Unlocking Telework for Refugees: 8 Multi-sector Policy Recommendations
Partners: Centre for Trade and Economic Integration & Geneva Trade Platform
This research initiative investigated how digital employment can offer new pathways to security and prosperity for refugees. Addressing barriers such as digital upskilling, legal frameworks, and recognition of qualifications, the research proposes eight targeted policy recommendations across key sectors—governmental, NGO, private, and international organizations to enhance the the accessibility and sustainability of digital employment opportunities for refugees.
Our outputs
Publication - Unlocking Telework for refugees
This research paper charts actionable pathways to expand digital employment for refugees. Grounded in the experience of 15 Switzerland-based Ukranian refugees and developed through engagement with 25 organizations across sectors, this publication offers a timely look into the shifting realities of forced displacement and digital opportunity.
Future of Work Summit 2023 - Break OUt session
As part of the Pathways to Work programme at the Future of Work Summit 2023, this breakout session convened cross-sector actors to examine the potential of telework for refugees. Grounded in the Ukrainian displacement context, it surfaced key barriers, promising ideas, and early steps toward inclusive digital sustainable employment ecosystems.
Geneva Trade Week 2023 - Workshop Session
Co-hosted with the International Trade Centre during Geneva Trade Week 2023, this second workshop presented research findings and tested policy recommendations to expand refugee access to digital employment. Building on the Future of Work Summit 2023, it deepened the inquiry, positioning telework within trade systems as a pathway to inclusion.
Funders & Partners
This research project and its resulting workshops were made possible by the generous support of Mr. Sergei Popov, and carried out in collaboration with the Centre for Trade and Economic Integration (CTEI), the Geneva Trade Platform, and the International Trade Centre (ITC).
ABOUT THE CENTRE FOR TRADE AND ECONOMIC INTEGRATION (CTEI)
The Centre for Trade and Economic Integration (CTEI) is the Geneva Graduate Institute's Centre of Excellence for research on international trade. We bring together experts in economics, law, and political science to explore trade, economic integration, and globalization.
CTEI acts as a global hub connecting academics, businesses, NGOs, and policymakers. We bridge theory and practice, including partnerships with research centres in the Global South. Our activities include research projects, high-level events, and a vibrant visiting scholars programme.
The geneva trade platform (GTP)
The Geneva Trade Platform is a not-for-profit organization based within the Geneva Graduate Institute's Centre for Trade and Economic Integration.
We are a hub, designed to bring people, ideas, and resources together to address global challenges through better informed, better supported, and more inclusive trade policy. We rely on the support of donors and delivery partners to deliver need-sdriven, outcomes-focused projects through our four pillars and across our themes.
the international trade centre (ITC)
The International Trade Centre (ITC) is a joint agency of the UN and the WTO that advances the trade and development agenda, including through the sustainable and inclusive growth of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises.
ITC’s Refugees and Trade Programme works with public and private sector actors to facilitate better participation in trade for refugee entrepreneurs and refugee-led businesses, including in the digital service sector. The programme is active in key refugee-hosting countries, including Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Ukraine, and Pakistan.