The Refugee Studies Centre
Exploring the complexities of displacement and advocating for the marginalized through rigorous academic inquiry at the University of Oxford.
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Overview
Establishment and Affiliation
The Refugee Studies Centre (RSC) was established in 1982 as an integral part of the University of Oxford's Department of International Development, formerly located at Queen Elizabeth House. This strategic positioning underscores its commitment to interdisciplinary engagement with global development challenges.
Core Mission and Philosophy
The RSC is dedicated to advancing the scholarly understanding of the causes and consequences of forced migration. Its foundational philosophy is to "combine world-class academic research with a commitment to improving the lives and situations for some of the world's most disadvantaged people." This dual focus drives its research agenda and outreach activities.
Global Recognition and Impact
Regarded as a leading global institution, the RSC is at the forefront of multidisciplinary research and teaching concerning forced migration. Its influence is amplified through an extensive network connecting it with universities, research bodies, governmental organizations, international agencies, NGOs, and businesses worldwide.
Prestigious Accolades
In recognition of its pioneering research and innovative educational programs, the RSC was honored with the Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education in 2002. This award highlights its significant contributions to both academic knowledge and practical application in the field.
Location
The Centre is situated at 3 Mansfield Road in Oxford, England, within the esteemed academic environment of the Oxford Department of International Development.
Research Focus
Contextual Dimensions
A significant area of research investigates the complex political, economic, and social contexts that shape and drive forced migration. Understanding these macro-level factors is crucial for developing effective policy responses.
Lived Experiences of Displacement
Employing primarily anthropological, psychosocial, and sociological methodologies, this research stream delves into the lived realities, experiences, and coping mechanisms of displaced populations. It prioritizes understanding these phenomena from the perspective of those affected.
Legal and Policy Frameworks
This area focuses on the critical legal and political dimensions of forced migration, examining the development, implementation, and impact of national and international laws and policies governing the rights and protection of forced migrants.
Multidisciplinary Approach
The RSC's research is inherently multidisciplinary, drawing expertise from fields such as law, international relations, anthropology, politics, history, economics, and geography to provide comprehensive analyses of forced migration phenomena.
Academic Programs
MSc in Refugee and Forced Migration Studies
This postgraduate course offers a rigorous academic framework, situating forced migration within historical, global, and human contexts. It encourages critical reflection on international and national responses to both internal and international displacement, preparing students for advanced engagement with the field.
International Summer School
A highly regarded two-week program designed for practitioners, policymakers, and academics actively involved in assisting refugees and internally displaced persons. It provides intensive training and networking opportunities.
Specialized Short Courses
The RSC offers targeted short courses that allow participants to acquire specialized professional training and deepen their expertise in specific areas related to refugee studies and forced migration.
Visiting Fellowships
These fellowships provide a unique opportunity for senior practitioners, policymakers, postgraduate students, postdoctoral scholars, and established academics to conduct self-directed study within a supportive academic environment, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Dissemination and Engagement
Forced Migration Review (FMR)
Widely recognized within the humanitarian sector, FMR is the world's most extensively read journal on international refugee, statelessness, and displacement issues. Published in multiple languages and distributed freely, it reaches a global audience, particularly in the Global South.
Forced Migration Online (FMO)
FMO serves as a comprehensive web-based portal offering a vast array of resources concerning forced migrants worldwide. Its objective is to provide equitable access to information and promote greater awareness of displacement issues among an international user base.
RSC Publications
Beyond external scholarly contributions, the RSC produces its own influential publications, including the Research in Brief series, a Working Paper Series, and sponsors key academic journals and book series such as the Journal of Refugee Studies, the Oxford Monitor of Forced Migration, and the Studies in Forced Migration book series.
Library and Documentation
The RSC's library and documentation centre houses an extensive collection of over 39,000 bibliographic records, encompassing published and unpublished materials and research archives related to forced displacement. This invaluable resource is integrated into the Bodleian Social Science Library.
Events and Partnerships
The Centre actively organizes public seminars, annual lectures, and events that respond to emerging research agendas and policy needs. It fosters institutional links and collaborative partnerships with agencies and academic centers globally, particularly in the Global South, to enhance research and practice.
Notable Academics
Leadership and Contributions
The Refugee Studies Centre has been shaped by distinguished academics who have led its mission and research endeavors. Key figures include:
- Dr Barbara Harrell-Bond OBE, Founder and Director (1982โ1996)
- Emeritus Reader David Turton, Director (1997โ2001)
- Professor Stephen Castles, Director (2001โ2006)
- Emeritus Professor Roger Zetter, Director (2006โ2011)
- Emerita Professor Dawn Chatty, Director (2011โ2014)
- Professor Alexander Betts, Director (2014โ2017)
- Professor Matthew Gibney, Director (2017โPresent)
Their leadership has been instrumental in establishing the RSC's reputation and advancing the field of forced migration studies.
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References
References
- Department of International Development, University of Oxford, UK.
- Refugee Studies Centre, University of Oxford, UK.
- Refugee Studies Centre, University of Oxford, UK.
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended solely for informational and educational purposes. The content is derived from a snapshot of publicly available data and may not represent the most current or exhaustive information available.
This is not professional academic or policy advice. The information provided herein is not a substitute for consultation with qualified experts in refugee studies, international relations, or policy-making. Always refer to official publications and consult with specialists for specific guidance.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any inaccuracies or omissions, nor for any actions taken based on the information presented.