Research, Policy, and Advocacy
Introduction/Overview
Research, Policy, and Advocacy are key components of Refugee Pathways & Integration Canada (RefPIC)’s mission to support refugees and displaced persons. These efforts involve conducting and disseminating research on refugee and displacement issues, advocating for policies that protect refugee rights, and engaging in public awareness campaigns to foster understanding and drive change. By collaborating with academic institutions, policymakers, and civil society organizations, RefPIC works to create impactful policies and raise public consciousness about the challenges and needs of refugee communities.
Our research informs the development of data-driven policies that promote justice, equity, and inclusion for refugees. Through advocacy, we aim to influence decision-makers, promote legislative reform, and ensure that refugee voices are heard. Public awareness campaigns further our mission by educating communities, dispelling myths, and building support for refugee integration and protection.
This approach aligns with several global frameworks:
Global Compact on Refugees (2018): Focuses on the importance of data collection, policy development, and advocacy to support refugees.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions): Promotes the protection of human rights, access to justice, and the creation of inclusive societies.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 10: Reduced Inequality): Aims to reduce inequality within and among countries, ensuring no one is left behind, including refugees and displaced persons.
A Vision for Research, Policy, and Advocacy for Refugees
At RefPIC, we envision a world where research and evidence-based policies drive meaningful change in refugee protection and integration. Our goal is to create a society where the rights and well-being of refugees are prioritized and protected through informed policy development, targeted advocacy, and widespread public awareness. We believe that by producing rigorous research, advocating for legislative reforms, and fostering public understanding, we can improve the lives of refugees and strengthen the communities that host them.
Our approach is rooted in collaboration with stakeholders across sectors, ensuring that our research, policy initiatives, and advocacy efforts are inclusive, impactful, and aligned with the needs of refugees and displaced persons.
How We Deliver This Vision: Comprehensive Research, Policy, and Advocacy Programs
RefPIC’s Research, Policy, and Advocacy programs are designed to shape the refugee policy landscape, influence public discourse, and promote legislative reforms that protect refugee rights. We work in partnership with academic institutions, government bodies, and civil society organizations to ensure that our advocacy is informed by data, research, and the lived experiences of refugees.
Key components of our Research, Policy, and Advocacy initiatives include:
Research on Refugee and Displacement Issues: We conduct comprehensive research on the causes, impacts, and solutions to refugee displacement, providing evidence to inform policy development and advocacy.
Policy Development: RefPIC collaborates with policymakers to develop and advocate for laws and policies that protect refugees and promote their integration. Our work focuses on legislative reforms that promote access to education, employment, housing, and legal protection.
Advocacy and Legislative Reform: We advocate for refugee rights through direct engagement with lawmakers, public officials, and international organizations, pushing for policy changes that ensure refugees are treated with dignity and respect.
Data Collection and Analysis: We collect, analyze, and disseminate data on refugee needs and outcomes to inform evidence-based policy decisions. This data helps shape targeted interventions and advocacy campaigns.
Public Awareness Campaigns: RefPIC runs public awareness campaigns to educate the public on refugee issues, dispel misconceptions, and promote positive attitudes toward refugees and displaced persons.
Why Research, Policy, and Advocacy Matter
Research, policy development, and advocacy are essential for creating long-term solutions to the challenges faced by refugees. Without strong evidence-based policies, refugees may face discrimination, exclusion, and limited access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and legal protection. Through research, we identify key barriers and develop targeted strategies to address them. Advocacy ensures that these strategies are translated into policy reforms that benefit refugees and promote social justice.
Public awareness is equally critical to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for refugees. When communities are informed about the realities of refugee displacement and integration, they are more likely to support inclusive policies and welcome refugees into their societies. By educating the public, RefPIC helps build the social and political will needed to drive change.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Research, Policy, and Advocacy Efforts
As global displacement continues to rise, RefPIC is committed to expanding its research, policy, and advocacy initiatives to address the evolving needs of refugees and displaced persons. We plan to deepen our partnerships with academic institutions, policymakers, and international organizations to enhance our research capabilities and expand our advocacy efforts.
By increasing our data collection and analysis capacity, we aim to provide more detailed insights into refugee challenges and solutions, informing policies that promote inclusion, equity, and justice. Additionally, our future public awareness campaigns will focus on countering misinformation and promoting positive narratives around refugee integration and contributions to society.
What We Aim to Achieve
Our primary goals in research, policy, and advocacy for refugees include:
Conducting Rigorous Research: Generate data and evidence to inform policies that protect refugee rights and support their integration into host communities.
Promoting Legislative Reform: Advocate for policy changes that ensure refugees have access to education, healthcare, employment, and legal protections.
Raising Public Awareness: Engage in public education campaigns that foster understanding, counter stigma, and promote the inclusion of refugees.
Influencing Policy Development: Work with governments and policymakers to create laws that reflect the needs and rights of refugees, promoting justice and equality.
Enhancing Data Collection and Analysis: Collect and analyze data to provide accurate, evidence-based insights that drive effective policy solutions.
How We Deliver Impact
Research on Refugee Issues: RefPIC conducts research on refugee challenges, including displacement causes, integration barriers, and solutions, providing the foundation for evidence-based policy recommendations.
Policy Advocacy and Reform: We work with lawmakers to develop policies that reflect the needs of refugees, promoting justice, access to services, and equal opportunities.
Data-Driven Solutions: By collecting and analyzing data on refugee outcomes, we ensure that our policy recommendations are targeted, effective, and based on real-world evidence.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Our campaigns raise awareness about refugee rights, promote positive narratives, and build community support for refugee integration.
Who Benefits
Refugees and Displaced Persons: Refugees benefit from policies that protect their rights, ensure access to services, and promote social and economic inclusion.
Policymakers and Governments: Governments and policymakers benefit from data-driven insights and research that help shape effective refugee policies and programs.
Host Communities: Host communities benefit from increased awareness and understanding of refugee issues, leading to more inclusive and supportive societies.
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 Research and Advocacy Efforts: Advocate for policies that protect refugee rights and promote research on refugee issues.
Volunteer: Join RefPIC in conducting research, engaging in advocacy, or participating in public awareness campaigns.
Partner with Us: Collaborate with RefPIC to advance refugee research, policy development, and advocacy efforts.
Donate: Your financial contributions help fund critical research, policy, and advocacy programs that improve the lives of refugees and displaced persons.
Useful Resources (External Links)
Research on Refugee and Displacement Issues: Refugee Studies Centre (RSC) Resources – The RSC at the University of Oxford provides access to a vast range of research on refugee and displacement issues, covering causes, impacts, and proposed solutions. Their publications support evidence-based policy and advocacy. Access RSC resources
Policy DevelopmentUNHCR Policy Development and Evaluation Service (PDES) – UNHCR’s PDES conducts research and policy analysis to guide and improve laws and policies affecting refugees. The PDES website provides access to policy papers and guidelines aimed at advancing refugee protection and integration. Access PDES resources
Advocacy and Legislative Reform: Refugees International Advocacy Reports – Refugees International publishes advocacy reports that highlight refugee rights and call for policy changes. Their work focuses on legislative reforms in areas like legal protection, access to services, and safe integration. Access advocacy reports
Data Collection and Analysis: UNHCR Refugee Data Finder – This comprehensive data tool provides statistics and analysis on refugee demographics, needs, and outcomes worldwide. Data from the Refugee Data Finder is instrumental in informing evidence-based policies and targeted interventions. Access the Refugee Data Finder
Public Awareness Campaigns: Amnesty International’s Refugee Rights Campaigns – Amnesty International runs global campaigns to raise awareness about refugee rights and advocate for the humane treatment of displaced individuals. Their campaigns include educational resources and tools for public engagement. Access Amnesty’s campaigns