Does cultural identity influence the probability of employment during economic crises?

This paper examines the relationships between cultural identity and immigrants’ likelihood of finding employment during economic crises. Drawing on Italian data from the Social Condition and Integration of Foreign Citizens (SCIF) survey, we develop a multidimensional measure of cultural identity that incorporates both self-identification and observable factors. The analysis reveals that cultural identity significantly affects employment outcomes, with dual identity (where immigrants maintain both their identity of origin and adopt aspects of the host country’s identity) proving to be the most beneficial for securing employment, even in a labour market constrained by an economic recession. This effect is evident for both men and women, although it is more pronounced among women. Based on these findings, policies that discourage the preservation of one’s original identity are not justified if the goal is to enhance immigrants’ success in the labour market. This study highlights the necessity of policies that promote cultural integration while also supporting cultural diversity.