Double Discrimination: Attitudes toward Syrian and Ukrainian Immigrant Entrepreneurs' Job Postings in Türkiye

Abstract

This study uses a vignette experiment to examine the discriminatory attitudes towards immigrant entrepreneurs. The aim is to assess how biases based on ethnicity affect the job application intentions directed towards immigrant entrepreneurs, specifically comparing those from Syria and Ukraine with their Turkish counterparts. The research addresses several objectives: to determine whether discriminatory practices against immigrant entrepreneurs differ from those faced by immigrant workers; to explore the presence and nature of discrimination against immigrant entrepreneurs in Türkiye, including taste-based and statistical forms of discrimination; to investigate potential double discrimination between entrepreneurs of Middle Eastern (Syria) and European (Ukraine) origins; and to analyze whether ethnic cues in job advertisements influence job application intentions. Findings reveal that immigrant entrepreneurs experience significant discrimination, with Syrian entrepreneurs facing more bias compared to Ukrainians, influenced by geopolitical and cultural factors. This study offers a new perspective by examining how potential applicants respond to job advertisements from immigrant entrepreneurs, differing from previous research on discrimination faced by immigrant workers. The results highlight the need for inclusive policies and practices to support immigrant entrepreneurs and enhance their participation in the Turkish economy, contributing to a more equitable and diverse entrepreneurial landscape.