The State of Migration and Refugees in Scotland Amidst a Changing World

This proposal aligns closely with the Scottish Council on Global Affairs (SCGA)'s State of the World Project for 2025-26 by focusing on the theme of Human Rights and Migration, and examining how global migration dynamics intersect with Scotland's devolved policies ahead of the 2026 Scottish elections. It takes a 'big picture' view of the state of migration and refugees in 2025/2026, highlighting key global challenges including conflict-driven displacement from regions like Ukraine, the Middle East, and Africa; climate-induced migration due to rising sea levels and extreme weather (as per IPCC assessments); and post-Brexit UK immigration policies that limit Scotland's autonomy in areas like asylum processing and integration. These trends exacerbate domestic issues in Scotland, including strains on housing, healthcare, education, and social cohesion, while offering opportunities for Scotland to contribute globally through its progressive New Scots Refugee Integration Strategy and human rights-based approach to external relations. Drawing on reports from the Scottish Refugee Council, UNHCR, and the Scottish Government, the project connects international pressures to lived experiences in Scotland, such as the integration of over 25,000 Ukrainian refugees since 2022 and the growing need for climate-resilient policies. Our project outputs will leverage SCGA's dissemination networks, including workshops, events, podcasts and a post-election briefing for new parliamentarians, to amplify impact and position Scotland as a leader in ethical migration governance. This will be delivered through collaboration with academia, NGOs, and refugee-led groups and directly support the SCGA’s goals of knowledge exchange, public engagement, and policy influence.