An in-depth discussion on refugee resettlement, part of World in Westminster festival.
About the event
It's highly contentious topic in the media, but what is refugee resettlement all about? We invite you to go beyond the labels and listen to real stories of real people, and their journeys.
The event will showcase results from a project on supporting the social integration and sense of belonging on the part of Syrian refugees in UK society.
Refugee integration can be a traumatic experience, not least due to the profound and deep losses suffered by refugees prior to their arrival. Their resettlement therefore requires careful planning and attention to detail. We draw attention to the work of two organisations that support the integration of Syrian refugees and highlight some of the challenges they face in doing so. These same issues likely affect groups supporting the social integration of newly arriving Afghan and Ukrainian refugees, making it all the more imperative for policies and practices which can build cohesive societies. The event evidences university engagement with diversity, inclusion and internationalisation themes which underpin the World in Westminster festival.
In an ever ‘globalising’ world perpetuated by increased mobility, this event offers attendees an insight into the benefits of, as well as challenges in, building societies that support the wellbeing of all members, reduce exclusion and marginalisation and foster a sense of belonging and security, whatever the backgrounds and nationalities of its members.
Attending the event are:
- Simon Canter, Chair, Peckham Sponsors Refugees
- Sobia Razzaq, Co-Chair, Women of Westminster (WoW) Network, Senior Lecturer in Law, Area Convenor for Herts Welcomes Refugees
- researchers Dr Lilian Miles (Westminster University) and Dr Tim Freeman (Middlesex University), who conducted research into supporting Syrian refugee integration in London in July 2021
- Mariam Shabo, a student at Westminster University from a Syrian refugee background
- four Syrian refugee guest speakers from Herts Welcomes Refugees
Special thanks goes to Dr Maria Granados (Westminster University) and Christina Flora, Doctoral Student from the University of Westminster’s School of Humanities, who are also part of the research team.
Location
This event takes place at Fyvie Hall, 309 Regent Street, London, W1B 2HW.
