Preamble

At Refugee Pathways & Integration Canada (RefPIC), our programs and initiatives are rooted in global standards designed to uphold the dignity, rights, and well-being of refugees and displaced persons. These international frameworks guide our governance, oversight, and program implementation, ensuring the highest standards of accountability and transparency. Below is a summary of the key international frameworks that form the foundation of RefPIC’s work.

1. 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol

Relevance to RefPIC:This cornerstone legal framework defines the rights of refugees and outlines states' obligations for their protection. RefPIC's initiatives, such as legal aid, complementary pathways for resettlement, and family reunification, directly align with the principles enshrined in the Convention. These efforts ensure refugees have access to asylum, legal protection, and meaningful participation in society.

2. Global Compact on Refugees (GCR) and Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework (CRRF)

Relevance to RefPIC:The GCR and CRRF emphasize a cooperative international approach to refugee protection and solutions. RefPIC’s programs—economic empowerment, education, and healthcare—focus on building refugee resilience, promoting self-reliance, and fostering integration while ensuring shared responsibility among stakeholders.

3. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Relevance to RefPIC:Several SDGs are integrated into RefPIC’s programming to address refugee challenges and promote sustainable solutions:

• SDG 2 (Zero Hunger): Promotes food security and sustainable agriculture in refugee communities.

• SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): Supports healthcare, mental health, and psychosocial programs.

• SDG 4 (Quality Education): Ensures access to education and vocational training for refugees.

• SDG 5 (Gender Equality): Empowers women and addresses gender-based violence.

• SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation): Improves access to safe water and sanitation facilities.

• SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth): Creates economic opportunities for refugees.

• SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities): Advocates for social inclusion and addresses systemic barriers.

• SDG 13 (Climate Action): Incorporates environmental sustainability into programming.

• SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions): Supports legal aid and access to justice.

• SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): Builds strong partnerships to advance RefPIC’s mission.

4. International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR)

Relevance to RefPIC:The ICCPR guarantees civil and political rights, including freedom from discrimination and the right to legal protection. RefPIC integrates these principles into its advocacy, legal aid programs, and support for vulnerable groups.

5. Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC)

Relevance to RefPIC:The CRC emphasizes children’s rights to education, healthcare, and safety. RefPIC's child protection programs ensure that refugee children have access to critical services, enabling their development in secure environments.

6. Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW)

Relevance to RefPIC:CEDAW informs RefPIC’s initiatives on gender equality and the prevention of gender-based violence. These programs prioritize women's access to education, healthcare, and livelihoods while ensuring their safety and inclusion.

7. Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)

Relevance to RefPIC:The CRPD underscores the importance of inclusion for persons with disabilities. RefPIC’s programs address accessibility challenges and promote equal opportunities for refugees with disabilities.

8. Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030)

Relevance to RefPIC:This framework emphasizes disaster resilience and preparedness. RefPIC’s emergency response initiatives align with these principles to reduce vulnerabilities in refugee communities.

9. WHO Mental Health Action Plan (2013-2030)

Relevance to RefPIC:This plan integrates mental health services into humanitarian responses. RefPIC provides mental health and psychosocial support tailored to the needs of refugees.

10. Sphere Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards

Relevance to RefPIC:The Sphere standards ensure quality and accountability in humanitarian assistance. RefPIC’s programs adhere to these benchmarks, ensuring effective service delivery.

11. UNHCR Guidelines on International Protection

Relevance to RefPIC:These guidelines guide RefPIC’s legal aid services, advocacy for refugee rights, and family reunification efforts while upholding the principle of non-refoulement.

12. International Labour Organization (ILO) Standards

Relevance to RefPIC:ILO standards inform RefPIC’s economic empowerment programs, promoting fair working conditions and decent employment opportunities for refugees.

13. Convention on Cultural Property and the Protection of Cultural Heritage

Relevance to RefPIC:This convention emphasizes preserving cultural identity. RefPIC integrates respect for refugees' cultural heritage into its programs to foster dignity and inclusion.

14. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

Relevance to RefPIC:GDPR informs RefPIC’s data protection protocols, ensuring the privacy and security of refugees’ personal information.

Conclusion

These international frameworks form the foundation of RefPIC’s mission to empower refugees and displaced persons. By aligning its programs with these global standards, RefPIC demonstrates a commitment to ethical, transparent, and impactful service delivery. This ensures that all initiatives are grounded in principles that uphold human rights, dignity, and sustainable development.