The Influence of Education on Hungarian Attitudes Towards Immigration

Abstract

In recent years, immigration has become a focal point in political science, prompting a substantial body of literature. This study seeks to contribute to the discourse by investigating the impact of education (X) - an influential socio-demographic factor - on attitudes towards immigration (Y) in Hungary. To qualify the results, the influence of political alignment and key socio-demographic factors – including gender, age and religiosity –, are analysed as control variables. The study also considers how political alignment, and age may interact with education to shape these attitudes. Results from multiple linear regression models indicate that higher educational level correlates with more positive attitudes toward immigration; however, the association is conditional by political alignment and age. The study employs data from the European Social Survey (ESS), with a particular focus on Hungary during 2020-2022 (ESS-Round 10), to contribute to the understanding of the relationship between educational levels and attitudes towards immigration.