About World Refugee Day 2008
© UNHCR photo
On June 20, we celebrate World Refugee Day. This year, events around the world focus on the fundamental need for protection. For some, this means economic security; for others, protection is freedom from violence and persecution. On World Refugee Day, we turn our attention to the millions of refugees who live without material, social and legal protection.
Since its foundation in 1951, UNHCR has protected tens of millions of refugees. For us, protection consists of tangible improvements in the lives of forcibly displaced people - from the provision of food and shelter to support for those lacking legal status or those wishing to return to their home countries. On World Refugee Day, we commemorate this vital engagement.
Protection is also about raising awareness. We cannot protect refugees if their plight remains invisible. On World Refugee Day, we will highlight the universal nature of protection. Not only are refugees protected all around the globe, but the responsibility for protection is equally global.
Ultimately, protection is a challenge that knows no borders. Neither can it be left to a single agency to provide. On World Refugee Day, we are launching a global call for action. We want to promote engagement at the grassroots level, in local communities, workplaces and online. Only through a global network of supporters can we meet the manifold needs of protection.
How can you help?
Online social utilities provide excellent tools for advocacy. Become a fan on Facebook, support our cause and share our videos, photos and latest news with your friends. You can also find us on MySpace, YouTube and Flickr.
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UNHCR appeals for renewed support and solutions for Rohingya refugees
23 Aug 2022 -
Financial statements for the year 2021 as contained in the Report of the Board of Auditors to the General Assembly on the financial report and audited financial statements of the voluntary funds administered by UNHCR for the year ended 31 December 2021
23 Aug 2022 -
Internal audit in the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees for the period from 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022
23 Aug 2022 This report provides an overview of the internal audit activities undertaken by the Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) in respect of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), covering the period from 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022. It is provided pursuant to the decision of the Executive Committee to consider reports relating to programme and administrative oversight during its annual plenary session. -
Report on activities of the Inspector General's Office
23 Aug 2022 This report covers the work of the Inspector General's Office for the period from July 2021 to June 2022. It is provided pursuant to the decision of the Executive Committee of the High Commissioner's Programme to consider reports relating to programme and administrative oversight and evaluation during its annual plenary session. -
Report on evaluation
23 Aug 2022 This report, covering the period from July 2021 to June 2022, is provided pursuant to the decision of the Executive Committee of the High Commissioner's Programme to consider reports relating to programme and administrative oversight and evaluation during its annual plenary session. -
Bassel and Stella: a musician and his dog's journey to safety in Belgium
22 Aug 2022 -
Tackling sexual exploitation and abuse and sexual harassment: 2020-2022 Strategy and Action plan
22 Aug 2022 During the past two years, UNHCR has made significant progress in tackling sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA) and sexual harassment (SH) within the organization and has contributed equally in doing so within the humanitarian and development sectors. -
Syrian musician and his dog reunited after journey to safety in Belgium
22 Aug 2022 Bassel arrived in Belgium without his constant companion Stella, but through the warmth of strangers they were reunited. -
EvO/2022/09 UNHCR Mexico Country Strategy Evaluation
22 Aug 2022 The Country Strategy Evaluation for Mexico analysed the performance and results of UNHCR's interventions in the country from 2017 until mid-2021. The evaluation is formative in nature and provides recommendations for strengthening UNHCR's institutional and operational role. Attachments: Evaluation Brief, Management Response and Annexes (.zip)