Refugee migration networks and regulations: a multiclass, multipath variational inequality framework

Abstract

In this paper, we take up the timely topic of the modeling, analysis, and solution of refugee migration networks. We construct a general, multiclass, multipath model, determine the governing equilibrium conditions, and provide alternative variational inequality formulations in path flows and in link flows. We also demonstrate how governmental imposed regulations associated with refugees can be captured via constraints. We provide qualitative properties and then establish, via a supernetwork transformation, that the model(s) are isomorphic to traffic network equilibrium models with fixed demands. Illustrative examples are given, along with numerical examples, inspired by a refugee crisis from Mexico to the United States, which are solved using the Euler method embedded with exact equilibration. The work sets the foundation for the development of additional models and algorithms and also provides insights as to who wins and who loses under certain refugee regulations.

Modeling of Covid‐19 trade measures on essential products: a multiproduct, multicountry spatial price equilibrium framework

“…Hence, the above prices are quite reasonable; see also Nagurney et al. (2020). Also, it is worth noting that all the supply market prices and all the demand markets prices are positive and none are at a value of 0.…”

“…Recall that the prices, which are in a common currency, are for a kilogram of N95 masks, which corresponds to 100-150 masks. Hence, the above prices are quite reasonable; see also Nagurney et al (2020). Also, it is worth noting that all the supply market prices and all the demand markets prices are positive and none are at a value of 0.…”

“…A related research stream that focuses on the movement of people, rather than products, in which regulations have also been incorporated into a network modeling equilibrium framework, is that on human migration (see Nagurney et al., 2020; Nagurney et al., 2021). In such human migration models, there are utility functions associated with different classes of migrants and origin and destination nodes, rather than supply and demand price functions.…”

“…Furthermore, Nagurney et al. (2020) have shown that, with subsidies, a system‐optimized solution for human migration can be achieved, even though migrants act independently and unilaterally. It is worthwhile to note that in the Covid‐19 pandemic migratory policies continue to be implemented (see Cappello et al., 2021).…”

“…The types of regulations typically restrict migration flows, whereas trade measures associated with products often entail pricing measures in the form of tariffs and/or price floors and ceilings. Furthermore, Nagurney et al (2020) have shown that, with subsidies, a system-optimized solution for human migration can be achieved, even though migrants act independently and unilaterally. It is worthwhile to note that in the Covid-19 pandemic migratory policies continue to be implemented (see Cappello et al, 2021).…”