This fall, the North American Refugee Health Conference (NARHC) 2025 is set to take place in the beautiful locale of Niagara Falls, Canada, from September 11th to 13th. Since its inception in 2009, the conference has been the premier meeting place for professionals from diverse fields to converge and address some of the most pressing issues facing refugees and refugee claimants.
If you’re involved in healthcare, policy, advocacy, or settlement work for refugee populations, this conference promises to be an unparalleled opportunity to enhance your expertise, network with global leaders, and contribute to transformative discussions.
A Stellar Lineup of Plenary Sessions
NARHC 2025 boasts an impressive program featuring renowned national and international experts. These thought leaders will tackle a wide array of critical topics, including:
- Refugees and International Human Rights Law: Delivered by Payam Akhavan, an esteemed human rights lawyer and member of the Court of Arbitration at The Hague.
- Detention and Asylum Issues in Australia: Presented by Dr. Barri Phatafod, founder of Doctors for Refugees.
- Racism Against Refugees in the Health Sphere: Explored by Dr. Rageshri Dhaiyawan, a leading advocate for HIV and sexual health.
- Sexual Orientation, Gender Issues, and Migration: Discussed by Gabriel Schirvar, an LGTBIQ+ specialist and trainer for the International Organization on Migration.
- Challenges for Refugee Women: Highlighted by Dr. Shatha Elnakib, a specialist in sexual and reproductive health.
- Responding to Crisis in a Fractured World: Led by Dr. Paul Spiegel, Director of Johns Hopkins Center for Humanitarian Health.
These sessions will provide attendees with a comprehensive view of the challenges and innovations in refugee health and settlement worldwide.
Uniting Professionals Across Disciplines
The conference is designed for a wide audience, including family physicians, nurses, mental health professionals, policy experts, settlement workers, and students. Whether you’re just beginning your journey in refugee health or are an experienced practitioner, NARHC 2025 offers an inclusive space to learn, share, and grow.
A Vision for Change
At its core, the conference embodies a vision to be Canada’s premiere institute for developing and disseminating best practices in refugee health and settlement. By fostering collaboration among healthcare providers, settlement workers, and advocates, NARHC aims to:
- Equip professionals with tools to deliver culturally competent care.
- Advocate for vulnerable populations, including women, children, and 2SLGBTQIA+ refugees.
- Promote research and develop guidelines to improve health and social outcomes for refugees.
Strong Leadership
Dr. Anna Banerji, the founder of NARHC, is a pediatrician, infectious/tropical disease specialist, public health specialist, and human rights advocate. Equity, diversity, and social justice have been central throughout her professional career and personal life.
Dr. Banerji’s dedication to humanitarian causes is evident in her establishment of the COSTI Pediatric Clinic in Toronto, where she provides critical health screenings for refugee children. During the Syrian refugee influx in 2016, she was the first healthcare provider to offer support at their accommodations.
Today, she continues her impactful work by assessing Afghan children at airport hotels. Additionally, Dr. Banerji has been a prominent advocate for Indigenous health for nearly three decades, spearheading groundbreaking research on respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and championing improved resources for Indigenous communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her remarkable contributions have earned her prestigious honors, including the Order of Ontario and recognition as one of Canada’s Top 25 Women of Influence.
Why Attend?
- Gain Insights from World Leaders: The program features a world-renowned faculty of experts who bring global perspectives and practical solutions to the challenges of refugee health and settlement.
- Engage in Multidisciplinary Collaboration: This is a rare opportunity to connect with professionals across disciplines, from clinical practitioners and policymakers to researchers and advocates.
- Learn and Share Best Practices: Participate in interactive workshops and panel discussions to exchange ideas and explore innovative approaches to refugee health.
- Build Meaningful Networks: Forge lasting connections with global experts and peers who share your passion for advocacy, education, and research in refugee health.
- Be Inspired: NARHC’s commitment to human rights, education, and community-building will leave you motivated to implement change in your own practice or organization.
What to Expect
Attendees can anticipate engaging keynote addresses, thought-provoking panel discussions, and hands-on workshops that provide actionable insights. The conference’s welcoming atmosphere encourages active participation, ensuring every voice is heard and valued.
Join Us at Niagara Falls
The breathtaking backdrop of Niagara Falls offers a fitting setting for a conference dedicated to overcoming challenges and fostering unity in a fractured world. From its inception in 2009, NARHC has grown into the leading global conference for refugee health. This year promises to build on that legacy, offering an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this pivotal gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or a newcomer to the field, your presence at NARHC 2025 can help shape the future of refugee health and settlement.