Date of Award
5-2016
Degree Type
Research Paper
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Community Development and Planning (CDP)
Department
International Development, Community and Environment
Chief Instructor
Anita Fabos
Second Reader
Laurie Ross
Keywords
refugee resettlement, neoliberalism, social justice, nonprofits, immigration policy, refugees, united states, urban studies, social services
Abstract
Within the current political climate and discussions surrounding displacement, refugee resettlement is a ‘hot-button’ issue. While working at one of the largest resettlement agencies in New England, the author began to analyze how power itself is structured within the Refugee Resettlement Industry (RRI) nationally. This paper argues that the RRI is embedded within neoliberal governance and can be better understood and improved with this understanding. The author argues for the term “Refugee [Resettlement] Industrial Complex,” to more adequately understand the ways that power is enacted through the current structure, and how it inhibits social justice work rooted in advocating for systemic change. Using secondary literature and participatory observation, she will explore RRI, neoliberalism, and the Non Profit Industrial Complex (NPIC) to argue her points. These findings aim to expand the existing literature and advocacy initiatives aimed at improving programs and services for refugees in the United States, and the possibilities of creating grassroots newcomer centers focused on social justice principles.
Recommended Citation
Al-Dasouqi, Amira F., ""Refugee Industrial Complex," Neoliberal Governance Within the Resettlement Industry and Its Effects: Is An Alternative Structure Possible?" (2016). International Development, Community and Environment (IDCE). 48.
https://commons.clarku.edu/idce_masters_papers/48
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