※ The English version follows below.
Suzan and Dim, members of Robo Co-op, participated in an online meeting of J-FUN (Japan Association for UNHCR and NGOs) held on January 30. Established in 2006, J-FUN is an open, nationwide forum that brings together organizations engaged in refugee protection and humanitarian assistance, with participation from more than 30 organizations.
The meeting featured a reporting and reflection session on the Global Refugee Forum Progress Review (GRF-PR) conducted in December last year, during which Suzan and Dim shared Robo Co-op’s experiences.
During the session, they highlighted key shifts observed through the GRF-PR—from project-based support toward system-building approaches that encompass skills development, legal access, and financial and digital infrastructure. They also emphasized the importance of refugees’ participation not merely as recipients of assistance, but as active actors who contribute knowledge and practical expertise. In addition, they shared insights into Robo Co-op’s refugee-led model of economic inclusion, its collaborations with Japanese companies, and its partnerships with overseas organizations.
Drawing on their experiences participating in international forums as refugees themselves, they underscored that “Meaningful Refugee Participation” requires more than simply providing opportunities to speak; it demands intentional spaces and mechanisms that ensure voices are genuinely heard and respected.
Through this reflection, the importance of collaboration, continuous improvement, and knowledge sharing was reaffirmed as essential for moving forward together as a community.
Robo Co-op extends its sincere gratitude to everyone at J-FUN for this valuable opportunity for exchange. Robo Co-op looks forward to continuing these dialogues for shared learning and to further strengthening collaboration in the future.