Safe Havens and Knowledge Networks in Canada Conference
May 22–23, 2025 | Carleton University | In-Person and Online Options Available — Register HERE.
Event Details
This hybrid in-person and online conference is designed to engage diverse stakeholders in conversations about pathways to immigration, resettlement, and preservation of knowledge networks for at-risk and displaced scholars. The conference is supported by the International Development Research Centre’s initiative for Democratic and Inclusive Governance (IDRC-DIG). Their commitment to investing in the role of research to finding solutions to issues in the international development sector has helped make this gathering possible. This conference was also made possible by the foundation built by the Carleton University/University of British Columbia Placement, Preservation and Perseverance (PPP) project which focused on Afghan at-risk scholars. Learn more about the project here: Placement, Preservation and Perseverance: Afghan At-risk Scholars, Activists and Students – Carleton University.
At this conference, we will make space for important conversations about intellectual and economic integration, best practices for hosting universities, the role of the university during times of chronic global conflict and forced displacement. The conference acknowledges the simultaneous professional and humanitarian struggles faced by at-risk and displaced scholars and artists, calling for a national program, like those established in France, Germany, and the UK, to support and preserve global knowledge networks.
This event is a unique moment to draw together academic researchers, non-academic stakeholders, and at-risk and displaced scholars into a galvanizing event that connects international, national, and local perspectives of the universities hosting at-risk scholars, the at- risk and displaced scholars themselves. While almost one third of Canadian universities are members of SAR Canada, it remains a loose network with a need for organizational sustainability and sharing lessons learned. Carleton University’s Scholars at Risk (SAR) Initiative aligns closely with the university’s three strategic directions: Share Knowledge, Shape the Future, and Serve Ottawa, Canada, and the World. By collaborating with institutions across Canada to share best practices and develop integration programs, Carleton exemplifies its commitment to Share Knowledge through international academic solidarity. Carleton’s multidisciplinary approach supports scholars from all fields, from STEM disciplines to arts and social sciences, enriching the academic environment and helping to Shape the Future of global education and research. Through its advocacy for immigration and integration solutions, Carleton serves a critical role in supporting at-risk scholars, fully embracing the strategic direction to Serve Ottawa, Canada, and the World.
In addition, Carleton has provided a safe haven for at-risk and displaced scholars and continues to advocate strongly for global academic freedom and solidarity, inclusive and democratic governance, and preservation of knowledge. Since 2013, the SAR program has hosted over 20 at-risk scholars, offering them refuge and resources to continue their work in areas such as art and culture, biology, communications, economics, engineering, English, journalism, legal studies, linguistics, mathematics, physics, political science, and sociology. Scholars from countries such as Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Russia, Syria, Turkey, Tunisia, Uganda, Ukraine, and Yemen have held appointments at Carleton University. The conference content and audiences align with the SIP goal of creating interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary research that engages community partnerships, as well as national and international collaborations, that will contribute to important national and global policy change. This conference also aligns with the SIP objective to “leverage the power of higher education to be a force for good.” We hope you can join us for this important and timely event! Register HERE.