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Shaping refugee integration policy and practice globally

Why we need research to address the problems associated with refugee integration

 

One of the most significant issues facing communities across the world is the movement of refugees from countries affected by conflict, unrest, poverty, natural disaster and persecution. The enormity of the challenges in adapting to life in a new country cannot be overstated. Most refugees have to learn a new language, navigate a new culture, acquire new skills and develop a new way of living while dealing with trauma and the loss of family, friends, homes and jobs.

There are also challenges for established communities to adjust to welcome and include the newcomers.

Across the globe, there has been a lack of understanding about what refugees actually need to help them build a new life and sense of belonging in a new country. Such effective integration is crucial in allowing refugees to adapt and embrace to their new surroundings and become active citizens who have social connections, and who contribute positively to their new communities.

Lack of investment in integration and a lack of coherence in provision for refugee communities has led to prolonging the dependence of resettling refugees (resulting from factors including limited access to basic languages classes, insecurity of legal status, inadequate and short-term housing, or lack of effective routes into employment, poor mental health). This in turn prevents the building of new social networks and instead provokes isolation and distrust between refugees and members of their new communities undermining the development of strong cohesive communities.

Research and Knowledge Exchange Development Unit

Show Contacts

Research and Knowledge Exchange Development Unit

Kim Stuart Head of Research and Knowledge Exchange Development Unit 0131 474 0000
RKE - Vivian Mathieson Research and Knowledge Exchange Officer 0131 474 0000

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