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Does your research or work in government involve questions concerning refugee/asylum seeker flows? Out this week in the American Political Science Review, my most recent research with Benjamin Krick and an outstanding team of (now former) University of California, Merced Political Violence Lab members: Judy Blancaflor, Xavier Liu, Ghassan Samara, Sarah Yein Ku, Shengkuo Hu, Ph.D., Joshua Angelo, Martha Carreon, Trishia Lim, Rachel Raps, Alyssa Velasquez, Sofia D., and Ian Zhanyi Zuo. https://lnkd.in/gyUez9PV In this article, following a multiyear collaboration with UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, we reevaluate 28 studies published over decades on the causes and consequences of refugee flows. This collaboration culminated in the release of new international displacement flow data; for details, see: https://lnkd.in/g6YeUWP5 Historically, empirical refugee flow research has relied on stock-based estimates, which do not account for naturalizations, returns, or resettlements (hereafter “stock departures”); births and deaths; or any other variable affecting host-country stock levels. Additional problems include left-censoring; lagging flows when countries use asylum systems to grant refugee status; erroneously including population values for third country resettlements; amongst others. The new data capture many millions more flows than the stock-based data from 1962 to 2022. It captures the new movements of individuals across international borders who have not yet been formally designated as refugees. Examples include the many tens of thousands who have fled the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the recent outflows of Afghans to Iran and Pakistan that have followed the Taliban's 2021 seizure of power. In our contemporary reanalyses, amongst other things, we find that refugees are only infrequently conduits of violence, and the conditions under which forced displacement poses a risk to host countries appear to be specific. These findings speak against the new politics of fear, challenging political narratives that frame refugees as security threats and the restrictive state policies they underpin. Additionally, our replications sometimes supported hypotheses discarded when tested with lower-quality data for lack of statistical support. Other meaningful relationships may have therefore gone undiscovered, which scholars might now retest with these new data. We are extremely grateful for the feedback on this project from Lamis Abdelaaty, Kyle Beardsley, Mietek Boduszyński, Alex Bollfrass, Alex Braithwaite, Santiago Mateo Villamizar Chaparro, Elaine K. Denny, James Fearon, Guy Grossman, Biz Herman, Ph.D., Connor Huff, Adam Lichtenheld, PhD, Bryce Loidolt, Eric Mvukiyehe, Fouad Pervez, PhD, Ryan Powers, David Siegel, Abbey Steele, and Yang-Yang Zhou.

Refugee resettlement programs are vital for the well-being and integration of refugees into new communities. Here are the top 5 reasons, supported by research and literature, on why everyone should embrace and support these programs: 1. Humanitarian Responsibility: Supporting refugee resettlement is a manifestation of global solidarity and humanitarianism. The 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol emphasize the international obligation to protect refugees, individuals who have fled their countries due to a well-founded fear of persecution. By embracing resettlement programs, societies fulfill their moral and legal responsibilities to protect those in need (UNHCR, 2011). 2. Economic Contributions: Refugees contribute significantly to their host countries' economies. Research from the Tent Partnership for Refugees and the Fiscal Policy Institute shows that refugees bring diverse skills and entrepreneurship, leading to job creation and economic revitalization in communities that welcome them. Over time, they add billions of dollars to the GDP and improve the labor market (Fiscal Policy Institute, 2017; Tent Partnership for Refugees). 3. Cultural Diversity and Enrichment: Resettlement programs promote cultural diversity and enrichment, fostering greater understanding and cooperation among different communities. By learning from each other’s cultures, traditions, and experiences, resettled refugees and host communities can build more inclusive societies. This cultural exchange enhances social cohesion and community resilience (Ager and Strang, 2008). 4. Demographic Benefits: Many countries facing demographic challenges, such as an aging population and declining workforce, can benefit from the youthful energy and demographic diversity that refugees often bring. By integrating into the labor force, refugees help counterbalance these demographic shifts, supporting the sustainability of social security systems and economic growth (OECD, 2018). 5. Global Stability and Security: Supporting refugee resettlement can contribute to global stability and security. By providing safe havens for refugees, resettlement programs reduce the burden on frontline states that host the majority of the world’s refugees. This support helps maintain stability in regions strained by large refugee populations and can prevent further displacement. Moreover, successful integration of refugees into host societies can counteract the narratives used by extremist groups to recruit marginalized individuals (Koser, 2016). These reasons underscore the importance of embracing and supporting refugee resettlement programs. They not only help fulfill a humanitarian duty but also bring numerous benefits to host communities, from economic gains to cultural enrichment and global stability.Bethany Christian Services IRC Catholic Relief Services UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency

Refugees are a symptom of collective failure – only working together will tackle the root causes. Filippo Grandi. On the eve of a major summit, Filippo Grandi, UN high commissioner for refugees Grandi shares his vision and calls for a new global mindset. At a time of multiple conflicts, deep geopolitical divisions and rising numbers of people forced to flee their homes, to proclaim that an international conference can find solutions for world’s refugees might seem to be stretching the definition of optimism. According to our latest estimates, there are 36.4 million refugees worldwide, out of a total displaced population (including the internally displaced) of a staggering 114 million. This global refugee population has doubled the past seven years, a reflection of the violence and human rights abuses that seem to be afflicting more and more countries. At the same time, many states are cutting humanitarian aid and development budgets. And rather than efforts to address the root causes of displacement, we hear tough talk –mainly from wealthy and well resourced states– about turning outsiders away, making it harder to seek the right to asylum and offloading responsibility on to others. Thus it might seem an inauspicious moment to be holding the 2nd Global Refugee Forum, which will take place in Geneva this week. But I beg to differ. The forum is a much-needed moment of global unity, where those who are determined to keep searching for solutions will come together to meet the huge challenge of forced displacement. An array of participants –states, the private sector and charitable foundations, international financial institutions, UN agencies, humanitarian and develop-ment organisations of all sizes, cities and local authorities, NGOs, refugee-led organisations, faith groups– will make concrete and transformational pledges and contributions, and take stock of the progress made since the first forum in 2019. Sharing responsibility is crucial. Today, almost 75% of refugees are in countries neighbouring their own, mainly low- and middle-income states. Those countries do what they can, often with limited resources, but they deserve much greater international support to sustain this generosity. .

In a world that echoes with the whispers of displaced souls, the tales of refugees paint a poignant canvas of resilience, strength, and hope. Picture this: a mosaic of dreams, shattered yet vivid; a symphony of languages, diverse yet harmonious. From distant lands, they arrive, seeking sanctuary from the storm of strife, in a quest for peace and rebirth. Recently, l had the privilege to attend a module on Migration and Development under The Leadership Advancement Programme (LAP) Fellowship, hosted by the University Forum on Governance (UNIFOG) and the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Uganda and South Sudan. The sessions were truly enlightening and thought-provoking.💡 Session 1, led by Ms. Solomy Awiidi from the Refugee Law Project Uganda, shed light on the global refugee situation and the implications of migration for both host countries and places of origin. We also discussed the crucial roles of key stakeholders in refugee management. As young individuals, we learned how we can contribute to addressing refugee challenges. Session 2, facilitated by Mr. Peter Kisaakye, a dedicated researcher, explored the intersection between demography and migration. We delved into the significance of Uganda's demography in the context of migration trends, pondering whether it's a dividend or a disaster. I am grateful to the organizers and the wonderful moderators for these insightful sessions. It's clear that youth have a vital role to play in advocating for refugees and addressing migration-related issues. 🌟 Here are some lessons we can take away: 1️⃣ We must amplify the voices of refugees and migrants, ensuring their stories are heard and understood. 2️⃣ Advocate for inclusive policies that promote social integration and support the well-being of refugees and migrants. 3️⃣ Embrace diversity and combat discrimination, fostering a more inclusive society. 4️⃣Engage in informed discussions about the impact of migration on demographics and seek sustainable solutions. The video recording of these sessions is attached, allowing us to continue our journey of learning and advocacy. Let's stand together, for in unity lies the strength to reshape the narratives and create a world where every soul finds a sanctuary. UNIFOG LAP Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung IOM - UN Migration Chido Cleopatra Mpemba Elizabeth Ongom Solomy Awiidi

When I started at HIAS five years ago, there were just shy of 80 million forcibly displaced people. Now it's 120 million. According to the UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, one in 69 people globally — or 1.5% of the entire world’s population — was forcibly displaced in 2023. The impacts are felt on every continent, not just those who are displaced themselves, but also the communities welcoming them. “While we celebrate the resilience of people who are refugees on #WorldRefugeeDay, recognizing their talents and human potential, the jump from 110 to 120 million is nothing to celebrate. If displaced persons cannot safely and voluntarily return home, the international community needs to work harder to make sure they have a place to call home, so they are refugees no more. That work starts with each one of us, welcoming the refugees and asylum seekers who live in our own communities.” - HIAS President & CEO Mark Hetfield "HIAS’ protection efforts will continue to emphasize the rights of all forcibly displaced people. We also recognize the centrality of the local voices and the needs of the host communities, as well as climate change’s disproportionate impact on displaced populations, in our program design and operations.” - HIAS Chief Programs Officer Raphael Marcus Though World Refugee Day is officially June 20, every day is World Refugee Day for the equivalent of California, New York, Texas, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and New Jersey's combined populations. We have our work cut out for us. #refugeeswelcome #refugeesupport #displacedpeople #statelesspeople #asylumseekers #asylum #immigration #refugees #humanitarianaid #humanitarianism

World Refugee Day 2024 Each year, the world observes June 20th as #WorldRefugeeDay, a day dedicated to recognizing the plight of refugees globally. On this day, organizations that advocate for refugees, including the United Nations and UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, remind governments and societies of their crucial role in preventing forced displacement and in welcoming those fleeing persecution by opening their borders and homes. This year’s World Refugee Day coincides with significant political events in leading global powers such as the USA and UK, where upcoming elections will heavily influence how these nations address issues related to migrants and refugees. Unfortunately, current trends suggest a challenging environment for these vulnerable populations. Simultaneously, governments in the Global South are implementing measures that exacerbate displacement, while the ongoing conflict in Gaza further undermines hopes for a rule-based global order. Despite these daunting circumstances, it is essential to remain hopeful and proactive. Climate shocks have become a persistent driver of displacement, weakening community resilience through floods, droughts, tsunamis, and other climate-induced migrations. We must take both individual and collective actions to prevent forced displacements. Reflecting on this day, I recall my formative years as a refugee in Dadaab, Kenya, one of the largest refugee camps in the world. Dadaab has changed significantly, with donor fatigue affecting education and livelihoods, leaving refugees in a state of uncertainty. Although Somalia has made strides towards state-building, challenges such as insecurity, corruption, and a lack of visionary leadership at both local and national levels persist, resulting in a record number of IDPs with no signs of improvement. Somalia has recently been forgiven of its debt, paving the way for access to international funding. However, there is a risk of further deterioration without good governance and a shared understanding of state-building and ownership. It is a stark reminder that we must strive to do better for the future of refugees and displaced persons. On World Refugee Day, we honour the strength and resilience of millions who have fled conflict, persecution, and natural disasters. Displacement is a global challenge affecting countless individuals and families. Today, we recognize refugees' immense hardships, yet we are also inspired by their determination to rebuild their lives. Refugees are a valuable asset to the communities that welcome them, bringing a wealth of skills and experience that enrich the social fabric of their new homes. World Refugee Day is a time to recommit ourselves to creating a more welcoming world. Let us all learn more about the refugee experience and advocate for policies that promote safety and opportunity for those displaced.

Did you know that Refugees and refugee-led organizations have been advocating for decades for their rights to self-rep- resentation and meaningful participation in the shaping of policies that impact their own lives? Well , these extensive global efforts have resulted in more actors in the refugee response field recognizing refu- gee participation as key to addressing displacement. This recognition is important, but it is not nearly enough. Enabling refugee participation requires internal and external changes, some of which may seem overwhelming. Our hope is that these guide- lines provide allies and colleagues with a roadmap for how to turn their commitments into successful partnerships, actions, projects and polices. Whole-hearted commitment is needed in order to weather the complexities of making the transition to a fully representative sector run with and for refugees. It is not enough to add refugees as panel- ists or to hire a refugee staff member; rather, we challenge the response sector to enter into a period of self-reflection, to identify the concrete steps that will enable and break down barriers to meaning- ful participation, and to commit time and resources to enact plans. Will the refugee response sector at large continue trying to assist refugees as beneficiaries and vic- tims? Or, will global actors be bold and humble enough to partner and work with them instead? We invite you to take the challenge and begin transformation. This is our chance to uncover and enable dignifying, respectful solutions for refugees everywhere. Read the full report here https://lnkd.in/gkr2Z6qG Global Refugee Led Network (grn) UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency United Nations USA for UNHCR UNHCR Canada Refugee Studies Centre, University of Oxford Refugee Resettlement Initiative Refugee Academy - Institute for Societal Resilience Refugee Talent Hub WeAreCohere Asylum Access Oxfam International Amer Alkayed Najeeba Wazefadost Anila Noor Shaza Alrihawi

Finding Freedom: World Refugee Day 2024 Conference in Kenya As World Refugee Day 2024 approaches, the global community prepares to reflect on the theme of "finding freedom" amidst the challenges faced by refugees, particularly those living in urban areas of Kenya. Kenya, with its vibrant urban centers, has become home to a significant population of refugees seeking safety and a chance to rebuild their lives. The conference will highlight the struggles and triumphs of these communities, showcasing their resilience in the face of adversity. It will also serve as a platform for policymakers, NGOs, academics, and refugees themselves to come together and explore innovative solutions to the complex issues surrounding displacement. Agenda 1. Legal and Social Integration: One of the primary challenges faced by refugees in urban Kenya is legal status and integration into the host society. Panel discussions will focus on the importance of legal frameworks that protect refugee rights and promote their inclusion in economic and social spheres. Experts will share best practices and success stories of initiatives that have empowered refugees to become self-sufficient and active contributors to their communities. 2. Education and Skill Development: Access to education and skills training is crucial for refugees to regain a sense of independence and purpose. Workshops will explore strategies to improve educational opportunities for refugee children and adults alike, emphasizing the role of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and dependency. 3. Health and Well-being: Refugees often face significant health challenges due to their displacement. The conference will address issues such as access to healthcare services, mental health support, and sanitation in urban refugee settlements. It will advocate for holistic approaches that prioritize the well-being of refugees and promote community-based health initiatives. 4. Empowerment through Entrepreneurship: Economic empowerment plays a vital role in enabling refugees to achieve freedom and self-reliance. Sessions will highlight successful entrepreneurship ventures led by refugees in Kenya, discussing how support networks and microfinance programs can foster economic independence and resilience. As delegates convene for World Refugee Day 2024 in Kenya, there will be a resounding call to action. Participants will be encouraged to commit to tangible steps that promote freedom, dignity, and opportunity for refugees. This may include advocating for policy reforms, mobilizing resources for humanitarian aid, or forging partnerships that empower refugees to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. Amani Kibera PAMOJA TRUST Resilience Action International L'Afrikana org UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency Kituo Cha Sheria Legal Advice Centre Jesuit Refugee Service German Sparkassenstiftung for International Cooperation (DSIK) - South East Asia DEPARTMENT OF REFUGEE AFFAIRS GiveDirectly

🌏✨ Recap from the Event: "Refugee Voices from Southeast Asia: Commemorating Refugee Day" Workshop ✨🌏 On June 26, 2024, AIT hosted an impactful workshop in collaboration with Center on Gender and Forced Displacement, School of Environment, Resources and Development _AIT, Jesuit Refugee Service, and Asylum Access Thailand, focusing on the challenges and resilience of refugee communities. 👨🏫The workshop delved into in-depth policy analysis, examining current refugee policies through the lens of refugees' lived experiences. Heartfelt refugee stories were shared through audiovisual presentations, providing profound insights into their journeys and resilience. 📚 Academic sessions featured discussions on forced migration issues, highlighting perspectives from various refugee groups, including the Rohingya. A vibrant cultural exhibition showcased refugee art and cuisine, celebrating their rich cultural diversity. Prof. Paula Banerjee underscored the daily struggles and resilience of refugees, emphasizing the need for advocacy and support. 🙏Special thanks to the Bangkok Post and the Asian Institute of Technology Public Affairs Office for their coverage and for raising awareness about the event 📰🙌, helping us advocate for refugee rights. Refugee Day is more than a single day of observance; it is a continuous fight for the rights of refugee communities. For the full story and insights, click here👆: https://lnkd.in/eQuTR_qX #RefugeeVoices #SupportRefugees #HumanRights #CommunityStrength

The Nakivale refugee settlement, established in 1958 and officially recognized in 1960, is a historic site. As the 8th largest refugee camp globally, it's located approximately 200 km from Kampala, Uganda's capital. Covering 180 square kilometers, it comprises Base camp, Juru, and Rubondo zones with 74 villages, providing refuge to 144.000 individuals from various nations, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Somalia, Rwanda, Ethiopia, and Eritrea. Ongoing conflicts in nearby regions result in continuous arrivals. The Nakivale refugee community faces a complex set of challenges, including a pronounced digital divide, limited financial literacy, inadequate economic opportunities, and barriers to entrepreneurship. The diverse composition of the community, coupled with ongoing arrivals, can lead to social isolation and strain on resources. Educational limitations, cultural diversity, and lack of necessities, further compound these difficulties, resulting in an overall lack of empowerment. The proposed Refugee Empowerment Project seeks to comprehensively address these pain points and create a foundation for sustainable development within the refugee community.