Migrants, ethnic minorities and mobility poverty

Abstract

Very few studies in Europe have investigated the mobility needs and travel patterns of migrants or have included ethnic perspectives. Apart from generally having less access to cars, barriers in accessing public transport can also be identified. Among these barriers are language barriers, availability and accessibility issues, the cost of public transportation and racial and religious discrimination. This chapter investigates the existing literature on mobility patterns and problems of migrants in Europe and beyond. In a second step, previous insights are complemented by findings from the authors' own research. The HiReach project investigated the mobility needs and problems of refugees in Luxembourg and Germany. This research provides a rare insight into the mobility poverty experiences of migrants who recently arrived in Europe. This chapter will outline the mobility challenges first and will then highlight some approaches to solutions in the final part.