About the Global Network on Refugee Labour Mobility

Origins and Implementation

At the time the Global Task Force on Refugee Labour Mobility was established, there were discussions on the pros and cons of a “large group” comprehensive membership versus a “core group” or “steering committee” model.

With the establishment of a relatively small but agile Task Force in April 2022, there remained a view that a broader circle, inclusive of all organizations interested in and contributing to the objectives of safe pathways for refugees via employment, was desirable. The Task Force announced the formation of the Global Network on Refugee Labour Mobility (Network) at the first Global Refugee Labour Mobility Summit in Amman, Jordan in March 2023.

Purpose and Program

The direction of the Network is still evolving and is responsive to the interests and goals of its membership.

The initial meeting of the Network was convened by the Government of Canada on 6 July 2023, in its role as Chair of the Global Task Force. Over 80 participants from governments, international organizations, NGOs, refugee-led organizations, and the private sector joined. The Network’s secretariat is currently housed at the Permanent Mission of Canada in Geneva. 

The purpose of the Network is to:

• Promote a sense of community and common purpose across stakeholders engaged in refugee labour mobility;
• Create a medium through which refugee representatives with lived experience in labour mobility will be able to offer advice to other stakeholders;
• Provide a platform to share information about shared challenges and come together around solutions.

The Network has the potential to accelerate efforts to scale refugee labour mobility globally by creating a platform for exchanges of best practices, locating new partners for specific needs or tasks, and sharing practical information on a wide variety of topics. As of September 2023, the Network has about 90 members, with plans for regular virtual convenings.