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Refugees in the 21st Century

Professor David Cantor and Professor Sarah Singer

This MOOC provides insight into the refugee phenomenon as one of the most complex, compelling and (arguably) misunderstood features of the 21st century. Taking a global perspective, it will outline the fundamentals of who ‘refugees’ are, where they come from and where they go, as well as delving into the features of the global system for refugee protection and ‘solutions’ for those who have been forcibly displaced. It places the student at the centre of the learning experience through engagement with a range of robust and challenging activities, materials and online peer engagement.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Week one: Course Introduction and 'A world of refugees'
This MOOC provides insight into the refugee phenomenon as one of the most complex, compelling and (arguably) misunderstood features of the 21st century. Taking a global perspective, it will outline the fundamentals of who ‘refugees’ are, where they come from and where they go, as well as delving into the features of the global system for refugee protection and ‘solutions’ for those who have been forcibly displaced. It places the student at the centre of the learning experience through engagement with a range of robust and challenging activities, materials and online peer engagement. This course has been developed by the Refugee Law Initiative at the renowned School of Advanced Study of the University of London, one of the leading research institutions working on refugee protection and forced migration studies. Please review the Course Introduction video and activities and then proceed to our first weekly lesson: 'A world of refugees'.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Suitable for learners who are interested in the humanitarian assistance arena
Introduces learners to various policies and regulations regarding refugee assistance
Examines multiple perspectives on the refugee phenomenon, which is valuable for learners who seek to understand the complexities of the issue
Taught by instructors who are well-respected in the field of refugee studies, whose expertise enhances the learning experience
Includes a range of activities and materials that foster engagement and a deeper understanding of the subject matter
Learners should note that the course does not delve into specific case studies or provide hands-on experience with refugee assistance

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Reviews summary

Introduction to refugee studies and protection system

According to learners, this course serves as a comprehensive introduction to the complex phenomenon of refugees in the 21st century. Students highlight the course's relevance to current global events and its well-structured weekly modules that cover key topics like the definition of a refugee, the global protection system (UNHCR, 1951 Convention), durable solutions, and other forms of forced migration. While praised for providing a solid foundation for those new to the subject, some note that it might lack depth for learners with prior knowledge, positioning it primarily as an accessible starting point.
Material is academic, detailed, and credible.
"The lectures and readings were very academic and informative."
"Detailed information based on solid research from the University of London."
"High-quality academic content that provides depth on legal and systemic aspects."
Well-organized weekly structure.
"I really liked the week-by-week format, it made the material easy to digest."
"The structure flows logically from defining refugees to looking at solutions and other migrants."
"Modules were well-paced and broke down complex topics effectively."
Ideal starting point for newcomers.
"Great course if you're completely new to the subject of refugees and forced migration."
"It’s perfect for getting a foundational understanding before diving deeper."
"Accessible even without prior knowledge of international law or social sciences."
Highly relevant to current global events.
"The subject matter is incredibly relevant in today's world, helping me understand current crises."
"Helped me make sense of news about forced migration and asylum seekers."
"Timely and important insights into a pressing global issue."
Provides a solid introduction to the subject.
"This course gave me a great overview of the main aspects of refugee issues in the 21st century."
"An excellent introduction to the topic of refugees and the international system."
"Covers all the key concepts you need to understand the basics."
"I appreciated the comprehensive nature of the material presented."
May lack depth for advanced learners.
"If you already have some background in refugee studies, you might not find much new here."
"I felt it could have gone into more depth on certain complex legal or political issues."
"Mostly covers the surface; better for a general understanding than expert knowledge."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Refugees in the 21st Century with these activities:
Review Humanitarian Law Principles
Establish a solid foundation for understanding the legal and ethical principles that guide refugee protection and humanitarian assistance.
Browse courses on Humanitarian Law
Show steps
  • Review key concepts and principles of humanitarian law
  • Identify the main actors and institutions involved in refugee protection
  • Discuss the challenges and complexities of implementing humanitarian law in practice
Review Refugee Definition
Establish a strong understanding of who is considered a refugee according to international law.
Show steps
  • Read UNHCR's definition of a refugee
  • Summarize the key elements of the definition
  • Apply the definition to real-world examples
Read 'Refugee' by Colin Grant
Gain a firsthand perspective on the refugee experience and the complexities of displacement through the poignant and insightful memoir of Colin Grant.
Show steps
  • Read and reflect on Colin Grant's experiences
  • Analyze the themes and messages conveyed in the book
  • Compare and contrast the personal experiences with the broader refugee phenomenon
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice Identifying Durable Solutions
Develop the ability to recognize and differentiate between the three durable solutions for refugees.
Show steps
  • Review the definitions of voluntary repatriation, local integration, and resettlement
  • Analyze case studies to identify which solution is most appropriate
  • Write a short explanation justifying your choice for each case study
Attend a Refugee Aid Workshop
Engage with experts and practitioners in the field of refugee aid to gain practical knowledge and insights into providing effective support.
Show steps
  • Identify and register for a reputable refugee aid workshop
  • Actively participate in the workshop activities and discussions
  • Network with other attendees and professionals in the field
Explore the Refugee Convention
Gain a deeper understanding of the legal framework that governs refugee protection by delving into the provisions and principles of the Refugee Convention.
Show steps
  • Read the full text of the Refugee Convention
  • Identify the key articles that define refugee status and protection
  • Analyze how the Convention has been interpreted and applied in practice
Write a Blog Post on Refugee Crisis
Synthesize your knowledge and understanding of the refugee phenomenon by creating a comprehensive and informative blog post.
Show steps
  • Research the causes and consequences of the refugee crisis
  • Identify key issues and perspectives surrounding the crisis
  • Write a well-organized and well-argued blog post
  • Share your blog post and engage in discussions with readers

Career center

Learners who complete Refugees in the 21st Century will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Refugee Resettlement Counselor
Refugee Resettlement Counselors assist refugees in adjusting to their new lives in a foreign country. They provide guidance on a variety of topics, from housing and employment to education and healthcare. This course would be particularly helpful for Refugee Resettlement Counselors as it provides a comprehensive overview of the global refugee phenomenon, including the legal framework for refugee protection and the challenges that refugees face. The course would also help Refugee Resettlement Counselors develop the skills they need to provide effective support to refugees.
See salaries and explore the career path for Refugee Resettlement Counselor
Asylum Officer
Asylum Officers adjudicate asylum applications and determine whether or not applicants meet the criteria for refugee status. This course would be helpful for Asylum Officers as it provides a detailed understanding of the international refugee regime and the legal definition of a refugee. The course would also help Asylum Officers develop the analytical and decision-making skills they need to adjudicate asylum applications fairly and efficiently.
See salaries and explore the career path for Asylum Officer
Humanitarian Aid Worker
Humanitarian Aid Workers provide assistance to refugees and other displaced populations in emergency situations. This course would be helpful for Humanitarian Aid Workers as it provides a comprehensive overview of the global refugee phenomenon and the challenges that refugees face. The course would also help Humanitarian Aid Workers develop the skills they need to provide effective assistance to refugees.
See salaries and explore the career path for Humanitarian Aid Worker
Immigration Lawyer
Immigration Lawyers represent clients in immigration matters, including asylum applications and refugee status determinations. This course would be helpful for Immigration Lawyers as it provides a detailed understanding of the international refugee regime and the legal definition of a refugee. The course would also help Immigration Lawyers develop the skills they need to represent their clients effectively in immigration proceedings.
See salaries and explore the career path for Immigration Lawyer
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts develop and evaluate policies related to refugee protection and forced migration. This course would be helpful for Policy Analysts as it provides a comprehensive overview of the global refugee phenomenon and the challenges that refugees face. The course would also help Policy Analysts develop the skills they need to develop and evaluate policies that are effective and humane.
See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst
Social Worker
Social Workers provide counseling and support to refugees and other displaced populations. This course would be helpful for Social Workers as it provides a comprehensive overview of the global refugee phenomenon and the challenges that refugees face. The course would also help Social Workers develop the skills they need to provide effective support to refugees.
See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker
Journalist
Journalists report on refugee issues and raise awareness of the challenges that refugees face. This course would be helpful for Journalists as it provides a comprehensive overview of the global refugee phenomenon and the challenges that refugees face. The course would also help Journalists develop the skills they need to report on refugee issues accurately and fairly.
See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist
Teacher
Teachers educate students about refugee issues and promote understanding and empathy for refugees. This course would be helpful for Teachers as it provides a comprehensive overview of the global refugee phenomenon and the challenges that refugees face. The course would also help Teachers develop the skills they need to teach about refugee issues in a way that is engaging and informative.
See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher
Researcher
Researchers study refugee issues and develop new knowledge about the causes and consequences of forced migration. This course would be helpful for Researchers as it provides a comprehensive overview of the global refugee phenomenon and the challenges that refugees face. The course would also help Researchers develop the skills they need to conduct research on refugee issues.
See salaries and explore the career path for Researcher
Activist
Activists advocate for refugee rights and work to improve the lives of refugees. This course would be helpful for Activists as it provides a comprehensive overview of the global refugee phenomenon and the challenges that refugees face. The course would also help Activists develop the skills they need to advocate for refugee rights effectively.
See salaries and explore the career path for Activist
Program Manager
Program Managers oversee refugee assistance programs and ensure that refugees have access to the services they need. This course would be helpful for Program Managers as it provides a comprehensive overview of the global refugee phenomenon and the challenges that refugees face. The course would also help Program Managers develop the skills they need to manage refugee assistance programs effectively.
See salaries and explore the career path for Program Manager
Fundraiser
Fundraisers raise money to support refugee assistance programs. This course would be helpful for Fundraisers as it provides a comprehensive overview of the global refugee phenomenon and the challenges that refugees face. The course would also help Fundraisers develop the skills they need to raise money for refugee assistance programs effectively.
See salaries and explore the career path for Fundraiser
Volunteer
Volunteers provide direct assistance to refugees and other displaced populations. This course would be helpful for Volunteers as it provides a comprehensive overview of the global refugee phenomenon and the challenges that refugees face. The course would also help Volunteers develop the skills they need to provide effective assistance to refugees.
See salaries and explore the career path for Volunteer
Interpreter
Interpreters facilitate communication between refugees and service providers. This course would be helpful for Interpreters as it provides a comprehensive overview of the global refugee phenomenon and the challenges that refugees face. The course would also help Interpreters develop the skills they need to communicate effectively with refugees.
See salaries and explore the career path for Interpreter
Translator
Translators translate documents and other materials for refugees and service providers. This course would be helpful for Translators as it provides a comprehensive overview of the global refugee phenomenon and the challenges that refugees face. The course would also help Translators develop the skills they need to translate documents and materials accurately and effectively.
See salaries and explore the career path for Translator

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Refugees in the 21st Century.
Cover image
The Refugee in International Law
Save
International Refugee Law and Policy provides practical guidance on the legal principles, standards, and structures for the international protection of refugees.
The Refugee in International Law
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Refugees: A Very Short Introduction
Save
Refugees offers a broad survey of the global refugee phenomenon from its historical roots to the modern-day causes and consequences of forced displacement.
Refugees: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short...
Paperback
$$
Refugees: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees...
Save
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the latest research on refugee and forced migration studies, covering a wide range of topics from the causes of displacement to the challenges of integration.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees...
Kindle Edition
$$$
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees...
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Yearbook of the United Nations, Volume 43 (1989)
Save
Provides a detailed analysis of the 1951 Refugee Convention, including the legal standards for refugee status and the responsibilities of states to protect refugees.
Yearbook of the United Nations, Volume 43 (1989)
Paperback
Check
Yearbook of the United Nations, Volume 43 (1989)
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Global Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction...
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the global situation of internally displaced people, including the causes of displacement, the challenges faced by IDPs, and the international response.
Global Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction...
Paperback
Check
Global Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Yearbook of the United Nations 2013
Save
Provides a comparative analysis of the legal frameworks for statelessness in selected states, including the causes of statelessness, the legal definition of statelessness, and the rights of stateless persons.
Yearbook of the United Nations 2013
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Guide for rehabilitation workforce evaluation:...
Save
Provides a practical guide for health professionals working with migrants and refugees, including information on the health risks faced by migrants and refugees, the provision of health services, and the promotion of health equity.
Guide for rehabilitation workforce evaluation:...
Paperback
Check
Guide for rehabilitation workforce evaluation:...
Kindle Edition
Check

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Course image
Effort
Six weeks of study, 4-6 hours per week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of London
Instructors
Professor David Cantor
Professor Sarah Singer
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা tiếng Việt پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Suitable for learners who are interested in the humanitarian assistance arena
Introduces learners to various policies and regulations regarding refugee assistance
Examines multiple perspectives on the refugee phenomenon, which is valuable for learners who seek to understand the complexities of the issue
Taught by instructors who are well-respected in the field of refugee studies, whose expertise enhances the learning experience
Includes a range of activities and materials that foster engagement and a deeper understanding of the subject matter
Learners should note that the course does not delve into specific case studies or provide hands-on experience with refugee assistance
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