Unpacking the Integration Paradox: The Impact of Muslim Religion, Destination Context, and Personal Characteristics on Perceived Discrimination

Perceived discrimination is the feeling of being treated unfairly because of the belonging to a particular group. This study explores three factors contributing to this among migrants: exposure to discrimination, language proficiency, and unmet expectations. Using European Social Survey data, it examines how personal traits (e.g., generation, language, education) and policy contexts influence perceived discrimination. Results highlight an “integration paradox,” where more integrated Muslim migrants, especially second-generation, report higher discrimination. The study also finds that the integration setting moderates the relationship between migrant generation and perceived discrimination, suggesting that integration policies may have short-term unintended consequences.