New Year’s message from APRRN’s Co-Secretaries General, Klaus and Hafsar:

Dear Members and Partners: 

We hope that you were able to have a break during the festive season, and have had a good start to 2024.

We have begun the new year with renewed energy and are determined to work towards making APRRN even more impactful in our collective efforts to protect and promote the human rights of refugees and other people on the move in need of protection in our region. There continues to be numerous and more solid barriers, as the human rights situation is deteriorating rapidly in many parts of our region. But we also witness glimmers of hope and emerging and good practices, something we hope to highlight more this year.

We will shortly share an outcome report of the 9^th Asia Pacific Consultation of Refugee Rights (APCRR9) during which our 2023-2027 APPRN strategy was endorsed, and advocacy priorities decided for the next two years. With our Secretariat Staff,  Consultants and Chair and Deputy Chair, we have begun to work on making the strategy concrete. We are  in the initial stages of developing an operational plan (OP), in collaboration with the Working Groups and teams and the wider Steering Committee. 

To also help us drive this process, we are working with our Learning Lead, Emma as well as Alice Johnson, our new Organisational and Leadership Coach. As we progress, we are all ensuring that APPRN’s concrete commitment to facilitate more, and more diverse, intentional and meaningful refugee participation throughout our network and beyond, remains at the centre.

We look forward to having – for all of us - a solid plan in place, which will also contain concrete Monitoring and Evaluation tools. If you have any questions on the development of the OP, please do not hesitate to contact either of, or both of us. 

With kind regards, 

Hafsar and Klaus

APRRN JOINT STATEMENT: URGENT APPEAL ON THE SITUATION OF MYANMARESE REFUGEES IN INDIA

India has become an increasingly important destination for refugees fleeing Myanmar since the 2021 coup d’état. While the Indian government has condemned the violence, it has simultaneously ordered several frontline states to identify “illegal immigrants” with a view to deporting them. As states expand their detention systems there are increasing reports about mistreatment in custody, paltry detention conditions, and pushbacks along the border.

In an urgent appeal, the Global Detention Project (GDP) and the Asia Pacific Refugee Rights Network (APRRN), in collaboration with civil society partners in India, have called on the Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar, Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, Subcommittee on the Prevention of Torture, Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Migrants, and Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues, to immediately address this situation. Read More Here

Members Spotlight!

Established in 2013 by former UN lawyers, this women-led organisation, previously known as Ara Legal Initiative and now named MAP, is committed to instigating systemic change in India's approach to migration and displacement. With an all-women management, MAP operates a dedicated law center focusing on the study of migration and refugee movements. In the context of India, a significant hub of migration in South Asia hosting millions of internal migrants, refugees, and internally displaced persons, particularly women, and children, MAP aims to end the marginalisation of these communities by facilitating their access to mainstream legal systems. Founded by Roshni Shanker, who recognised the importance of legal assistance in post-displacement recovery during her tenure with UNHCR, MAP adopts innovative strategies to address migrants' vulnerabilities and lack of agency concerning their legal status. In 2023, MAP celebrated its 10th anniversary with MAP@10, an event that brought together supporters, civil society partners, and community members for an evening of reflection and celebration featuring refugee artists. Visit MAP's Website

ACTIONS AND NEWS FROM MEMBERS
 

Workshop #2 - Recruiting, Hiring and Onboarding People of Forced Displacement

Watch the second workshop of the "Building Organisational Pathways Towards Meaningful Participation and Refugee Leadership" series by Cohere, accessible via the YouTube link. 

This workshop delves into "Recruiting, Hiring, and Onboarding People of Forced Displacement," exploring the value and methodologies of recruiting individuals from forced displacement situations. Participants will tackle common challenges such as legal concerns and inclusion barriers while questioning the adequacy of advisory boards. The panel features experts, including Christopher Eades, Hafsar Tameesuddin, and Adior Ibrahim moderated by Diana Essex-Lettieri. Watch the Workshop Here

What Is Article 14 of the Rome Statute? And Why Is It Important for Myanmar?

In commemoration of the third anniversary of the Myanmar coup, John Quinley III, Director at Fortify Rights, expressed grave concerns about the ongoing atrocities committed by Senior General Min Aung Hlaing and the military junta. Quinley stated that the junta is engaged in war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide with impunity. Since the coup, the military has been responsible for the killing of civilians, destruction of villages and religious structures, and arbitrary arrests of activists, journalists, and politicians. Quinley urged the international community to take decisive action, emphasising that ICC member states should utilise Article 14 to refer the situation in Myanmar to the Prosecutor for investigation. Fortify Rights has extensively documented the junta's crimes against various communities and the Rohingya people since February 1, 2021. The National Unity of Government (NUG) representing Myanmar's democratically-elected leaders, has submitted a 12(3) declaration to the ICC, allowing member states to make Article 14 referrals for a comprehensive investigation into the atrocities in Myanmar. Watch and Learn Here

Ensure All Refugees Have Access to Screening Mechanism, Appeals Process

Fortify Rights has urged Thai authorities to promptly guarantee access to the recently launched National Screening Nmechanism (NSM) and an adequate appeals process for all refugees in Thailand. The Royal Thai Police (RTP) and seven government agencies reportedly dismissed recommendations by the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand (NHRCT) to align the NSM with international human rights standards. Although initiated in September 2023, the NSM's design flaws prompted concerns, including exclusions, short appeal timeframes, and imbalances in the NSM expert committee. Fortify Rights, other organisations, and the NHRCT advocated for improvements, emphasising protection for NSM applicants. While not party to the 1951 Refugee Convention, Thailand incorporates non-refoulement principles in its domestic law. The country hosts numerous Myanmar refugees, and refugees from other countries, and Fortify Rights calls for the implementation of NHRCT's recommendations to align the NSM with international standards. Read More Here

Suaka Talk - Episode #3 

The SUAKA Talk Series Episode #3 is focusing on the issue of refugees, inclusion and role of youth refugees from a youth perspective in Indonesia. The speakers include Mahdi Rafei from Refugee Learning Nest and Fikha Adelia from Refuture, with Oka Putranata as the moderator. The SUAKA Talk Series Episode #3 delves into the opportunities for refugee youth and their current efforts to improve the lives of refugee communities in Indonesia.  Watch the Talk Here

Indiscriminate Bombardment In Rohingya Civilian Areas In Buthidaung Township, Myanmar

ROHRIngya strongly condemns recent indiscriminate attacks on Rohingya civilians in Buthidaung Township, Myanmar. Since 25 January, at least 20 innocent Rohingya civilians have been killed, and 104 others severely injured in indiscriminate bombardment during the conflict between the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army (AA). The attacks persist, causing destruction and worsening the humanitarian situation. ROHRIngya calls for an immediate cessation of all attacks, urges AA to refrain from occupying civilian areas, and demands the Myanmar military comply with international laws to protect civilians. Authorities must allow humanitarian aid and lift the internet shutdown. The international community is urged to investigate recent war crimes against Rohingya civilians. Read More Here

Watch an overview of 3 years of the failing coup in Burma/Myanmar in a video by: Altsean Burma Watch the Video Here

2023 was a big year for The Sisterhood.

The Sisterhood marked significant milestones in 2023, achieving registered organisation status, reopening the community center after a three-year pandemic-induced closure, commemorating a successful 5-year anniversary, and actively engaging over 400 members in livelihood activities, advocacy, and initiatives promoting awareness of women's rights. Explore the details of Sisterhood’s impactful endeavours and the journey undertaken in the comprehensive Impact Report for 2023. Read More Here

Alternatives to Immigration Detention in Contexts with Transit Migration

This briefing paper was written by the International Detention Coalition to provide an overview of practical examples and recent developments in the field of alternatives to detention (ATD) in contexts with transit migration, to highlight promising practices and encourage further progress in this area. It aims to inspire and embolden governments, local authorities, international organisations, civil society and community actors and other stakeholders, with steps they can take to move away from the use of immigration detention. Read More Here

News from the region

Human Rights Watch launched its annual report. The World Report 2024 examines the human rights situation in nearly 100 countries over the last year. Read More Here

Afghanistan

A new cohort of 188 Afghan individuals has been transported to Germany from Pakistan as part of special admission initiatives, with numerous individuals awaiting relocation. The German foreign office disclosed the news, revealing that the group, consisting of both men and women, departed from Islamabad on a charter flight on January 25. This group is comprised of individuals approved for admission under the Federal Admission Program and the relocation program for former local government and military employees. These initiatives were instituted by the German government in response to the Taliban's takeover after the withdrawal of international troops in August 2021. This follows a prior group of 188 Afghans who relocated from Pakistan to Germany in December. Approximately 3,000 Afghans in Pakistan have been offered admission, with the total number earmarked for relocation to Germany surpassing 11,000, encompassing individuals in Iran and those still in Afghanistan. Read More Here

UN experts have expressed deep concern over reports of arbitrary detention and ill-treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan for allegedly violating the Taliban's dress code. The experts urged the Taliban to cease arbitrary deprivation of liberty based on the imposed dress code, calling for the immediate release of any detained women and girls. Operations enforcing the dress code began in early January, targeting areas in Kabul and other provinces. Women were accused of wearing a "bad hijab," forcibly taken into police vehicles, and held incommunicado. The experts highlighted violations of human rights, urging compliance with international obligations and accountability for discriminatory actions. Read More Here

Pakistan’s Supreme Court heard arguments 1 December 2023 on a petition to halt the country’s removal of Afghan refugees. The petition was signed by a group of human rights activists, lawyers and politicians in November following the government’s October 3 decision to deport undocumented Afghan migrants back to Afghanistan contending that the interim government did not have the mandate to deport illegal Afghan citizens.

Justice Ayesha Malik, a Pakistani jurist, highlighted the country’s obligation as a signatory to UN conventions aimed at protecting refugees. The comments were made in response to a legal challenge against the Pakistan caretaker government’s decision to deport undocumented Afghan nationals.

On 3rd December 2023, the Peshawar High Court (PHC) approved the applications of 109 Afghan nationals married to Pakistanis while ordering the issuance of Pakistan Origin Cards (POC) for them. Although POC holders are excluded from obtaining a Pakistani passport or participating in elections, they enjoy other rights accorded to Pakistani citizens, allowing them to enter or exit Pakistan without a visa.

The government of Pakistan has extended the validity of Proof of Registration (PoR) cards until 31 March 2024 for those Afghans already in possession of the POR card in Pakistan.

APRRN continues to update the APRRN Information on the Afghanistan website in both Dari and English with news on visa pathways, education and employment opportunities, and migrant news relevant to Afghans in transit.  Please share with those who may find the resources useful. 

Indonesia:

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called on Indonesian authorities to halt the pushback of boats carrying Rohingya refugees immediately and to investigate and prevent assaults on refugees. The organisation urged the authorities to allow refugees to disembark in the nearest safe port, provide protection, and humanitarian assistance, and investigate online incitement of violence against them. The statement comes in response to the assault on Rohingya refugees in Banda Aceh, where students verbally and physically attacked refugees, demanding their deportation. HRW emphasises the urgency of bringing Rohingya boat refugees ashore, ensuring their protection, and addressing the online campaign inciting violence against them. UNHCR reported 11 Rohingya boats landing since November, with over 1,700 refugees, mainly women and children, arriving in Aceh and North Sumatra. The article underscores the need for regional cooperation to respond to boats carrying Rohingya refugees and emphasises the challenges faced by the Rohingya population due to persecution, violence, and restrictions. Read More Here

Check out Al Jazeera's recent video report highlighting the arrival of 1,700 Rohingya refugees in Aceh since November. The video provides insights into the circumstances and challenges faced by the Rohingya population, shedding light on their journey and the humanitarian situation in the region. Watch the Report Here

The recent surge in Rohingya refugees undertaking perilous sea journeys to Indonesia is attributed to various factors, as reported by UNHCR. Drivers include ongoing instability in Myanmar, insufficient progress in addressing the root causes of Rohingya displacement, deteriorating conditions and security in Bangladeshi camps, active smuggling networks, and reduced sea journey costs. The hazardous voyages, often on unseaworthy vessels, have led to nearly 1,000 Rohingya deaths or disappearances at sea in 2022 and 2023. Refugees face severe challenges during the journey, including gender-based violence, abuse, malnutrition, exploitation, and extortion. Recent arrivals have reported deaths at sea, emphasising the desperation prompting their risky decision. Despite previous Indonesian rescue efforts, the latest Rohingya arrivals encounter unprecedented resistance, with some prevented from disembarking, others forced back to sea, and those who disembarked living in precarious conditions.  Read More Here

Three Rohingya refugees reportedly fled their shelter in Banda Aceh amid heightened tensions with locals. The refugees left the Balai Meuseuraya Aceh building, where over 120 refugees were housed. The refugees might have left for various reasons, including reuniting with their families. Authorities confiscated their mobile phones, making it difficult for them to communicate. This incident adds to a series of Rohingya refugees fleeing shelters in Aceh. Read More Here

Thailand: 

Thailand is Failing Refugee Children: This article discusses the challenges faced by refugee children along the Thailand-Myanmar border. Tens of thousands of displaced civilians seeking safety have crossed the border into Thailand due to the Myanmar military junta's violent crackdown. However, Thai authorities have reportedly pushed refugees, including children, back to conflict zones in Myanmar. The author highlights the trauma inflicted on children and the barriers they face in accessing education and assimilating into society. Thailand, as a signatory to the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child, is urged to uphold the rights of all children and take measures to protect refugee children. Read More Here

India:

Without a refugee law in place and a non-signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, India remains an uncertain and unprotected home for new waves of asylum seekers, particularly highlighted by the plight of stateless children born to Myanmar parents seeking refuge. leaving many asylum seekers in limbo. The article sheds light on the challenges faced by refugees, such as the lack of access to essential services, identity documents, and social protection schemes. The piece explores the historical context of how India used to welcome refugees and contrasts it to the current government's reluctance to sign international conventions. The upcoming 2024 election could see changes in asylum laws policies and practices, but the outlook remains uncertain. Read More Here

Rohingya refugees in India encounter significant obstacles in obtaining specialised healthcare, according to a recent investigation by IndiaSpend. While basic healthcare is accessible through UNHCR) cards and NGO support at government hospitals, accessing specialised or emergency care often requires out-of-pocket payments. Language barriers, low health-seeking behavior, and socio-economic circumstances further compound the challenges faced by Rohingya refugees. The lack of a uniform refugee policy in India and the absence of legislation contributes to their status as "illegal migrants," limiting their access to essential services, including social protection schemes. NGOs play a crucial role in providing health access and support to refugees, but a more comprehensive and inclusive policy is needed to address the healthcare needs of Rohingya refugees effectively. Read More Here

Rohingya refugees have filed a Public Interest Petition (PIL) against Facebook in the Delhi High Court, invoking Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. The PIL highlights the dissemination of violent hate remarks on Facebook targeting the Rohingya community in India based on their ethnicity and religion, leading to threats and violence. The petition argues that Facebook's failure to address hate speech, originating in India, poses a direct threat to the safety and rights of the Rohingya community. The Rohingya refugees, recognised by the UNHCR as a persecuted community, seek protection of their right to life. The petition aims to hold Facebook accountable for promoting divisive content against minorities and violating community standards, especially with impending elections fueling concerns of increased vitriolic posts. Read More Here  and Also Read Here

Myanmar: 

The report, titled "Nothing Called Freedom: A Decade of Detention for Rohingya in Myanmar's Rakhine State," outlines the harrowing experiences of Rohingya Muslims, particularly focusing on the events of June 2012. The violence in Sittwe led to the destruction of the Narzi quarter, displacing thousands of Rohingya. The subsequent policy decisions and actions by Myanmar officials confined the Rohingya population to camps, subjecting them to arbitrary detention and severe restrictions. The report highlights the systematic oppression, denial of basic rights, and squalid living conditions in the camps, emphasising crimes against humanity of apartheid, persecution, and imprisonment. The narrative spans a decade, underlining the lack of accountability for atrocities and the continued suffering of the Rohingya, trapped in a stateless purgatory. The recommendations call for a cohesive international response, urging concerned governments to recognise intersecting crises, implement a global arms embargo, refer crimes to the International Criminal Court, and strengthen sanctions to cut off military funding. The report emphasises the need for justice and accountability, encouraging support for legal actions against Myanmar under the Genocide Convention. Read More Here

Three years after the military coup in Myanmar, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, is urgently calling for increased global attention to the deteriorating human rights crisis in the country. Highlighting the escalating conflict between the military and armed opposition groups leading to mass displacement and civilian casualties, Türk emphasises the regime's indiscriminate use of aerial bombardments and artillery strikes. The verified death toll since October 2023 is over 554, with civilian casualties surpassing 1,600 in 2023 alone. Nearly 26,000 individuals have been arrested, and approximately 1,576 have died in military custody over the past three years. Türk underscores the military's focus on punishing civilians, violating international humanitarian law, and expresses particular concern for the Rohingya community in Rakhine state. Urging accountability, release of political prisoners, and the restoration of civilian rule, Türk calls for Member States to impose targeted sanctions on the military. Read More Here 

Bangladesh:

UNHCR expresses deep concern over a sharp increase in Rohingya deaths and disappearances at sea, particularly in the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal during 2023. Shocking statistics reveal that 569 Rohingya refugees lost their lives or went missing last year, marking a significant rise from previous years. The findings indicate a distressing trend, with survivors recounting instances of abuse and gender-based violence during these perilous sea journeys. The Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal have become one of the deadliest routes globally, with an alarming ratio of one Rohingya reported dead or missing for every eight attempting the journey in 2023. Notably, 66 percent of those embarking on these dangerous journeys were children and women. UNHCR urgently calls on coastal authorities to take immediate action to prevent further tragedies, emphasising the humanitarian imperative and adherence to international maritime law. The international community is urged to fulfil commitments made at the Global Refugee Forum, focusing on solutions and self-reliance to alleviate the desperation prompting such hazardous journeys. Read More Here

Malaysia:

Human Rights Watch in its World Report 2024, asserts that Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who assumed office in November 2022, has largely failed to fulfil promises to address repression and corruption. Despite positive steps such as  the Abolition of the Mandatory Death Penalty Act 2023, the government fell short on commitments to abolish or reform laws suppressing free speech. The government's denial of legal status to refugees persists, with UNCHR being denied access to immigration detention centres. State-sponsored discrimination against the LGBTQI community remains, with Anwar rejecting recognition and protection for LGBTQI people in  Malaysia. HRW urges the government to recommit to a rights-respecting agenda and implementation. Read More Here

Australia:

At the 2023 Global Refugee Forum in Geneva, the Australian Government demonstrated a substantial commitment by making 23 pledges and allocating AU$265 million in funding. The forum, attended by 4,200 participants from 170 countries and joined by 10,000 online, resulted in a total of 1,700 pledges for action over the next four years (2023-2027). Australia's pledges cover a broad spectrum, addressing issues related to resettlement, community sponsorship, refugee labour mobility, education, mental health, immigration detention, refugee participation, gender, refugee travel documents, statelessness, international cooperation, peacebuilding, and crises affecting Rohingya refugees, Afghanistan, and Sudan. Of note is Australia's increased focus on fostering refugee self-reliance, gender equality, and meaningful refugee participation. The total value of pledges made during the forum exceeded US$2.2 billion. This marked a significant expansion of Australia's commitment compared to the first Global Refugee Forum in 2019 when only three pledges were made. Additionally, Australia included a refugee advisor, Danijel Malbasa, as part of its official delegation, indicating a heightened emphasis on the inclusion of refugee perspectives. Read More Here

Statistics on people in detention in Australia: 

The Department of Home Affairs, previously known as the Department of Immigration and Border Protection, regularly releases statistics on individuals in detention in Australia. These figures, available monthly on their website, encompass the count of individuals held in detention facilities within the country as well as those in the community, either under a 'residence determination' or with a 'bridging visa'.  Read More Here

Statistics on refugees resettled in Australia:

The statistics on refugees resettled in Australia reveal the dynamics of visa applications and outcomes. People can apply for resettlement from overseas, often through the UNHCR. The graph illustrates the number of applicants seeking resettlement since 2015-16, categorised by the type of visa applied for. It is evident that while thousands apply annually, the number granted visas is significantly lower. The percentage of people granted visas remains a crucial metric, reflecting the selectivity of the resettlement process. Read More Here

As a child in a refugee camp in southern Bangladesh, Noor Kabir was inspired by the film "Rocky" and dreamt of becoming a bodybuilding champion. Growing up stateless as a Rohingya, Noor faced challenging living conditions in the camp, but the movie motivated him to strive for a better life. At the age of 16, he embarked on a dangerous journey by sea, eventually reaching Australia, where he started a new life. Despite initial language barriers, Noor worked odd jobs, learned English by watching movies, and pursued his passion for fitness. With the help of a coach, he entered bodybuilding competitions, winning the title of the world's first Rohingya bodybuilding champion. Noor aims to inspire others facing hardships and dreams of competing on the international stage, but he awaits the right to travel to make this dream a reality. Read More Here

International:

At the GRF2023, the United States addressed the challenges faced by refugees and host communities amid historic displacement. Making 26 commitments across eight multi-stakeholder pledges, the U.S. engaged in high-level action with global partners, emphasising the need for innovative responses and solutions to the refugee crisis. With global forced displacement exceeding 130 million people, the U.S. reaffirms its commitment to the Global Compact on Refugees. Pledges include expanding the Refugee Self-Reliance Initiative in Bangladesh, Colombia, and Kenya, supporting private sector engagement for economic inclusion, advocating for gender equality and protection against gender-based violence, and increasing global resettlement opportunities. The U.S. also commits to expanding private sponsorship, launching specialised programs for labor mobility and higher education, prioritising Rohingya resettlement, joining the Global Alliance to End Statelessness, and advocating for refugee-inclusive education globally. While these commitments are not legally binding, they underscore the U.S.'s dedication to addressing the urgent needs of displaced populations worldwide. Read More Here

UNITED KINGDOM

The reversal of the deportation of Tamil asylum seekers took place after two years of being held on the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) island of Diego Garcia. The BIOT Commissioner, Paul Candler, reversed the decision just days before the territory's supreme court was set to hear a challenge brought by 10 asylum seekers. The group, part of 61 asylum seekers held on the island, had faced deportation to Sri Lanka. Lawyers argued that the commissioner's screening process prevented asylum seekers from responding to evidence and highlighted serious translation errors. The commissioner has agreed to re-evaluate the evidence submitted by the asylum seekers. The asylum seekers, including Sri Lankan Tamils, have faced challenges, including mental health issues, during their years-long wait for a decision on their future. Read More Here

Two Sri Lankan asylum seekers who were transferred to Rwanda earlier this month after attempting suicide on the Indian Ocean island of Diego Garcia were approved by UK authorities on Thursday to receive asylum in a third country. UK authorities approved their asylum in a third country, and they will not be returned to Sri Lanka. The specific third country for resettlement has not been identified yet. The asylum seekers, part of a group held on Diego Garcia, had faced challenges, including rejection of their asylum claims and concerns about their mental health. Lawyers representing them are seeking a stay order to prevent their return to Diego Garcia. The asylum seekers' suicide attempts and the conditions on Diego Garcia have raised humanitarian concerns. Read More Here

Reports & Publications

Empowering Mental Health in the Asia-Pacific: Innovative Strategies and Advocacy for Refugees and Asylum Seekers

In November 2023, the Asia Displacement Solutions Platform (ADSP) and the Asia Pacific Refugee Rights Network (APRRN), with financial assistance from EU Humanitarian Aid (ECHO), co-hosted a dialogue session on the mental health of refugees – a pressing issue in Southeast Asia. This session emerged against a backdrop of ongoing human rights and humanitarian crises in the region, which have compelled numerous individuals and families to seek refuge away from their homes. The trauma associated with displacement is not just physical but deeply emotional and psychological, underscoring the need for accessible mental health support for refugees. Read More Here and Download the Report Here

The "Promoting Inclusion for Sustainable Solutions" UNHCR Regional Consultations with NGOs in Asia and the Pacific, held on September 14-15, 2023, marked a shift from the annual global consultations to a regional focus, bringing discussions closer to local realities. In collaboration with ICVA, APRRN, and APNOR, the event aimed to address challenges and identify opportunities for the 14.3 million forcibly displaced and stateless individuals in the region. The report presents a summary of the discussions and recommendations made during the two-day consultation, emphasising the pursuit of sustainable solutions and inclusive strategies. Read More Here and Download the Report Here

International panel to discuss trends in

resettlement and complementary pathways

In conjunction with the global Working Group on Resettlement meeting in Sydney, the Kaldor Centre and Refugee Council Of Australia are providing an opportunity for Australians to hear from leading international experts on resettlement and complementary migration pathways. Representatives of UNHCR, the Consultations on Resettlement and Complementary Pathways (CRCP) Refugee Advisory Group, and Pathways International will discuss developments in refugees’ access to resettlement, community sponsorship, labour migration, and education visas.

Attendance at this public event is free, but registration is necessary.

Date:             Tuesday, 27 February 2024 

Time:            17:30 - 20:00  

Location:      Gilbert + Tobin, International Towers Sydney

APRRN/Members’ Job Vacancies

Volunteer Legal Advocates (VLAs) - Job Vacancy

Asylum Access, an innovative Human Rights NGO based in Bangkok, Thailand, is seeking Volunteer Legal Advocates (VLAs) to join their Legal Services Team. Asylum Access focuses on supporting forcibly displaced individuals and communities in reclaiming their rights, agency, and power. The organisation employs a unique approach that combines legal empowerment, policy advocacy, and global systems change to create conditions for refugees to live safely, move freely, work legally, and attend school. The Legal Team, overseen by the Protection Program Coordinator, is responsible for providing legal services to refugees, ensuring access to justice, support during the refugee status determination process, and information on Long Term Legal Solutions. VLAs play a crucial role, in providing legal advice and support to refugees seeking asylum or asserting other legal rights. The position offers practical experience in legal representation, client interaction, research, and more. After the volunteer period, VLAs join a global network of refugee legal advocates. The expected time commitment is six months to one year, and the position is based in Bangkok, Thailand. Interested candidates can submit a cover letter and resume through AAT’s BambooHR application portal. 

Please note that VLA positions are unpaid, but a small stipend is provided to cover transportation and lunch expenses. AAT is committed to creating an inclusive environment and encourages individuals with lived displacement experiences to apply. For more information, please visit here.

Call for Proposals: IASFM20 – Forced Displacement in an Urbanizing World

The 20th International Association for the Study of Forced Migration Conference (IASFM20) will take place in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, from January 21 to 23, 2025, hosted by Resilience Development Initiative – Urban Refugees Research Group (RDI UREF) in collaboration with the Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia. The conference aims to explore the intersections of forced displacement, urbanization, and urban studies, emphasising spaces co-creating knowledge through research led by refugees, displaced persons, and migrants in urban settings. The Program Committee invites proposals from researchers, individuals with lived experiences related to migration, policy-makers, and practitioners on themes such as the global agenda for international migration, (re)conception of urban displacement and the right to the city, knowledge production on urban displacement, and a special focus on the Asia Pacific region. The conference will also feature pre-conference workshops for young researchers on January 20, 2025.  

International Online School in Forced Migration 2023 AND 2024

The RSC’s International Online School provides an intensive, interdisciplinary, and participative approach to the study of forced migration, allowing practitioners and others to critically reflect on the forces shaping the worlds of displaced people. Core modules cover conceptualising forced migration, the moral foundations of refugeehood, international law, refugee protection, and the politics of humanitarianism, supplemented by optional modules on various topics. The school is designed for policymakers and practitioners with experience in refugee protection and related issues and is unique in enabling participants worldwide to join without the need for travel. 

The fees range from £620 to £670 per Online School, covering access to the virtual learning environment, Canvas, learning materials, live classes, discussions, lectures, and extra-curricular events. Fully funded places are available for refugees and those with lived experience of forced displacement. 

Interested individuals can apply online and seek bursary places through the provided link, submitting additional documents such as CV, qualifications, and English language test scores. Applicants should have substantial experience in refugee-related work, a first degree, and English language proficiency.   

Call for contributions:

Special issue: Contemporary Readings on Migration and Displacement

"Hagar: International Social Science Review" is a globally recognised English-language peer-reviewed journal published by the Humphrey Institute for Social and Cultural Research at the Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Israel. Covering all subfields of social sciences and the social and cultural humanities, the journal, initiated in 2000, recently resumed publication after a nine-year hiatus. Managed by the Humphrey Institute's doctoral fellows, Hagar aims to establish social and cultural thought as a foundation for research across various fields and disciplines. The upcoming special issue focuses on Contemporary Readings on Migration and Displacement. In light of recent global events, including conflicts like the Ukrainian-Russian war, the Israeli-Hamas war, the Sudan civil war, and the Flight of Nagorno-Karabakh Armenians, alongside climate-related disasters, the issue seeks to re-examine migration and forced displacement terminology, identities, norms, and processes. Manuscripts, exploring questions related to dynamic borders, identities, representations, and processes within Migration Studies, are invited from all social and humanities disciplines. Submissions, adhering to the Harvard citation style and consisting of approximately 7000 words (including references), are accepted until April 1st, 2024. The co-editors for this special issue are Yael Gordon, Manya Kagan, and Shahar Livne. Submitted manuscripts will undergo a rolling review, with reviews expected to be provided to authors by June 2024, and the full issue is anticipated to be published in October 2024. 

Authors are encouraged to submit their work to hagarjournal@bgu.ac.il 

Culture & Mental Health International Conference

The forthcoming Culture & Mental Health international conference, scheduled for November 28 and 29, 2024, in Ghent, Belgium, aims to facilitate learning, discussion, and debate on cultural interventions geared towards enhancing the well-being of individuals recovering from mental health challenges or those in vulnerable situations. The primary focus of this edition is to explore methods of supporting the mental well-being of forcibly displaced individuals through art and culture. The deadline for submissions is March 30, 2024.   

Call for Application: UN Women Gender Youth Activists

UN Women Indonesia will select six national gender youth activists who will advise the UN Women Indonesia Country Office on mechanisms to meaningfully engage young people, supporting the amplification of youth voices, building the resources, networks, and capacity of youth gender activists, and becoming the next generation of gender equality advocates contributing to a stronger feminist movement.

When: Candidates will stay in the term for at least 1 year from the date of their selection.

Who: Be the age of between 17–30 years.

Proven track record of leading or working with young people on one of the thematic areas: Ending Violence Against Women, Women's Economic Empowerment, Governance, Peace, and Resilience, with demonstrable impact. Capacity and desire to contribute to the gender equality agenda at the national, regional, and international levels.

Willing to participate in virtual discussion on Beijing +25, Generation Equality Forum, Youth Task Force and Youth 2030, Commission on the Status of Women. Non-English speakers are also encouraged to apply.

How:  Apply here: http://bit.ly/AktivisMudaUNWomen2024 

Deadline: 19 February 2024, 09.00 AM (GMT +7)

Awards and Prizes

The UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award is an annual recognition that honors individuals, groups, or organisations displaying outstanding dedication to the protection and assistance of refugees, internally displaced persons, or stateless people. The nomination period for the 2024 UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award is open from January 24 to March 20, 2024. If you are aware of a deserving candidate, you can submit your nomination through the online form provided in the guide. For inquiries, you can contact the UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award team at nansen@unhcr.org      

Funding opportunities

ASEAN Foundation

Join the eMpowering Youths Across ASEAN Program Cohort 4_CSO/SE by submitting your applications. This collaborative initiative by the ASEAN Foundation and Maybank Foundation focuses on empowering youth and communities across Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. Implementing partners, including Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Social Enterprises (SEs), can benefit from the along with 10 allocated Youth Volunteers for a three-month social project. The program covers travel, accommodation, meals, and professional development activities related to the project. Eligible organizations are encouraged to apply, and the application timeline includes various phases from January to December 2024, subject to updates based on progress.

Amount: up to USD 27,000

Deadline: March 3, 2024

Strengthening Grants

Strengthening Grants are available to support advocacy efforts in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) for small to medium civil society organisations in our region in the countries of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Up to 40% of the grant can be allocated to organisational development. Eligible organisations must be registered in one of the AmplifyChange eligible countries, possess a bank account, and exhibit an average annual expenditure between GBP 250,000 and GBP 500,000 over the past two years. Emphasising collective actions for long-term, sustainable change, AmplifyChange prioritises projects addressing root causes of social norms, empowering marginalised groups, and contributing to policy development and implementation. The focus is on small to medium-sized organisations seeking growth, innovative approaches, and promising practices that align with broader movements for change.

Grant range:   up to GBP 200,000

Deadline:        15 Feb 2024

Human Mobility Initiative Fund

Oxfam has introduced the Human Mobility Initiative Fund (HMIF) as part of its Human Mobility Initiative, aimed at influencing global migration policies to ensure humane management and respect for human rights. The HMIF is now open for applications, with a focus on supporting migrants/refugees-led organisations and front-line migrants/refugees’ rights organisations. The call welcomes projects involving evidence-based research, data collection, analysis, or advocacy and campaigns related to migrants' and refugees' rights. The specific objectives include respecting migrants and refugees' rights, promoting their inclusion in policymaking, and reducing potential conflicts with hosting communities. This global call, open to all regions, prioritises countries with Oxfam operational offices and programs. Interested parties can find more details and submit applications through the provided website.

Grants Amount:  20,000 to 30,000 EUR. 

Deadline:              February 22, 2024

U.S. Embassy Bangkok 

The U.S. Embassy Bangkok Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations or individuals to submit a statement of interest (SOI) or concept note to carry out program(s) funded by the U.S. Embassy Bangkok.

Democracy, Governance, and Human Rights:

Activities that strengthen democratic values, accountability, public participation, transparency, and rule of law in governance and political institutions.

Innovative projects that educate Thais about the U.S. experience in meaningful participation in democratic processes and civic life.

Activities that promote universally recognized human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Activities that promote connection between the United States and the rising leaders in the Indo-Pacific region.

Activities that focus on enhancing critical thinking skills and promoting civic engagement to counter disinformation and improve media/digital literacy. 

1st Round – February 7, 2024

2nd Round – May 1, 2024

3rd Round – July 3, 2024

Amount: minimum of $10,000 to a maximum of $75,000

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL)

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces a Request for Statements of Interest (RSOI) from organizations interested in submitting Statements of Interest (SOI) for programs that promote human rights and democracy in Burma.

Project objectives include: 

1) Cross-border linkages are created connecting displaced civil society and advocacy networks, including ethnic and religious minority groups, to foster collective action among diverse communities to address post-coup challenges, 

2) CSOs and human rights defenders (HRDs) are empowered to identify, address, and/or advocate for solutions to community challenges and 

3) CSOs and human rights defenders can address barriers that prevent a peaceful and unified pro-democracy movement by building trust and fostering habits of inclusion between decision-makers in ethnic and religious majority and minority populations.

Amount:          between $500,000 and $1,480,000

Deadline:        11:59 PM EST on February 26th, 2024

Julia Taft Fund - Thailand

Each year, the Julia Taft Fund awards up to $25,000 per country to address gaps in refugee assistance by issuing grants to local nonprofit organisations for quick-impact, time-limited projects. Grants are intended to address one-time needs or interventions, and/or respond to needs not addressed by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), or other non-governmental organizations (NGOs) receiving U.S. government funding. The activities of the proposed project should not be directed to sustained, long-term programs. We encourage Community-based organisations (CBOs) and NGOs to submit proposals. Please note the beneficiaries of your proposed project must be at least 50 percent refugees, internally displaced persons, vulnerable migrants, and/or stateless persons.

Areas of Focus:

• Legal Assistance, Protection, or Education for Newly Displaced Persons:  including activities that provide time-bound assistance to refugees, asylum seekers, and/or vulnerable migrants newly displaced into Thailand.  We will not consider proposals that 1) focus on assistance in the nine refugee camps (i.e. temporary shelters for displaced persons) along the Thailand-Myanmar border, or 2) projects that duplicate the work or services provided by UNHCR, other UN agencies, or other U.S. Government assistance programs.
• Stateless Persons:  including activities aimed at resolving, reducing, or preventing statelessness and/or assisting stateless persons.  For example, efforts that strengthen local networks to resolve statelessness and assist stateless persons or increase the capacity of local communities to navigate the legal status application process.
• LGBTQI+ Persons:  including activities that provide innovative assistance, promote equal access to protection and assist with durable solutions for LGBTQI+ asylum seekers, refugees, vulnerable migrants, and/or stateless persons.  We will not consider proposals that are focused primarily on research or surveying needs.

Fund Range:      $5,000 to $25,000 

Deadline:           March 18, 2024

Julia TAFT Fund - Malaysia 

Deadline:           March 01, 2024

Julia TAFT Fund - Indonesia 

Deadline:           February 23, 2024

The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives – Cambodia, Laos, Thailand (2024)

Embassy of Canada to Thailand, in Bangkok is pleased to launch its annual call for proposals for the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI).

Program description

The CFLI is a program designed to support small-scale, high-impact projects in developing countries, which align with Global Affairs Canada’s thematic priority areas for engagement. The program is directed at projects conceived and designed predominantly by local partners. Projects are selected and approved by the relevant Canadian embassy or high commission. The CFLI also serves to support positive bilateral relations between Canada and recipient countries and their civil societies, by deepening contacts and supporting local endeavours.

The average CFLI contribution is 15,000 to 30,000 Canadian Dollars (CAD$100,000 is the maximum allocation amount for a project eligible under CFLI). Consult the currency converter for local currency equivalents. Please note that all contributions are made in Canadian dollars and then converted to the local currency.

How to apply

Stage 1: Concept notes

• Submit a concept note outlining the project purpose, main activities, and expected achievements, including contributions to improving gender equality, potential risks to the project, and mitigation plans.
• To obtain the Concept Note template or for questions about the application process, please contact the CFLI team at: BNGKK CFLI-FCIL@international.gc.ca
• The Concept Note should be submitted electronically to: BNGKK CFLI-FCIL@international.gc.ca
• The deadline for submission is Friday, March 1, 2024, at 23:59 (GMT+7). Applications submitted after this deadline will not be considered.

Stage 2: Application form

• Only the shortlisted applicants will be contacted in late April 2024 to complete a full application form with a detailed budget within a 2-week deadline.
• All projects must be completed between the date of signature of the Contribution Agreement and February 28, 2025.

General information

• Proposals must be completed in English or French.
• Only those proposals using the designated application form and including the required budget document will be considered.
• Successful applicants will normally have 6 to 8 months to implement the chosen project depending on when the Contribution Agreements are finalised.
• Project proposals must explicitly answer all questions in the CFLI project application form, including the required gender-based analysis. The proposed project budget should summarize the proposed activities and associated costs.
• Budgets should detail the proposed activities and associated costs. Applications must specify planned expenditure in local currency equivalent to Canadian dollars.
• The more detailed the budget, the easier it will be for the selection committee to assess.
• Applications will be assessed for approval on their merits by a selection committee.
• Due to the large number of proposals, only the successful candidates will be contacted via email.
• Project applications are kept on file at missions in accordance with Global Affairs Canada’s information management policies.

United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture (UNVFVT) 

Grants may only be awarded to organisations for projects that provide direct assistance to victims of torture and their family members. Such assistance may be in the form of medical, psychological, social, economic, legal, humanitarian, educational, or other forms of direct assistance. Examples of issues addressed by direct assistance projects include, inter alia, the following: victims of torture and intersecting discrimination, such as persons with disabilities, LGBTQI persons, and minorities; gender-based violence amounting to torture; denial of medical treatment or care, including in places of deprivation of liberty; excessive use of force amounting to torture, notably in the context of protests and social movements; attacks amounting to acts of torture against human rights defenders working under restrictive or retaliatory measures. The Fund welcomes any project proposal that is compliant with the Fund’s mandate and designed in line with the Fund’s Guidelines.

The Fund will also receive a small number of applications for capacity-building projects aimed at strengthening the development and/or capacity of individuals, organisations, or specialised networks (for example hospitals, professional associations, rehabilitation centres, etc.) to ensure specialised provision of direct assistance to torture survivors and their family members.

Grants Range:         US$ 30,000 to US$ 100,000.

Deadline:                 1 March 2024