Working Paper: NBER ID: w26834
Authors: Jacob Nielsen Arendt; Iben Bolvig; Mette Foged; Linea Hasager; Giovanni Peri
Abstract: We evaluate a Danish reform focused on improving Danish language training for those granted refugee status on or after January 1, 1999. Using a Regression Discontinuity Design we find a significant, permanent, positive effect on earnings. This effect emerged after completion of language classes and was accompanied by additional schooling and higher probability of working in communication-intensive jobs, suggesting that language training, rather than other minor aspects of the reform, produced it. We also find evidence of higher completion rates of lower secondary school and lower probability of crime for male children with both parents exposed to the reform.
Keywords: refugees; language training; integration; earnings; employment
JEL Codes: E64; I30; J18; J24; J60
Edges that are evidenced by causal inference methods are in orange, and the rest are in light blue.
| Cause | Effect |
|---|---|
| Danish language training reform (M53) | earnings increase (J31) |
| Danish language training reform (M53) | employment probabilities increase (J68) |
| Danish language training reform (M53) | occupational task complexity increase (L23) |
| Danish language training reform (M53) | male children of treated refugees completing lower secondary school (I24) |
| Danish language training reform (M53) | decrease in likelihood of male children committing crimes (J13) |