Social integration of refugee youth in Europe: Lessons learned about interethnic relations in U.S. schools

While European nations are in the process of schooling large numbers of refugee youth from the Middle East and Northern Africa, empirical research on successful methods of social integration of this vital next generation of citizens is sparse. To address this void of knowledge, we review relevant lessons learned about school-based interethnic relations in the United States (U.S.) that offer some insights into successful social integration. By focusing on refugee youth’s needs to feel safe and connected in school, we focus specifically on social policies and educational practices that separate vs. integrate different ethnic groups together in schools and classrooms. To understand how and why segregation of groups fosters prejudice, while diversity promotes greater school safety and connectedness, we specifically highlight the role of cross-group friendships and the development of multiple social identities. Recommendations for new research directions on refugee youth are also provided.