People are on the move in every part of the world. While many migrate in a safe and legal manner for the purpose of employment, education or family reunion, a growing number are compelled to leave their own countries as a result of conflict and climate change. Many have little choice but to embark on difficult, dangerous and irregular journeys.

While some communities and governments have reacted with generosity, many are failing to address the issue of human displacement in a coordinated and cooperative manner, and in some cases are flouting fundamental principles of international law. The refugee and migration issue has become a deeply divisive one, both within and between states.

Responding to this scenario, Chatham House and the Overseas Development Institute (ODI) will convene a Forum on Refugee and Migration Policy. The Forum’s purpose is to support the development of effective and equitable policies at the international, regional and national levels with respect to the cross-border movement of people who have been compelled to leave their homes as a result of serious threats to life, liberty or livelihood.

The Forum will act as a platform for dialogue between members of a diverse, international and high-level group of experts through a series of meetings over the next two years. It will include representatives from the humanitarian, development, security and foreign policy communities, as well as from foundations, civil society and the private sector.

Please note: The Forum is closed and operates under Chatham House rules.

Events

• May 2018: Livelihoods, employment and development: the economic dimensions of displacement and migration (summary below)
• February 2018: Responsibility sharing for large-scale population movements: are safe and legal pathways part of the solution? (summary)
• October 2017: Climate change, disasters and food insecurity as drivers of displacement (summary)
• February 2017: Changing public perceptions of refugees and migrants: the role of politicians, the media and civil society (summary below)
• November 2016: Opportunities and challenges in light of the UN Summit for Refugees and Migrants (summary)