Rohingya refugee resettlement as a community of practice

Abstract

AbstractThe following article argues that community development practices in conjunction with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) resettlement process can be analysed and enhanced through the application of the Community of Practice social learning theory. This work is elucidated by critical reflections on community development by and with the Rohingya community in Ireland. Analysis of practices with this cohort is urgent given the wider context of the on-going humanitarian crisis in Myanmar. The Community of Practice here is conceptualised as the partners, stakeholders and agencies in addition to members of the Rohingya community that each practices community development. The article provides an overview of the resettlement process for the Rohingya before applying the model across its four components—community, practice, meaning and identity. Conclusions include the recognition that community development approaches of collaboration and partnership at the heart of the resettlement process equate to a Community of Practice model. This is described here as interdependent, in part, to distinguish this approach from the stated UNHCR goal of independence. Secondly, a longitudinal approach to strategy is supported by Community of Practice theory through processes of reiteration, reification and participation. Finally, Community of Practice theory informs concepts of identity and community to argue in favour of diverse and flexible goal setting.