Refugee Festival Scotland has announced an exciting line-up of events sharing the stories of people and communities who have settled in Scotland. Including a whole host of events in Glasgow’s Southside, including Govanhill and the surrounding areas.

During lockdown, Greater Govanhill editor Rhiannon reported on how some community spaces were supporting those in need by providing food provisions. Three years on, little has changed, except for the increase in the number of people seeking support. 

We chat to Amma Birth Companions about the valuable work they do in advocating for expectant refugee and asylum seekers. They tell us about the health inequalities that women of colour experience when accessing maternal health services.

A poignant piece on the challenges of motherhood from Mary and how the asylum system shaped her experiences of birth.

In his documentary Glasgow Welcomes Refugees, South-American Filmmaker Jose Maria Martinelli shares the experiences of two Scottish activists, Jock Morris and Margaret Woods, who detail the history of the Glasgow Campaign to Welcome Refugees.

“Despite studying my master’s degree in migration, it is only through experience that I was able to understand how badly the UK immigration systems affect people.” In our series that explores the lives of people who have made Govanhill their home, we spoke to Noha Al-Maghafi an artist and musician from Yemen.

The Bowling Green and Love Jam Glasgow brought the community together to celebrate the summer solstice and the Refugee Festival during Refugee Week and local residents from all walks of life joined in the festivities.

The Scottish Refugee Festival Scotland is returning from 16-25 June with the theme of hope – ‘showcasing inspiring stories and sharing hopes and dreams for a better future’

The Illegal migration bill has come under heavy criticism from campaigners who call it unworkable, and have dubbed it the ‘Refugee Ban Bill’. Alison, Thewliss, MP for Glasgow Central, believes that we can – and must – do better.

Following a successful crowdfunding campaign, a new book based on experiences in the ‘worst refugee camp on Earth’ is to be published by Glasgow-based social enterprise publisher, Arkbound.

As part of Refugee Festival Scotland on Wednesday 22nd June, Radio Buena Vida will be airing the show as a culmination of a number of workshops with those with experience of the asylum system.

On the weekend of the 13th/14th June, the residents of Pollokshields gathered to commemorate, celebrate and educate on the anniversary of the Kenmure Street protests.

After two men were detained by the UK Border Agency in Pollokshields yesterday, the local community took a stand in defence of their neighbours. This incredible collective community action resulted in the release of the detainees, who are now receiving legal support as PAIH Director, Robina Qureshi explains.