Inequalities in Life Expectancy between Migrants and Natives across Europe

Su Yeon Jang , Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research
Wilma Nusselder, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam

In many of the traditional in-migration countries, migrants appear to outlive natives, despite their relatively low socioeconomic positions within the receiving society. This study aims to examine the inequalities in life expectancy between immigrants and natives, and the role of education in the disparities. Using the newly harmonized administrative data on mortality from 10 countries in Europe, we estimate the partial life expectancies between age 35 and 80 by sex, immigrant status, and education. Our findings indicate a smaller educational gradient in life expectancy for immigrants than for natives. The negative impact of low education on immigrant life expectancy was reduced in wealthier, migrant-friendly nations. Differences in age and education contributed variably to the life expectancy gap across regions. This novel cross-national research offers insights into the immigrant-native mortality gap in Europe, assisting in shaping European social policies.

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 Presented in Session P2. Health, Mortality, Ageing - Aperitivo