Forced Migration Research Network

About us

Today, one in seven people are on the move. For some, this is a choice, but for others, the displacement is forced due to conflict, discrimination, persecution, extreme poverty or environmental disasters. Mobility is a pathway for many in search of safety or better opportunities, but it also involves many risks. Given the multifaceted nature of human mobility and displacement, a multidisciplinary and multi-sectoral approach to research that engages with this phenomenon is required.

In recognition of this increasingly complex area, and the breadth of interdisciplinary work being undertaken at UNSW School of Social Sciences, the Forced Migration Research Network was initiated by scholars Associate Professor Claudia Tazreiter, Dr Linda Bartolomei, Dr Caroline Lenette and Dr Susanne Schmeidl.

The Network draws together other researchers from history, philosophy, media and film studies, cultural studies, education and social psychology. These researchers produce highly original research on various aspects of human mobility.

Objectives

This wider Forced Migration Research Network aims to foster deeper collaboration across the Research Areas and Faculty. The Network aims to showcase the diversity of innovative work undertaken by UNSW and to leverage such collaboration in future research and funding opportunities.

We look to identify ways in which both the Network and UNSW can support refugees and forced migrants, who are also research co-collaborators. This work will build on and extend all existing industry and academic partnership.

Engagement

Meaningful engagement with refugee communities and building strong partnerships with organisations in the refugee sector is central to the work of the Forced Migration Research Network. This engagement takes several forms and includes research partnerships, community education, training, consultations and advocacy.

Network members partner with government, UNHCR, NGOs, settlement service providers and refugee community groups to undertake research, training and advocacy. These activities inform policy and practice responses to asylum seekers and refugees.