Shuting Xia

As Head of Research at Na’amal, I lead the organisation’s research strategy to advance inclusive digital opportunities. I facilitate securing research funding, and oversee the design, implementation, and dissemination of research projects that tackle key challenges in digital livelihoods. By presenting findings at global forums, collaborating with international partners, and producing high-impact publications and advocacy materials, I drive actionable insights, foster innovation, and influence policies to create sustainable and equitable digital employment ecosystems. Key projects include: UNHCR Advocacy Project (2024–Present) Co-leading the development of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)’s Inclusive Digital Economy Advocacy Toolkits in collaboration with AMS, equipping humanitarian actors with evidence-based strategies and practical resources to advocate for refugee access to remote digital work, engage effectively with employers, platforms and policymakers, and position refugee inclusion as a driver of economic innovation and global workforce resilience. World Bank Digital Livelihoods Project (2023-present) Leading the qualitative research component of a World Bank-funded project in collaboration with Yale University, utilising focus groups to evaluate the impact of mentorship and training programmes on refugee digital livelihoods, generating actionable insights to advance inclusive employment strategies and refugee economic empowerment.

As a Research Consultant at Na’amal, I led and contributed to critical projects addressing digital labour platform ecosystem, digital livelihoods and inclusive employment for refugees and displaced persons. Leveraging qualitative and mixed-methods research, I collaborated with international organisations to produce actionable insights and influence global policies and practices. Key Projects include: Digital Labour Platforms and Employment | ILO (2022-present) Investigated the transformative impact of digital labour platforms, analysing demand-side challenges and opportunities through surveys, interviews, and case studies. Contributed to key ILO publications shaping global labour policies and innovation strategies. Digital Livelihoods for Refugees | Finn Church Aid (2023) Conducted 30+ interviews with leading organisations, uncovering barriers and opportunities for refugees in accessing digital livelihoods. Published findings that informed partner strategies and guided inclusive employment initiatives for displaced populations. Decent and Inclusive Work for Forcibly Displaced Persons | ILO, UNDP & UNHCR (2023) Documented emerging practices from digital platforms enabling remote work for refugees and host communities. Delivered evidence-based recommendations based on 12 expert interviews to improve access to sustainable, decent work for vulnerable groups.

Conducted qualitative analysis of 12 focus group interviews and quantitative analysis of national UK survey data to examine the impact of workplace technology on workers’ wellbeing and life capabilities, co-authoring three working papers and one book chapter to advance research and thought leadership on the future of work.

Created a database of 113 global think tanks to support strategic policy analysis, led a 50-member international translation team to deliver precise multilingual publications, and directed a 28-person editorial team to produce over 50 volumes of Global Think Tank Insights, enhancing knowledge dissemination and influencing policy decisions.