Social Dynamics Research Articles

How to not revert to type: learnings from the pandemic response for universal health system reform

Abstract Background Understanding of the opportunities and learnings for health system change that have arisen during the pandemic is still emerging. Situated in the Irish health reform context of Sláintecare, the programme which aims to deliver universal, integrated healthcare, this study set out to generate evidence on the processes that impacted access to universal, integrated care during COVID-19, with a view to informing universal health system reform and implementation. Methods The study, which is qualitative, was underpinned by a co-production approach with Irish health system leadership. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 health system professionals (including managers and frontline workers) from a range of responses to explore their experiences during the pandemic. Following thematic analysis, a complexity-informed approach guided the interpretation of the findings. Results A range of factors facilitated better access to integrated care during the crisis, falling under three key themes (1) nurturing whole-system thinking through a clear, common goal and shared information base; (2) harnessing, sharing and supporting innovation; and (3) prioritizing trust and relationship-building in a human-centred health system. Conclusions Alongside establishing health system structures, we must also incorporate alternative approaches to reform that recognise the value of shared sense-making in an interdependent system, while also allowing for innovation, exploration and learning; and acknowledging the role of social dynamics in driving change.

Long-term cooperative relationships among vampire bats are not strongly predicted by their initial interactions.

In many group-living animals, survival and reproductive success depend on the formation of long-term social bonds, yet it remains largely unclear why particular pairs of groupmates form social bonds and not others. Can social bond formation be reliably predicted from each individual's immediately observable traits and behaviors at first encounter? Or is social bond formation hard to predict due to the impacts of shifting social preferences on social network dynamics? To begin to address these questions, we asked how well long-term cooperative relationships among vampire bats were predicted by how they interacted during their first encounter as introduced strangers. In Study 1, we found that the first 6h of observed interactions among unfamiliar bats co-housed in small cages did not clearly predict the formation of allogrooming or food-sharing relationships over the next 10 months. In Study 2, we found that biologger-tracked first contacts during the first 4-24h together in a flight cage did not strongly predict allogrooming rates over the next 4 months. These results corroborate past evidence that social bonding in vampire bats is not reducible to the individual traits or behaviors observed at first encounter. Put simply, first impressions are overshadowed by future social interactions.

From “Big White” army to White Paper Protests: China’s gendered pandemic war and feminist interventions

ABSTRACT In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, many nation-states adopted militarized measures for rapid containment. China notably implemented extreme and enduring war-like procedures. This study aims to explore the implications of securitizing the pandemic through a feminist lens and suggest ethical and equitable strategies for understanding emergencies and coping with future crises. Employing discourse-based online ethnography, it analyzes social dynamics in China’s “pandemic war,” examining how gender and (in)security are co-constructed and the role of feminist activism within an authoritarian context. This article argues that framing the pandemic as war reinforces a masculinist stance of dominance, prioritizing state stability over human rights and security. State-centric securitization perpetuates state authority, gendered social hierarchies, and structural violence. The exclusionary nature of this approach created new avenues for feminist activism, both online and offline, advocating for marginalized groups, raising social and gender awareness, challenging state narratives, and fostering collective resistance. Drawing lessons from Chinese feminist initiatives during COVID-19, this study calls for alternative crisis responses focused on care, equity, ethics, and collaboration.

World War I and World War II: Their Effects on the Islamic World and Afghanistan

The tremendous effects that World War I and World War II had on the Islamic world are investigated in this research, with a particular focus on Afghanistan. The aftermath of World War I resulted in the breakup of empires, most notably the Ottoman Empire, as well as the restructuring of political boundaries. The study aims to explore and analyze the far-reaching impacts of World War I and World War II on the Islamic world, with a particular focus on Afghanistan. The study seeks to examine how these global conflicts reshaped political, social, and economic dynamics in Muslim-majority regions, leading to the disintegration of empires, the rise of nationalism, and the realignment of power structures. The significance of this study lies in the fact that it shades light on a relatively unexplored facet of world history, namely the manner in which the Islamic world, and Afghanistan in particular, was impacted by the two World Wars. Specifically, it sheds light on the growth of nationalism, decolonization, and geopolitical competition, all of which played a role in shaping the position of Afghanistan, Central Asia, and the Middle East within the global system. This work employs the doctrinal research methodology along with descriptive, explanatory, and analytical research approaches. It is worth mentioning that this research study is entirely based on library sources. Most of the sources are reputable and trustworthy textbooks, scholarly published and unpublished journal articles, law reports, and online websites related to the research area. One of the main findings is Both World Wars accelerated the disintegration of Islamic empires, notably the Ottoman Empire, and paved the way for European colonial powers to carve out new territories in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. Afghanistan’s strategic position made it vulnerable to foreign influence, particularly from Britain and Russia. After World War I, Afghanistan gained greater autonomy, but it became a battleground for influence between the Soviet Union and the West following World War II, especially during the Cold War. It is recommended that further research and documents are needed the Islamic world’s experience during both World Wars, which has often been overlooked in global history. Incorporating these perspectives into academic curricula could help reshape understanding of global conflicts from a non-Western perspective.

Exploring Collaboration and Social Dynamics in the Paediatric Morbidity and Mortality Meeting, A Qualitative Case Study.

To explore collaboration and social dynamics within paediatric Morbidity and Mortality meetings. Qualitative Exploratory Case Study Methodology incorporating semi-structured interviews and qualitative observations. Data were collected in a large quaternary paediatric hospital in Melbourne, Australia. Semi-structured interviews with meeting attendees were conducted after observing and documenting meeting conduct. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to interpret data and generate a thematic map of findings. Forty-four interviews and 32 meeting observations were conducted between July 2019 and January 2020. Participants valued collaboration between attendees in Morbidity and Mortality meetings, however there were barriers to this. They included differing views about roles and negative impacts of hierarchies and authority. Senior doctors dominated discussion, and participants described this occasionally signalling reverence and respect, but sometimes signified intimidation and feeling unsure about how to contribute. Because of this complexity, successfully achieving positive social dynamics in a meeting required active promotion and management. Morbidity and Mortality meetings mirror the complexity and richness of the clinical environment. Descriptions of how meeting conduct can shape positive workplace culture and address hierarchical obstructions to safe clinical care highlight their far-reaching potential. Effective collaboration is an intrinsic part of realising this value. This paper addresses a paucity in the literature in understanding how social dynamics and collaboration in Morbidity and Mortality meetings are interpreted and experienced. These findings illuminate challenges and obstacles to achieving a productive and equitable social dynamic in meetings. They also illustrate positive discrimination strategies that may improve participation and widespread engagement of nurses, junior doctors, and allied health professionals. Importantly, fostering constructive social dynamics in the Morbidity and Mortality meeting could positively impact patient safety culture and therefore patient care. No patient or public contribution.

Housing and social sustainability in Uganda; case of Pagirinya Refugee Settlement in Adjumani district

PurposeThis paper aims to respond to the need for “socially sustainable settlements for all” and the need for successful integration within the settlements through building strong social constructs among the settlers.Design/methodology/approachMixed methods were used in this study. A sample size of 332 households in Pagirinya Refugee Settlement was used. The settlement is divided into six blocks, each block is subdivided into clusters. Each cluster comprises of 100 households. Due to variations in the number of households in each settlement block, the authors used a proportional sampling approach to determine the number of respondent households in each settlement block. Data was collected through questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions. Chi-square and an interdependent multivariate statistical analysis were performed to establish the relationship between housing and social sustainability.FindingsThe study finds a significant relationship between housing and social sustainability when considered jointly on the variables of roofs of buildings and how often the refugee respondents meet with neighbours (p = 0.018) and when considered jointly on the variables of the width of access roads and how knowledgeable the refugee respondents are about their neighbours (p = 0.018). The study also finds a significant relationship between housing and social sustainability when considered jointly on the variables of the number of direct access roads to the households and the number of friends of the refugee respondents (p = 0.019).Originality/valueWith limited literature, this is a novel approach. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no previous studies focused on the specifics of a building and analysed its relationship with the social dynamics, especially in settlement studies.

An Evidence-Based Comprehensive Review of Laughter Therapy in Depression Management

Abstract: Depression is a widespread mental health challenge, necessitating diverse therapeutic approaches. Emerging research suggests that laughter may offer a valuable adjunctive intervention for individuals grappling with depressive symptoms. This review systematically investigates the multifaceted relationship between laughter and depression, elucidating the underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic benefits. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple electronic databases, including PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Keywords used in the search included “laughter therapy,” “humor,” “depression,” “mental health,” and “psychological well-being.” The search was limited to articles published in English and included both peer-reviewed journal articles and relevant gray literature. Relevant data were extracted from each study, including the study design, sample size, participant characteristics, type of laughter intervention, duration and frequency of the intervention, outcome measures, and key findings. The extracted data were organized into tables to facilitate comparison across studies. By synthesizing findings from clinical studies, neuroscience research, and anecdotal evidence, this review examines the physiological, psychological, and social dimensions of laughter's impact on depression. Special attention is given to neurochemical pathways, stress modulation, cognitive restructuring, and social dynamics. The physiological effects of laughter on depression encompass neurochemical regulation (endorphins, serotonin, dopamine), stress reduction, and immune system modulation. Psychologically, laughter contributes to cognitive reframing, enhanced coping mechanisms, and mood regulation. Socially, it strengthens social bonds, mitigates social isolation, and fosters a positive social environment. In conclusion, this review synthesizes current knowledge on the healing potential of laughter in mitigating depression, providing a holistic understanding of its multifaceted impact. The findings underscore the importance of integrating laughter-based interventions into mental health care practices and highlight avenues for future research and clinical applications in the realm of depression treatment.

The social ledger: qualitatively decoding interaction-driven investment decisions among Indian investors and fund managers

Purpose This study aims to investigate the antecedents of social interaction among Indian retail investors and fund managers to understand how these factors influence investment decisions. By identifying and examining these antecedents, the study aims to shed light on the social dynamics that shape investment behavior in the Indian financial market. Design/methodology/approach The researchers have mainly adopted an interpretive strategy for the present study. Qualitative data elicited through semistructured interviews with six retail investors and two fund managers were subjected to qualitative thematic analysis. Findings Our research found several factors that make Indian retail investors and fund managers connect and make financial decisions. Peers can improve a person’s investing performance through social facilitation, and discussing investment suggestions and lessons learned can affect a group’s investment behavior. Social norms also influenced investors’ financial decisions, demonstrating compliance. Investor closeness increased information sharing. Finally, the fear of missing out (FOMO), a psychological phenomenon where people fear missing out on rewarding experiences, encouraged social engagement as investors sought appealing prospects. Research limitations/implications The researchers interviewed eight carefully selected interviewees across the divide between retail investors and fund managers. Adopting other grouping criteria, conducting a focus group discussion with more respondents or adopting a mixed-methods approach may increase our understanding of the investment decision behaviors of Indian retail investors and fund managers. Practical implications The findings have far-reaching consequences, from deepening our knowledge of investors’ motivations and actions to directing individual savers, informing the development of financial literacy initiatives, influencing fund management practices and inspiring additional research in this study area. Originality/value This research, including retail investors and fund managers, significantly contributes to the literature on investment decisions and behavioral finance, particularly in the context of Indian investors and managers. This study’s unique perspective and comprehensive approach make it a valuable addition to the field, sparking interest and further exploration among academics, practitioners and investors alike.

Drifting Away from the Roots: Genderfluidity as Diola’s Mangrove Fishing Strategies in Three Island-Villages of Northern Guinea-Bissau

AbstractBiodiversity loss, habitat degradation, globalization, and societal transformations are challenging rural, and especially coastal communities in Guinea-Bissau where mangrove-dependent livelihoods are exposed to increased vulnerability. The Diola, traditional farmer-fishermen of the northern island-villages, have witnessed swift societal changes following the country’s economic liberalization, climate change, and youth migration from rural areas. Despite historically being a secondary subsistence activity with more predefined gender roles rooted in tradition, mangrove fishing has become a major source of cash income. Yet, women’s mangrove fishing contributions are still overlooked, resulting in general assumptions of static female fishing identities with limited control over their income. We present three case studies of Diola women’s involvement in mangrove fishing through a mixed method approach that combines qualitative techniques and household surveys conducted between 2017 and 2023. Specifically, we explore: (1) diverging societal coping strategies and livelihood developments in three Diola villages; (2) the primary drivers behind village-specific societal transformations; (3) social dynamics and female roles in mangrove fishing-related activities and village decision-making; and (4) the political ecology of interventions. Our findings underscore the complexity of gender-fluid small-scale fishing strategies as female roles beyond fish trade defy cultural generalizations. Contemporary Diola women make autonomous personal and work choices that meet their current needs and add to their household budget to face new welfare demands. Inclusive resource governance needs more gender-specific data for meaningfully implemented interventions adapted to local circumstances, enabling an active participation of all genders in conservation practices and development.

Analisis Semiotika Feminisme Radikal dalam Film Poor Things

The issue of feminism has been a topic of intense and in-depth discussion in various circles, involving a variety of perspectives in academic, social, and cultural studies. Social dynamics that occur such as social class injustice based on gender, oppression of women, sexism, patriarchal ideology that defines women as objects of sexuality and so on make this issue raised in any media, one of which is film. In this study, researchers are interested in analyzing the film Poor Things directed by Yorgos Lanthimos from a script by Tony McNamara which highlights women having freedom over their bodies, the setting of this film was taken in the Victorian era where at that time women were considered a second class that functioned to satisfy male sexual urges. This research aims to explain the meaning of the semiotic code of radical feminism in Poor Things directed by Yorgos Lanthimos from a script by Tony McNamara which highlights women having freedom over their bodies. The method used in this research is a qualitative approach with John Fiske's semiotic analysis based on codes that are divided into three levels, namely the level of reality, representation and ideology. The results show the values of radical feminism at the level of reality through the codes of appearance, makeup, costumes, speech, environment and behavior. At the representation level, the values of feminism are shown through the codes of camera, character, action, conflict and dialog. At the ideological level, radical feminism found in the movie Poor Things is included in patriarchal ideology. In the movie Poor Things, the level of ideology displayed is patriarchy where women are considered as a second class that functions to satisfy men's sexual urges.

Syncopation Struggles: Decoding Rhythmic Challenges in Ghanaian Arts Music

This study explored the vital role of rhythm in Ghanaian arts and music, focusing on its significance for cultural preservation and education amid globalization challenges. Using a qualitative methodology grounded in Ethnomusicology, the research examined how traditional rhythms are taught and interpreted, with particular emphasis on the role of choir directors. The findings indicate that current interpretive methods may not adequately preserve the authenticity of these rhythms, affecting educational and cultural transmission. The study recommends developing more precise interpretation techniques and an interdisciplinary approach in music education to improve the understanding and preservation of the cultural heritage of Ghana. This research contributes to scholarship by highlighting the cognitive and social dynamics in music education and stressing the urgency of safeguarding cultural authenticity in traditional Ghanaian music practices. Its implications extend beyond academic circles, influencing pedagogical practices in music education worldwide. Keywords: Ethnomusicology of Ghanaian Arts Music, Rhythm Interpretation, Cultural Heritage Preservation, Music Education, Cognitive Processes in Music

Research Dynamics and Frontiers of Environmental, Social, and Governance Disclosure: Bibliometric Visual Analysis Based on CiteSpace

Abstract: With the increasing global attention on sustainable development and corporate social responsibility, studying the dynamics and frontiers of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) disclosure is of great significance to academia, corporate practice, and policy-making. This study employs CiteSpace for bibliometric visual analysis, utilizing methods such as keyword co-occurrence analysis, cluster analysis, and research theme evolution analysis to comparatively analyze the differences in ESG research between domestic and international contexts. The study reveals the hotspots, trends, and development directions of ESG disclosure research. The findings indicate a steady growth in the number of publications in the ESG disclosure research field, with research themes shifting from singular environmental information disclosure to a more comprehensive focus on social responsibility and governance structures. This study not only provides researchers with new perspectives, expanding and deepening the themes of ESG research, but also offers references for companies to enhance ESG disclosure and for policy-making, thus holding significant theoretical and practical implications.

Strengthening uptake of breast cancer screening services in Tanzania; re-visiting the breast cancer screening messages

BackgroundBreast Cancer remains among the top five cancers responsible for morbidity and mortality globally. For many years, infectious (communicable) diseases were a primary concern in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) compared to higher-income countries, where non-communicable diseases (NCDs) were already a major concern. However, starting from the early 2000s, the LMICs including Tanzania has witnessed an epidemiological transition being equally affected by NCDs, and breast cancer, is among the prevalent NCDs. While the evidence is vast on the role of breast cancer screening messages in promoting screening, debunking myths, and addressing barriers to the uptake of breast cancer services, context-specific messages are limited. Amidst the changing technology, growth of social media and cultural dynamics, context-specific breast cancer screening messages are needed. We aimed to analyze the breast cancer screening messages from the experiences of women seeking care at Ocean Road Cancer Institute in Tanzania.MethodsAn exploratory qualitative case study adopting in-depth interviews (IDI) and focused group discussion (FGD) was carried out among purposefully selected women aged from 18 years to 65 years seeking care from Ocean Road Cancer Institute in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Eighteen women participated in the IDIs, and 16 women participated in FGD. Data analysis followed inductive qualitative content analysis.FindingsThree main categories emerged: the existence of multiple sources of breast cancer screening messages, the strengths and weaknesses of breast cancer screening messages, and clients’ mixed perceptions of breast cancer screening messages.ConclusionThe findings of this study depict that although breast cancer screening promotion messages are regarded as a source of information about cancers, they fall short of completeness and relevance to the otherwise at-risk population and trigger negative perceptions toward screening. Therefore, this study advocates revisiting the breast cancer screening messages, employing participatory approaches to tailor the screening messages and communication media to fit specific audiences. This calls for re-designing both the content of the messages and means of delivery; thus, collaborative efforts are needed.

Migration and Economic Development: The Role of Migrant Flows in Shaping Turkey’s Emerging Economy and Uncovering Hidden Conflicts and Challenges

This research examines the economic impact of migration on Turkey's emerging economy, with a particular focus on the contributions of migrant remittances, labor market dynamics, and the socio-political challenges associated with large-scale migrant flows. By employing econometric models and field research, the study explores the relationship between remittance inflows and key economic indicators such as GDP growth, employment rates, and poverty reduction. Additionally, the research uncovers hidden conflicts and social tensions that arise from migration, including labor market inequalities and integration challenges faced by both migrants and Turkish workers. The project evaluates government policies, such as the EU-Turkey refugee agreement, and their effects on economic development and social stability. Field research in migrant-receiving communities reveals the complexities of labor competition and the social dynamics created by migrant dependency in sectors such as agriculture and construction. Findings highlight the need for inclusive migration policies that balance the economic benefits of remittances with the social integration challenges faced by migrant populations. This study also advocates for stronger labor protections and regulatory reforms to mitigate tensions and reduce exploitation in low-wage sectors. The research contributes to the broader understanding of migration’s role in shaping Turkey’s economy and provides insights for policymakers seeking to address both the economic and social dimensions of migration.

Russian-Ukraine War and its Impact on the European Economy

This study examines the impact of the Russian-Ukraine war on the economy of Europe, concentrating on trade disruptions, energy security, foreign direct investment (FDI) flows, and the socioeconomic ramifications of the war[1]induced refugee crisis. This study employs the descriptive research design, qualitative research method and a secondary source of data collection. The research uncovers the problems and possibilities coming from the war, as well as the larger implications for economic growth, development, and stability in the area. The results reveal severe interruptions to commercial links between European nations, especially Russia, and Ukraine, with key sectors such as energy, manufacturing, and agriculture facing considerable disruptions. Energy security emerges as a significant worry, spurring attempts to diversify energy sources and lessen dependence on Russian supply. Meanwhile, the war has resulted in a drop in FDI inflows to Russia and Ukraine, aggravating economic concerns in both nations and hurting their growth prospects. Furthermore, the research shows the burden on social welfare systems in European nations hosting migrants, since the inflow of refugees exerts great demands on resources and capabilities. Investments in housing, health care, education, and social welfare are vital for satisfying the different needs of displaced people and facilitating their long-term integration into society. However, issues connected to social cohesiveness, community connections, and political dynamics within host nations also occur. The study recommends diplomatic resolution of the dispute through peaceful discussions, involving European Union (EU) member states- Russia, Ukraine, and other parties. This could involve neutral mediation, de-escalating initiatives, and confidence-building measures.

Reclamation satisfaction and post-mining land use potential in Central Appalachia, US

Community support for the mining industry depends upon satisfactory reclamation that preserves the land's potential to benefit the landowners and communities after the mining period. Abandoned mines that have been reclaimed poorly can often lead to a decline in local support for mining. Using the case of surface mining in Kentucky, this study assessed and compared landowners’ and their neighboring residents’ perceptions of environmental change, satisfaction with reclamation, and perceived barriers and opportunities to use reclaimed land to benefit the landowners and the broader community. We found poor satisfaction with reclamation efforts and only modest success in effectively managing reclaimed land for the intended use, largely because of inadequate reclamation. Financial incentives, legal assurance, and better reinforcement of reclamation rules were perceived to be potentially useful policy interventions to help landowners use the reclaimed lands effectively. Although they were acceptable to residents, landowners were quite unlikely to adopt educational projects, public parks, and biofuel crops. However, they were relatively more likely to adopt farmland, timber, and nature conservation and these uses were highly acceptable to the neighboring residents as well. Although this study focused on mining, the findings shed light on the social dynamics of mining's effects, reclamation, and the feasibility of land use alternatives in regions influenced by extractive industries.

I trust (you) therefore I am! From trust to post-trust: Transforming social paradigms

This paper challenges the conventional belief that trust is an essential component of social cohesion, for example, in the context of climate change denial and post-truth politics. It argues that simply increasing trust or distrust does not address the underlying issues of contemporary societal challenges. This is because these efforts presuppose a ‘trusting subject’ at the heart of the problem. The paper examines the process of subjectification, exploring forms of modern subjectification and how they relate to trust, and how individuals become trusting subjects in relation to and within certain social frameworks. Introducing a new typology, it categorises trust into subjectifying, counter-subjectifying and post-subjectifying forms, revealing how trust both influences and is influenced by social dynamics and power structures. The conclusion advocates a ‘post-trust’ approach, urging a reimagining of relationships with nature and others. This approach emphasises the interconnectedness of human and non-human actors and calls for new forms of relationality and sensitivity to address global challenges effectively.

The interplay of identity fusion, social norms, and pro-environmental behavior: an exploration using the dictator game

ABSTRACT This research investigated how identity fusion with environmental issues interacts with social norms to shape pro-environmental behaviors, elucidating the psychological structure underlying environmental ideological engagement. Building upon a measure of identity fusion that captures both relational and doctrinal components of Zmigrod ideology framework, we found that higher identity fusion positively predicted donations to an environmental association in a Dictator Game paradigm. Importantly, results revealed an interaction between identity fusion and norm source on donation amounts. For individuals lower in environmental identity fusion, pro-environmental norms had a greater impact when originating from a sourcesharing their worldview (low-fused) compared to a distant group (high-fused). However, for individuals with high fusion, norm source proximity did not significantly impact donations. By illuminating this interplay between the relational and doctrinal facets of ideological thinking, this research advances understanding of the social and psychological motivators of environmental actions. These findings highlight the importance of considering identity alignment and social dynamics in fostering ecological engagement.

Scoping review of literature and systematic search of web-based resources: parasport classification instructions, experiences, and outcomes

ABSTRACT While classification is essential to parasport, members of the Paralympic Movement commonly report having limited access to information on the topic. Despite increased academic interest in recent years, the total body of research on classification has not yet been mapped or documented. To assess the breadth of literature on classification, we conducted a scoping review following the protocol set forth by Arksey and O’Malley (2005). Additionally, we completed a six-step systematic online search as outlined by Stansfield et al. (2016) to document the type and quality of information on classification available outside bibliographic databases. The most frequent topics discussed in the literature were (a) coach/classifier roles during classification, (b) athletes’ perspectives on classification, and (c) the influence of classification on athletes’ participation (e.g. on social dynamics, athlete development). Webpages reviewed were of relatively low quality, with <50% reporting authorship, references, or a statement of disclosure. Webpages reviewed were primarily produced by national/international sport organizations and provided more professional (i.e. technical) information on classification than inter-/intrapersonal information or instruction. This review provides insight into the type and quality of classification knowledge available to parasport participants and may inform future research and practice related to parasport at all levels.

Small localities, large conflicts: radical right parties and the politics of integration policymaking in two European medium-sized towns

ABSTRACT Integration policies emerged as a critical focus of local policymaking in smaller towns, driven not only by migration trends in these areas, but also by the growing political influence of local radical right parties (RRPs). This trend occurred across various European countries, including Belgium and Italy, raising new questions about the impact on policy formation of locally embedded RRPs and the social and political polarisation dynamics which foster their growth. Despite growing scholarly attention to the role of local actors in shaping integration policies, these dynamics have mostly been studied in large cities. Therefore, this article aims to explore the effects of RRPs’ rise on integration policies in Ninove (Belgium) and Fermo (Italy), two diversifying and deindustrialising medium-sized towns governed by liberal coalitions, but with a strong opposition presence of RRPs. Adopting a comparative perspective, it utilises document analysis of national and local integration policymaking, complemented by 34 interviews with local actors. The results show that RRPs shape local agenda setting and local governing parties respond by creating policy ambiguity around policies targeting migrants. Specifically, they invest in policies that aim to support integration, but make sustained attempts to disguise that migrants are the target population for these policies.