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Research on Refugee and Displacement Issues: Generating Insights to Inform Policy for Refugees, Displaced Persons, and Host Communities

Introduction/Overview


Research on Refugee and Displacement Issues refers to the systematic investigation of the challenges, trends, and opportunities faced by refugees and displaced persons. This research is essential for informing policies, developing effective programs, and advocating for the rights and well-being of refugees. It involves gathering data, conducting field studies, and analyzing the social, economic, and environmental impacts of displacement. Research helps to identify gaps in services, understand the barriers to integration, and find innovative solutions that improve the lives of refugees globally.


Refugee Pathways & Integration Canada (RefPIC) conducts and disseminates research on these issues to inform evidence-based policy development and advocacy. Our research focuses on critical areas such as refugee integration, access to healthcare, employment opportunities, education, mental health, and environmental sustainability. Through collaborations with academic institutions, policymakers, and civil society organizations, we aim to generate insights that lead to actionable policies and improved refugee services.


Key international frameworks that guide our research efforts include:


  • Global Compact on Refugees (2018), which promotes data collection and research to better understand refugee needs and improve protection strategies.


  • Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), which emphasizes the importance of evidence-based policies in promoting peace and inclusion.


  • Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 10: Reduced Inequality), which calls for inclusive research and data that highlight disparities affecting refugees.


  • United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) Guidelines on International Protection, which provide a framework for research that supports refugee rights and protection.

A Vision for Evidence-Based Refugee Policy


At RefPIC, our vision is to generate research that drives meaningful change for refugees and displaced persons. By producing rigorous, data-driven insights, we seek to influence policy reforms, enhance program effectiveness, and ensure that refugees receive the support they need. Our research initiatives focus on creating solutions that promote integration, protection, and long-term sustainability for refugees, ensuring their full participation in society.


Through our research, we aim to:


  • Provide evidence-based recommendations for policy development.


  • Identify challenges and gaps in services for refugees.


  • Support the development of innovative programs that respond to the needs of displaced populations.


How We Deliver This Vision: Comprehensive Research Programs


RefPIC’s approach to research involves close collaboration with governments, academic institutions, NGOs, and refugee communities to gather comprehensive data and insights. We use both qualitative and quantitative research methods to ensure a deep understanding of refugee experiences and challenges.


Key components of our research initiatives include:


  • Field Studies and Data Collection: Conducting in-depth field research in refugee camps, host communities, and resettlement areas to gather firsthand information on the challenges faced by refugees.


  • Policy Analysis and Recommendations: Analyzing existing policies and proposing reforms based on research findings to improve refugee protection, access to services, and social integration.


  • Collaboration with Academic Institutions: Partnering with universities and research institutions to produce peer-reviewed studies that inform refugee policies and advocacy efforts.


  • Data Sharing and Open Access: Making research data available to policymakers, practitioners, and the public to support evidence-based decision-making and program development.


Why Research on Refugee Issues Matters


Research is crucial in shaping policies and programs that effectively address the needs of refugees and displaced persons. Without reliable data and thorough analysis, it is impossible to create informed, sustainable solutions.


RefPIC’s research helps stakeholders understand the complex issues surrounding displacement, such as barriers to integration, mental health challenges, economic inclusion, and access to education. Our research also provides valuable insights into the contributions that refugees make to host communities, helping to shift public perceptions and reduce stigma.


Research ensures that refugee voices are heard and that their experiences inform policies designed to improve their lives. Evidence-based insights are essential for creating long-term solutions that not only protect refugees but also empower them to thrive in their new environments.


Looking Ahead: Expanding Research on Refugee Issues


As global displacement continues to rise, RefPIC is committed to expanding its research efforts. Our future research will focus on areas such as climate-induced displacement, gender-based challenges, and the role of technology in refugee integration. By generating actionable insights, we aim to influence global refugee policies and create more effective programs that address the evolving needs of displaced populations.


What We Aim to Achieve


Our primary research goals include:


  • Informing Policy Development: Provide data and analysis that shape effective policies and legislative reforms to protect refugee rights and support integration.


  • Improving Service Delivery: Use research findings to identify gaps in services and propose solutions that enhance refugee access to healthcare, education, employment, and legal protection.


  • Advocating for Refugee Rights: Generate evidence-based advocacy efforts that amplify refugee voices and promote human rights at the national and international levels.


  • Understanding Emerging Issues: Focus on emerging trends such as climate-induced displacement, mental health, and the role of technology in supporting refugees.


How We Deliver Impact


  • Field Studies and Surveys: Conducting on-the-ground research to understand the needs and experiences of refugees in various contexts.


  • Collaborative Research: Partnering with academic institutions and policymakers to ensure that research findings are practical, applicable, and relevant to policy discussions.


  • Policy Recommendations: Translating research into actionable policy recommendations that inform legislative reforms and program development.


  • Public Awareness: Sharing research findings with the public to raise awareness and shift perceptions of refugee issues, fostering more inclusive and supportive communities.


Who Benefits


  • Refugees and Displaced Persons: Benefit from more informed, effective policies and services designed to meet their needs.


  • Governments and Policymakers: Use data and research insights to craft refugee policies that are grounded in evidence and best practices.


  • NGOs and Civil Society Organizations: Rely on research findings to improve program design and implementation, ensuring that services are responsive to the needs of refugees.


Governance, Oversight, and Accountability


At Refugee Pathways & Integration Canada (RefPIC), we uphold the highest standards of governance, oversight, and accountability across all our programs. As a registered nonprofit, we operate in full compliance with the Canada Not-for-Profit Corporations Act and adhere to guidelines set by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for charities. This ensures transparency, accountability, and alignment with national laws.


In addition to federal compliance, RefPIC adheres to provincial nonprofit regulations where we operate, both within Canada and internationally. Where necessary, we incorporate separately in different jurisdictions to ensure we meet local legal requirements. This enables us to operate effectively across regions while maintaining the highest levels of accountability and legal compliance.


  • National and Provincial Compliance: RefPIC strictly follows Canadian laws governing nonprofit organizations, ensuring transparency, financial accountability, and ethical standards. By complying with federal and provincial nonprofit regulations, we meet all legal requirements in the regions we serve.

  • International Standards and Frameworks: RefPIC's work is further guided by international laws and frameworks that protect refugee rights and promote sustainable development. We align our programs with global best practices to ensure our initiatives serve refugees and displaced persons effectively.

  • Strong Accountability Practices: We collaborate with local, national, and international stakeholders to ensure responsible resource management and effective service delivery. Through regular evaluations, transparent reporting, and continuous improvement, RefPIC ensures that our programs meet the immediate needs of refugees while contributing to long-term sustainable outcomes.


For more details, visit our Governance, Oversight, and Accountability page to learn more about our commitment to ethical practices, program evaluation, and compliance with legal frameworks.


Get Involved/Call to Action


  • Support Refugee Research: Advocate for research that provides evidence-based insights to improve refugee services and policies.


  • Volunteer: Join RefPIC as a research volunteer, helping to collect data and analyze refugee-related trends and issues.


  • Partner with Us: Collaborate with RefPIC on research projects that advance refugee rights and well-being.


  • Donate: Your contributions support critical research that informs refugee policies and programs, ensuring refugees receive the support they need.









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