A solidarity bias? Assessing the effects of individual transnationalism on redistributive solidarity in the EU

Abstract

ABSTRACT European integration has led to the proliferation of cross-border mobilities across the member states of the European Union (EU). How do cross-border virtual and physical interactions impact different types of redistributive solidarity? In this article, we test the association between transnationalism and support for foreigners’ access to the domestic welfare state and to general redistributive solidarity to reduce inequality. We draw on original public opinion survey data collected by the ‘Reconciling Economic and Social Europe: The Role of Values, Ideas and Politics’ (REScEU) research project in ten EU countries. We argue that European forms of transnationalism increase mobility-related solidarity because through cross-border social exchange individuals develop feelings of care and responsibility towards ethnic ‘others’. We find that transnationalism has a positive effect on the acceptance of both ‘EU citizens’ and ‘all foreigners’ into the domestic welfare system. By contrast, transnationalism is associated with a decrease in individuals’ preferences for economic redistribution to reduce income inequality in one’s country.