Storytelling that Informs Policy: Addressing Forced Displacement and Refugee Challenges

As forced displacement issues are increasingly viewed through the lens of cycle-based media, lived experiences often go unseen and neglected, forcing refugees, asylum seekers, and other displaced people to develop their own methods of support, visibility, and influence on policy.

In partnership with the Art Works Projects (AWP), the Wilson Center Refugee and Forced Displacement Initiative (RAFDI) presents a symposium on Storytelling that Informs Policy: Addressing Forced Displacement and Refugee Challenges. This event aims to raise awareness about the distinct challenges faced by the displaced people that are not receiving much attention; expand the space for new perspectives and constructive dialogue to engage a diverse audience in questions of public policy to inform actionable solutions; and help contextualize the complexity of forced displacement through the human rights, peace and justice lenses.

The symposium will explore how visual media, lived experience, and other tools can open up dialogue and inform new perspectives that will lead to better understanding of the root causes and challenges of forced displacement and where, in the ecosystem, each of the stakeholders can play a role in identifying creative solutions to address a quickly growing global phenomenon. In addition to opening remarks, flash talk, panel discussion, and reception, the attendees will have an opportunity to view installed exhibitions amplifying the stories of the very people whose lives are impacted by the often challenging road to secure a place to call home.