Bridging Communities through Inclusive Communication: Exploring the Role of Social Media andMentor/Intermediary Influence for Syrian Refugee Integration in Dutch Society.
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2024-08-29
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en
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This thesis explores the impact of inclusive communication facilitated through social
media and mentors/intermediaries on the integration of Syrian refugees into Dutch society. It
addresses the barriers refugees face, such as cultural differences, language challenges, and
socio-economic factors, that complicate their integration process. The study emphasises the
contribution of social media as both an information source and a platform for building social
networks, which are found to be essential for effective integration. Additionally, it examines
how mentors/intermediaries, particularly those with similar cultural backgrounds, contribute
to easing the integration process by providing personalised support, guidance and
explanations on the new cultural context. Through semi-structured in-depth interviews with
Syrian refugees and Arabic-speaking mentors/intermediaries, this research identified key
strategies and challenges in the use of digital tools and social support systems. The findings
suggest that inclusive communication via these channels plays a crucial role in understanding
the new context for refugees and therefore facilitating successful integration.
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Faculteit der Letteren