Presented by: Philippe Legrain, London School of Economics’ European Institute

There is a powerful business case for employing hard-working, talented and loyal refugees - it's much more than just corporate social responsibility. Philippe Legrain will present the findings of his ground-breaking international research that demonstrates the economic value of employing refugees, both for individual employers and for society as a whole. Come along and find out about all the opportunities that exist!

Philippe Legrain –

Philippe Legrain is a critically acclaimed thinker with high-level policy experience and a track record of political and economic insight.

A senior visiting fellow at the London School of Economics’ European Institute, he is the founder of Open Political Economy Network (OPEN), an international think-tank on openness issues, and a commentator for Foreign Policy, Project Syndicate, the BBC, Al Jazeera and other international media outlets.

Previously, he was economic adviser to European Commission President José Manuel Barroso, special adviser to World Trade Organisation Director-General Mike Moore, and trade and economics correspondent for The Economist.

Philippe is the author of four best-selling books, notably Immigrants: Your Country Needs Them, which was shortlisted for the 2007 Financial Times Business Book of the Year. His studies for OPEN and the Tent Foundation include Refugees Work: A humanitarian investment that yields economic dividends and Step Up: How to get refugees into work quickly.

HOST International –

HOST International is a non-profit working in four countries across the Asia Pacific region. The organisation exists to make life better for displaced people, refugees, and the communities that host them on their journey. They do this by fostering humanity, hope and dignity for all people.

In New Zealand, the focus is on making it possible for refugees to find employment and self-employment. This includes launching the Refugee Talent digital platform to connect skilled refugees with companies offering short and long term job opportunities. Work is also underway to lead the development of innovative approaches to settlement including accommodation and integration.

More information

Dr Laura Meriluoto
Department of Economics and Finance

Email: laura.meriluoto@canterbury.ac.nz

How can hiring refugees benefit your business?