Using independently sampled Gallup World Poll survey data from 140 countries, we explored the relationship between interpersonal contact and attitudes toward migrants from a perspective not typically found in the social psychological literature. We hypothesized that respondents who report personally knowing a migrant living in their home country would be more accepting of migrants generally (using a three-item Migrant Acceptance Index (MAI) score) than respondents who do not know a migrant. Results supported our hypothesis in 134 of the 140 countries suggesting that the strong relationship between interpersonal contact and attitudes toward migrants is near-universal. We also quantified migrant acceptance at the country level, finding a wide spectrum of attitudes toward migrants. Low acceptance countries were located primarily in Eastern and Southeastern Europe and high acceptance countries were located in Northern Europe and sub-Saharan Africa. We discuss these results in the context of interpersonal contact theory (Allport, 1954) and the larger context of global migration.
SIR,-May we draw the attention of former and present students of the Manchester Royal Infirmary to the above fund, which has been initiated to commemorate the 35 years of faithful service rendered to the institution by the late Sister French, who passed away in November last. It is intended to place (1) a tablet in her old ward in S.I. Unit, and (2) a small stained-glass window in the infirmary chapel. Contributions may be sent to the general superintendent and secretary at the infirmary, and will be duly acknowledged by him. We are, Sir, yours faithfully,
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