Dr. Eileen Pittaway

Biography

Eileen Pittaway is an Adjunct Associate Professor in the School of Social Sciences at UNSW, specializing in Refugee Studies. Her work focuses on issues related to endemic sexual and gender-based violence affecting refugee women and girls, advocating for their participation in decision-making processes at local and international levels. She has extensive experience conducting research and providing training for refugees and UN staff across 22 countries, including urban settings and refugee camps. Eileen's advocacy and research have been funded by various organizations, including UNHCR and the Australian Research Council. She has served as a consultant for the UNHCR and participated in significant humanitarian projects, such as tsunami relief efforts in Sri Lanka. Notably, she received the Human Rights Medal from the Australian Human Rights and Equal Opportunities Commission in 2001 for her contributions to refugee rights. Eileen has played a prominent role in shaping policy and providing theoretical frameworks for refugee resettlement and social development. Current research projects include assessing risks faced by refugee women in Australia and developing community-based responses to support vulnerable groups. Eileen is also engaged in postgraduate research supervision in areas related to social work and international relations.

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