Our Refugee Network is a network for people from refugee backgrounds to gather to discuss, prioritise and advocate on local, state, national and international issues of greatest concern to them. We invite people who are passionate and keen to engage in advocacy with the AU, its Recs and Member States and international bodies such as UNHCR to join the network. 

We advocate on a range of issues, including:
• AU Watch humanitarian program, including family reunion
• Settlement issues such as employment, education, or housing
• AU’s refugee policies
• International issues such as refugee protection around the world

Why?
AU Watch believes refugee communities play a vital role in advocating on issues that impact them, and acknowledges the wealth of knowledge, skill, and experience these communities have. We believe successful advocacy relies on the participation and leadership of community groups.

Who?
This network is for organisations working on refugee matters and people from a refugee or asylum seeker background. We are keen to have participation from a wide range of people, including those who are formal community leaders as well as others who are passionate about advocacy. We particularly invites women and young people to participate.

Activities
Examples of the activities the network undertakes include:
• Meeting AU officials to raise issues of concern
• Raising issues on local and national media, including radio, newspapers and the internet
• Participating in consultations held by state and federal government bodies
• Writing letters to relevant AU officials on issues of concern
• Speaking at local events

By sharing information and working collaboratively, the Network aims to achieve positive policy change for refugees and IDPs.

Interested in joining this Network? Please make contact.