Can Redistribution Change Policy Views? Aid and Attitudes toward Refugees

Travis Baseler, Thomas Ginn, Robert Hakiza, Helidah Ogude-Chambert and Olivia Woldemikael

Journal of Political Economy, 2025, vol. 133, issue 9, 2874 - 2917

Abstract: Many public policies create winners and losers, but it is unclear whether redistribution can support new political economy equilibria that raise aggregate welfare. We study policies that partially redistribute foreign aid for refugees to natives while allowing refugees to work and move freely. Cash grants to Ugandan and Kenyan natives, labeled as aid from the refugee response, substantially increase support for refugee integration. Information about existing redistribution has significant but smaller effects. In contrast, intergroup contact yields no persistent, measurable effects. Our results indicate that economic interventions can shape policy views even on issues influenced by cultural concerns, such as immigration.

Date: 2025
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