At the end of 2024, an estimated 123.2 million people worldwide were forcibly displaced due to persecution, conflict, violence, human rights violations and events seriously disturbing the public order. Refugees and displaced populations face significant health inequities, including barriers to care, high prevalence of chronic illness, limited access to preventive services, and the psychological toll of trauma and displacement. Despite these challenges, research on refugee health and evidence-based models for sustainable care remain underdeveloped. Indigenous communities and historically displaced populations in the US also face significant disparities related to generational trauma. Indigenous populations disproportionately face lower life expectancies compared with other Americans, particularly in rural settings. The need for improvement in healthcare delivery to Indigenous communities continues to be critical.

The Collaborative on Forced Migration and Health is an interdisciplinary initiative housed at the Center for Global Health Equity at Brown University dedicated to advancing the health and well-being of refugees, Indigenous communities, and forcibly displaced populations. Our program integrates clinical care, research, program development, education, and advocacy at both local and global levels. Through partnerships with refugee-serving organizations, academic researchers, clinicians, and community leaders, we are uniquely positioned to support local refugee health initiatives, such as the Brown Human Rights Asylum Clinic, Rhode Island–based refugee clinics and international research and capacity-building efforts. To improve healthcare delivery to Indigenous communities, we partner with local tribal and Indigenous-lead organizations, Brown University’s Native American and Indigenous Studies Initiative, and the federal agency Indian Health Service. 

A world where refugees, Indigenous populations, and forcibly displaced people have equitable access to high-quality healthcare, where evidence-driven policies guide practice, and where communities—local and global—are empowered to thrive despite the challenges of displacement.

To improve the health and well-being of refugees, asylum seekers, and Indigenous and displaced populations.

Our approach combines patient-centered clinical care, interdisciplinary research, and training for future health providers. By partnering with local and global organizations, we build capacity and promote sustainable, equitable health systems for displaced populations.