Year of Graduation
2025
Document Type
Thesis
Major
International Studies
Directing Professor
Dr. Ashleigh Breske
Abstract
The world’s refugee crisis is ongoing and increasing in severity. By employing a thematic analysis this thesis seeks to center refugee perspectives to define success in resettlement. Through comparative analysis, commonalities and differences are found within the resettlement practices and policies of the USA, Italy, and Canada. The Integrated Threat and Cultural Adaptation theories are utilized to help understand the actions of both the receiving society and the refugees themselves. Canada remains a top destination for refugees; however, the worsening housing crisis is proving to put significant hardship on refugees. The US refugee resettlement program is contradictory in that it prioritizes accepting the most vulnerable refugees while expecting them to be work-ready upon arrival. Further, the US provides an insufficient amount of assistance (in regard to duration) during resettlement. The Italian Humanitarian Corridors Program is a groundbreaking initiative that proves successful but presents conflicts when trying to expand. Drawing on qualitative and quantitative data from resettlement case studies in each country, the analysis reveals that consistent gaps remain in addressing systemic barriers and personal needs.
Recommended Citation
Parker, Elyssa, "Globally cross-examining case studies of refugee resettlement: How do these help us understand “successful” refugee integration? A look at refugees and how they are resettled in the USA, Canada, and Italy." (2025). Undergraduate Honors Theses, Hollins University. 74.
https://digitalcommons.hollins.edu/ughonors/74