Creative public engagement workshop on human rights approaches in the context of displacement

Date: Friday, 20 June 2025

Location: Grassmarket Community Project, Edinburgh

Join us for a one-day participatory workshop bringing together members of NGOs, community groups, and early-career researchers working with refugee and migrant communities. Held during Refugee Week, this workshop offers space to explore and reflect on how human rights approaches can support displaced individuals and communities.

The day will feature contributions from Suzanne Hoff (La Strada International), Heather Komenda (International Organization for Migration – IOM), Kiril Sharapov (Edinburgh Napier University), and Frederik Byrn Køhlert (Edinburgh Napier University), followed by interactive discussions and creative activities.

The programme also includes a presentation and screening by filmmaker Brook Woldu of two participatory and collaborative documentary films that explore the lived experiences of refugees and the multiple challenges they face in the UK.

Together, we will share experiences, build connections, and co-develop practical strategies for rights-based advocacy.

Activities will include a collaborative photo and object collage and an interactive comics session exploring migration stories. No creative experience is required.

Who can attend:

This workshop is open to individuals who are members of non-governmental organisations or community groups working with and led by migrant and refugee communities. We are also inviting early-career researchers (PhD and post-doc levels) researching in this field.

Important:
This is a participatory event where all attendees are encouraged to take part in both discussions and creative sessions. Participants are asked to bring a photograph, object, or personal item that reflects their experiences of displacement or their work with displaced communities. Examples might include a meaningful photograph, a small keepsake, or an item that symbolises their journey or engagement. Contributions will help create a shared arts-based installation and are an important part of the event.

Participation is free. Lunch and refreshments will be provided.

For information on the venue's accessibility, check Euan's Guide: https://www.euansguide.com/venues/grassmarket-community-project-edinburgh-5585/reviews/a-place-to-meet-to-eat-and-make-a-difference-197

Further information: https://www.migrationmobilities.com/human-rights-and-displacement-2025