03 July 2012

Development-induced Displacement Conference

Next March, the Refugee Studies Centre (RSC) will host the "International Conference on Development-Induced Displacement and Resettlement: Bridging Research and Practice, Filling the Knowledge Gaps."  Here is the description:
There is virtually no limit to what can be called a development project. It can range from a small-scale infrastructure or mining project to a mega hydropower plant construction; can be public or private, well-planned or rushed into. Land-based development initiatives may and often do cause physical and economic displacement that results in impoverishment and disempowerment of affected populations. Despite decades of experience and study on development-induced displacement and resettlement, the severity of the problem persists, with its adverse impacts not yet being effectively addressed.
DIDR has been intensifying in frequency and scope propelled by the increasing needs of growing populations and globalisation, whereas the discussions on the subject have become disproportionately scant. Different interests and ethical considerations pull the academia, private and civil sectors apart, creating inescapable traps and sources of bias in research, policy and practice. This disconnection manifests itself in the knowledge gaps. Whilst controversies in policy-making and practice remain understudied, academic findings endure unincorporated.
This conference aims to revive the discussions on DIDR and to facilitate critical engagement with the current impasse. It will facilitate cross-communication between different stakeholders, disciplines and perspectives; and will seek to bridge research and practice with a view to fill the knowledge gaps and move the DIDR studies forward.
Here is the call for papers; abstracts are due 31 October 2012.  Registration opens in November.

For information posted on this blog that relates to development-induced displacement, browse the subject label.  See also relevant resources referenced on my wiki.

Tagged Events & Opportunities.   

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