dirichlet Allocation —to systematically identify and interpret key themes emerging from interview narratives. Findings highlight factors related to health and well-being, such as social isolation, access to healthcare and services for older people, active ageing activities, cultural adaptation challenges and intergenerational support. By focusing on the narratives of older refugees, this research contributes to the interdisciplinary debate on sustainable ageing, emphasizing the urgent need for inclusive and culturally sensitive policies that enhance resilience, social equity, and the long-term well-being of forcibly displaced older adults.
13-18 July 2025, Brisbane, Australia
Ortensi, L. Impicciatore R., Tosi F.(2025) “Is there a female advantage in first and second-instance decisions on asylum applications in Europe?”. Paper presented at 30th International Population Conference (IPC2025), Brisbane 13-18 July 2025.
Abstract: This study investigates the gender dynamics in asylum decision-making within the EU27, EFTA countries, and the UK from 2008 to 2023. Despite constituting over half of the global refugee population, women remain underrepresented among asylum seekers in Europe. By reproducing Eurostat microdata and controlling for a comprehensive set of indicators assessing political conditions and gender discrimination, including LGBT+ discrimination, in applicants' countries of origin, this research addresses three key questions. First, it examines whether there is a female advantage in receiving overall positive decisions, identifying the specific countries of origin where this advantage is observed and determining whether it applies to both first and second-instance decisions. Second, it investigates whether women benefit from a higher likelihood of being granted more favorable types of protection, such as increased recognition of Refugee Status. Finally, the study analyzes the variations in these gendered outcomes across different destination countries.
1-4 July 2025, Paris, France
Arcaio, M., Mendola, D., Parroco, A.M. (2025) “Measuring the vulnerability of refugees: latent profiles in developed countries”. Paper presented at IMISCOE Conference, Aubervilliers–Paris, 1-4 July 2025
The topic of refugees’ vulnerability is relevant in developed countries as well. It is agreed that vulnerability is not unidimensional, and that its effects are amplified in the face of external threats, but individual capabilities that make individuals self-reliant can help mitigate its consequences. Although some United Nations refugee agencies already employ tools to assess vulnerability in refugee camps, these approaches are highly context-specific, making them difficult to apply in more developed settings.
In this work, we use the first Italian quantitative survey of refugees and asylum seekers (ITRAS 2024), with about 1300 face-to-face interviews. This survey is part of the AVRAI (Assessing the Vulnerability of Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Italy) research project and it gathers information on the several dimensions of vulnerability, namely: economic, housing, health and food insecurity, educational, legal, social, etc.
We propose an assessment tool based on indicators specific for the vulnerability of refugees in high income countries using the latent profile analysis techniques, which would allow to group refugees and asylum seekers according to their profile of vulnerability. We identified potential sources of increased vulnerability and possible protective factors.
A comparative analysis was also performed with refugees living in Germany.
Being able to quickly use these assessment tools would allow to provide customized assistance to those more in need of protection or more at risk of increased vulnerability.
Link: https://www.imiscoe.org/events/imiscoe-events/2117-22nd-imiscoe-annual-conference
16-18 June Genoa, Italy
Mendola D., Parigi M., Arcaio M., Parroco, A. M. (2025) “Assessing Multidimensional Vulnerability of Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Italy”. Paper presented at SIS 2025 Conference, Genoa, 16-18 June 2025
This study aims to assess vulnerability and its correlates among refugees and asylum seekers in Italy. To do so, we employ firsthand data from the first Italian national survey on this population and construct a multidimensional vulnerability index. The index covers the dimensions of economic vulnerability, residential segregation, mental health, physical health and legal and social protection. We then employ a gamma regression model to investigate the association between the overall vulnerability index and socio-demographic and legal factors. Our results show that individuals granted lower levels of legal protection are significantly more vulnerable than those granted higher levels of protection. Furthermore, experiencing discrimination also significantly increases vulnerability. Noteworthy, we also find that women with lower levels of legal protection are less vulnerable than their male counterparts with the same legal status.
Arcaio M., Parroco, A. M., Mendola D. (2025) “Factors Promoting and Hindering Refugees Employment Outcomes: First Results from an Italian Survey”. Paper presented at SIS 2025 Conference, Genoa, 16-18 June 2025
Employment helps foster integration, representing a form of autonomy, stability and fulfilment, particularly relevant for forcibly displaced individuals. The literature states that there might be systemic barriers that prevent from finding employment, but also socio-economic forms of support that could aid in this pursuit. Using data from a novel survey in Italy, the labour market integration of asylum seekers and refugees was studied using partially proportional odds models. The results show the positive effect of language proficiency and that of the network of friends from the hosting country. Bad health conditions, a lower legal status and a lower educational level reduce employment integration. High reliance on economic subsidies is associated with lower employment integration.
13-14 June 2025 Milan, Italy
StaTalk is a free conference organised by the young section of the Italian Statistical Society (y-SIS), dedicated to fostering collaboration and idea exchange among early-career researchers and students from diverse fields. Eleonora Miaci, a young member of the AVRAI research team, presented some results from the ItRAS survey.
Miaci, E., Cela, E., Barbiano di Belgiojoso, E., Ambrosini, M. (2025) “Health and Vulnerability Among Refugees in Italy: Exploring Self-Rated Health, Mental Health, and Unmet Health Needs”.
Abstract: Unlike general migrants, asylum seekers and refugees (AS&R) are typically less positively selected in terms of health. Their health challenges often arise from pre-migration trauma, difficult journeys, and post-arrival vulnerabilities, yet they remain under-researched in Italy. This study addresses this gap by examining self-rated health, mental health, and unmet healthcare needs among AS&R, in relation to socio-demographic factors and multiple dimensions of vulnerability. We use data from the AVRAI project, which collected responses from 1,327 AS&R through the ITRAS survey (April–July 2024). Logistic regression models assess the impact of gender, economic deprivation, discrimination, length of stay, and social network composition on three key outcomes: self-rated health (SRH), mental health (MH), and unmet healthcare needs. Findings highlights that economic deprivation, discrimination, female gender, and older age are correlate with poorer SRH and greater healthcare access difficulties. Strong Italian social networks are positively associated with better SRH and MH, while non-Italian networks offer limited benefits. Nationality also plays a role: individuals from Egypt, Nigeria, Pakistan, Ukraine, and Eritrea report better SRH than those from Bangladesh. These findings underscore the importance of addressing structural barriers to healthcare, tackling discrimination, and promoting inclusive social integration. Policies should prioritize gender-sensitive care, economic empowerment, and the development of diverse support networks to improve refugee health outcomes in Italy.
https://sites.google.com/view/statalk2025dems-unimib/program
“Health and Vulnerability Among Refugees in Italy: Exploring Self-Rated Health, Mental Health, and Unmet Health Needs.”
Eleonora Miaci, Eralba Cela, Elisa Barbiano di Belgiojoso, Maurizio Ambrosini
Abstract: This study explores self-rated health, mental health, and unmet health needs among asylum seekers and refugees in Italy, using the unique ITRAS dataset collected in 2024 (N=1,327). Findings highlight the protective role of social support networks and the negative impact of discrimination and age on perceived health. Results underscore the need to address vulnerability in refugee health policies.
Cela, E., Miaci, E., Barbiano di Belgiojoso, E., Ambrosini, M. (2025) “Refugees’ health in the destination country. Relationship between vulnerability and self-related health in Italy”. Paper presented at the Population Days 2025, Cagliari, 4-6 June 2025.
Abstract: Literature suggests that migrants are a selected group of the population of the origin country with respect to different dimensions including health, while asylum seekers and refugees are a less selected group. The health status of these specific subgroups of migrants remains under-researched for Italy. However, asylum seekers and refugees may have specific health needs stemming from their pre-migration and travel experiences that warrant further investigation. This contribution aims at filling this gap studying self-related health among asylum seekers and refugees living in Italy and its relationship with the vulnerability. For the analysis we use a unique dataset that collected data on asylum seekers and refugees living in Italy in 2024 for a total sample of 1,327 individuals. Preliminary results confirm the strong and positive relationship between social support networks (family and friends) and health status, while experienced discrimination and age have a negative and significant relationship with self-rated health.
Miaci, E., Stranges, M., Cela, E., Barbiano di Belgiojoso, E. (2025) “Differences in Health Perception Between Refugees and Other Migrants: An Investigation Across EU Countries”. Paper presented at the Population Days 2025, Cagliari, 4-6 June 2025.
Abstract: This study examines health disparities between refugees and other migrants in Europe. While economic migrants often benefit from positive health selection, refugees face distinct challenges related to trauma and vulnerabilities from forced displacement. Using data from the EU-MIDIS II survey (2015-2016), logistic regression models analyzed self-reported health and chronic conditions based on migration status. Results show that refugees report better overall health perceptions than other migrants. Notable gender differences emerged, with women reporting poorer health. Recent migrants with stable employment, higher education, and family support reported better health outcomes, while discrimination significantly negatively affected health. Migrants and refugees residing in Southern Europe exhibited a comparative health advantage over those in Northern and Western Europe. The findings emphasize the need for tailored policies to reduce health disparities, stressing the importance of socio-economic integration, equitable healthcare access, and strong family support in improving health outcomes for migrants across Europe.
Ortensi, L., Impicciatore, R., Tosi, F. (2025) “Is there a female advantage in asylum application outcomes in Europe?”. Paper presented at the Population Days 2025, Cagliari, 4-6 June 2025.
Abstract: This study investigates the gender dynamics in asylum decision-making within the EU27, EFTA countries, and the UK from 2008 to 2023. Despite constituting over half of the global refugee population, women remain underrepresented among asylum seekers in Europe. By reproducing Eurostat microdata and controlling for a comprehensive set of indicators in applicants' countries of origin, this research addresses three key questions. First, it examines whether there is a female advantage in receiving overall positive decisions, identifying the specific countries of origin where this advantage is observed and determining whether it applies to both first and second-instance decisions. Second, it investigates whether women benefit from a higher likelihood of being granted more favorable types of protection, such as increased recognition of Refugee Status. Finally, the study analyzes the variations in these gendered outcomes across different destination countries.
Link: PopDays 2025 - ConfTool Pro - BrowseSessions
28-30 May 2025, Rome, Italy
Cela, E., Miaci, E., Barbiano, Campaniello, L., Sorti, E. (2025) “Health and Vulnerability among Refugees In Italy: Exploring Self-Rated Health, Mental Health, and Unmet Health Needs.“ Paper presented at SIEDS 2025 Conference, Rome, 28-30 May 2025
Abstract: The literature indicates that migrants tend to be a selected group from the population of their country of origin, particularly with respect to health status. In contrast, asylum seekers and refugees typically represent a less selected group as highlighted by empirical evidence. The health status of these specific subgroups of migrants remains under-researched in the Italian context. However, asylum seekers and refugees may have specific health needs stemming from their pre-migration and travel experiences that warrant further investigation. This study addresses this gap by examining self-rated health among asylum seekers and refugees residing in Italy. Health status is analysed in relation to socio-demographic characteristics and various dimensions of vulnerability. We draw on data from a unique survey conducted in 2024 on asylum seekers and refugees living in Italy with a total sample of 1,327 individuals. Our results highlight a positive relation between social support networks and health status. Conversely, experiences of discrimination, economic deprivation, female gender, and older age are negatively associated with health outcomes.
Mendola D., Busetta A. (2025) “Time and resilience. Evidence from a new survey of refugees and asylum seekers in Italy”. Paper presented at SIEDS 2025 Conference, Rome, 28-30 May 2025
Abstract: Migration studies agree that resilience is a crucial dimension for migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers; however, the exploration of how resilience differs among individuals of different ages and its association with the integration process is poorly understood. This study aims to investigate the role of time on resilience. Particularly, whether resilience differs by age and whether it is related to the length of permanence in the hosting country. Our analysis benefits from the ItRAS (Italian Refugees and Asylum Seekers Survey), the first nationally representative survey of beneficiaries of refugee status, asylum seekers, and other forms of international protection. The survey was conducted in 2024 and included individuals who had resided in Italy for at least six months but not before 2011. We explored the interplay of time and resilience, controlling for the main individual socio-demographic characteristics and perceptions of life satisfaction and discrimination. The analysis employed an ordinal logit model, which accounted for within-cluster correlation by nationality to correct for potential biases introduced by shared experiences or backgrounds. The probability of being resilient is significantly different by age, with a lower resilience among the youngest. The model also suggests that the number of years since arrival in Italy is significantly associated with resilience. Among the most resilient refugees and asylum seekers, those who have recently arrived (less than 5 years before the interview) show a higher probability of being highly resilient than those who arrived ten or more years ago, with statistically significant differences. No evidence of any pattern by age or by year of arrival for those less resilient. By providing insights into the role of time on resilience, this study aims to draw the attention of policymakers to implementing policies that preserve the natural resilience that some refugees have upon arrival and avoid the circumstances that lead to their deterioration.
Miaci, E., Stranges, M., Cela, E. (2025) Differences in Health Perception between Refugees and other Migrants: A Cross-Country Study in the EU. Paper presented at SIEDS 2025 Conference, Rome, 28-30 May 2025
Abstract: This study investigates health disparities between refugees and other migrants in Europe. While economic migrants often benefit from positive health selection, refugees face unique challenges related to trauma and vulnerabilities associated with forced displacement. Using data from the EU-MIDIS II survey (2015-2016), we analyse chronic health conditions by migration status. Descriptive results show variation in the distribution of health issues across a range of individual and contextual characteristics, including age, socioeconomic conditions, length of residence and context of destination. Preliminary regression analyses do not show statistically significant differences in the likelihood of reporting long-term health problems between refugees and other migrants. These findings highlight the importance of addressing migrant health disparities through targeted policy interventions, with a particular attention to socio-economic integration, equitable access to healthcare services, and the role of family support in improving health outcomes across Europe.
Parroco, A.M., Arcaio, M., Mendola, D. (2025) “Employment and Life Satisfaction among Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Italy: Evidence from the ItRAS Survey”. Paper presented at SIEDS 2025 Conference, Rome, 28-30 May 2025
Abstract: Employment plays a crucial role in fostering integration, providing autonomy, stability, and fulfilment, particularly relevant for forcibly displaced individuals. Moreover, employment is known to be positively associated with overall life satisfaction. However, this population's access to formal job contracts remains limited, often due to structural social barriers. While existing literature highlights these obstacles, it also suggests that socio-economic support can facilitate labour market integration. This study examines employment outcomes among asylum seekers and refugees in Italy, investigating their relationship with overall life satisfaction, structural barriers and socio-economic support. The analysis is based on data from the Italian Survey on Refugees and Asylum Seekers (ItRAS, 2024), a novel dataset providing unprecedented insights into various aspects of refugees' lives in Italy. Notably, this survey fills a significant gap in official statistical sources, which currently rely solely on incomplete and fragmented administrative data.
Using partially proportional odds models, the study assesses key determinants of employment. The findings confirm a positive association between employment and overall life satisfaction, as well as with language proficiency and the presence of an existing network of friends from the hosting country. Conversely, poor health conditions, lower legal protection and lower educational attainment significantly decrease the likelihood of being employed—whether through formal or informal contracts. These results align with evidence from other countries and add to the knowledge of the phenomenon in the Italian context, where specific studies on this topic have been lacking. However, issues related to reverse causality in some of the analysed variables remain to be further explored in future research.
Link: SIEDS Program
29 January - 1 February 2025, Pavia, Italy
Ortensi, L. Impicciatore R., Tosi F.(2025) “Is there a female advantage in first-instance decisions on asylum application in Europe?”. Paper presented at the IX Scientific Meeting of the Italian Society for Economic Sociology, Pavia, 29th January-1st February 2025.
Abstract: This study investigates the gender dynamics in asylum decision-making within the EU27, EFTA countries, and the UK from 2008 to 2023. Despite constituting over half of the global refugee population, women remain underrepresented among asylum seekers in Europe. By reproducing Eurostat microdata and controlling for a comprehensive set of indicators assessing political conditions and gender discrimination, including LGBT+ discrimination, in applicants' countries of origin, this research addresses three key questions. First, it examines whether there is a female advantage in receiving overall positive decisions, identifying the specific countries of origin where this advantage is observed and determining whether it applies to both first and second-instance decisions. Second, it investigates whether women benefit from a higher likelihood of being granted more favorable types of protection, such as increased recognition of Refugee Status. Finally, the study analyzes the variations in these gendered outcomes across different destination countries.
Cela E., Miaci E., Barbiano di Belgiojoso E., Ambrosini M. (2025) “Refugees’ health in the destination country: relationship between vulnerability and self-related health in Italy”. Paper presented at the IX Scientific Meeting of the Italian Society for Economic Sociology, Pavia, 29th January-1st February 2025.
Abstract: Relying on a new and unique dataset, ITRAS, collected in 2024 on 1,327 asylum seekers and refugees in Italy, this study investigates the relationship between vulnerability and self-rated health in the destination country. Findings show that social support plays a protective role, while various forms of vulnerability, such as discrimination and age, negatively affect perceived health. These results call for health policies that address the multifaceted nature of vulnerability among refugees.
