About us

Established in 2020 as a research centre at Waipapa Taumata Rau, the University of Auckland, the Centre for Asia Pacific Refugee Studies (CAPRS) is uniquely positioned to advance our vision and mission as a critic and conscience of society*. CAPRS is comprised of a transdisciplinary group of scholars and practitioners committed to transforming research into impact.

Situated in Aotearoa New Zealand, we are committed to upholding the principles, rights, and obligations articulated in Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi), the country’s founding document. Our location positions us as a hub for addressing displacement challenges across the Asia Pacific region and beyond. By leveraging Aotearoa New Zealand's strong traditions of diplomacy, human rights advocacy, and expertise in indigenous rights and environmental sustainability, CAPRS offers a valuable perspective for understanding and responding to issues of forced displacement, social justice, and human security.

*The term ‘critic and conscience of society’ is enshrined in the Education Act 1989
and its update in 2020. The term confers a special role and responsibility on
universities and academics to speak out in public and to challenge problematic
ideas. 

CAPRS is dedicated to addressing the complex challenges of forced displacement in the Asia Pacific Region through a three-fold approach, underpinned by rigorous scholarly research, and engaged teaching.

Collaborate: We facilitate collaboration and knowledge exchange between and within academia, refugee-led organisations, civil society, governments, multilateral bodies, private sector, and funders, leveraging their diverse strengths.

Amplify: We amplify scholarship that centres the expertise of forcibly displaced people to inform policy and practice.

Activate: We challenge and seek to transform the structures that perpetuate the marginalisation and vulnerability of forcibly displaced people.

The Centre for Asia Pacific Refugee Studies (CAPRS) envisions a future where forcibly displaced people are respected and supported to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.

Humanity: We believe in the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, regardless of their displacement status.

Social Justice: We are dedicated to promoting fairness, equity, and justice.

Engaged Scholarship: We value the importance of scholarly research and partnerships to ensure our work is impactful, meaningful, and trusted.

Commitment to Te Ao Māori (Māori Worldview): We strive to incorporate Te Ao Māori values of manaakitanga (hospitality), whanaungatanga (relationships), and kaitiakitanga (stewardship) into our work.