Refuge in a Moving World
The Refuge in a Moving World network at UCL Geography brings together researchers across UCL to explore displacement, forced migration and exile through cross-disciplinary collaboration.
The Refuge in a Moving World (RiMW) network brings together experts from across UCL who research displacement, forced migration, exile, and conflict. Our aim is to foster cross-disciplinary collaboration that deepens understanding of mass displacement and its human, material, and cultural impacts worldwide.
"Cross-disciplinary and interdisciplinary research is key to understanding and responding to the complex realities of displacement around the world."
What We Do
The network connects researchers, practitioners, and students to explore the causes, experiences, and impacts of displacement.
We organise research-led events such as seminar series (.pdf), conferences, workshops, and public debates. These events explore how politics, people, and perceptions shape displacement and mobility.
Our RiMW PhD Wing supports MPhil/PhD students working on topics related to conflict and displacement. See details below on how to join.
Join the Network
We’re always expanding our community. If you’d like to join the Refuge in a Moving World network or add your project to the Directory, please email
Elena Fiddian-QasmiyehPhD Wing Contacts
Supporting early-career researchers in conflict and displacement studies across UCL. If you are an MPhil/PhD student researching conflict or displacement, you are welcome to join the RiMW PhD Wing.
Aydan Greatrick
Click to email. aydan.greatrick.15@ucl.ac.uk
Victoria Tecca
Click to email. victoria.tecca.13@ucl.ac.uk
Claire Fletcher
Click to email. claire.fletcher.15@ucl.ac.uk
Professor Elena Fiddian-Qasmiyeh is Professor of Migration and Refugee Studies in UCL Geography, Co-Director of the Migration Research Unit, and Coordinator of Refuge in a Moving World. Her research examines how gender, generation, and religion shape experiences of conflict-induced displacement, with a focus on the Middle East and North Africa, and she leads major projects on local and South–South humanitarian responses.
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