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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War uproots Ukrainian widow from lifelong home in Mykolaiv
14 Jul 2022 After the house she built with her late husband went from sanctuary to bomb shelter, 83-year-old Svetlana left her beloved garden behind to seek safety as a refugee. -
Online Donation Refund Policy
Decisions on refunds will be made on a case-by-case basis after analysis of the particular circumstances of the donation. Check our Online Donation Refund Policy page for more information. -
UNHCR survey finds refugees from Ukraine hope to go home
13 Jul 2022 Refugees will need continued support until they are able to return. -
High Commissioner's Dialogue on Protection Challenges: Development Cooperation Concept Note
12 Jul 2022 This note sets out the concept for the 2022 High Commissioner's Dialogue on Protection Challenges. The Dialogue provides a forum for an informal, open, and lively multi-stakeholder discussion on emerging issues linked to displacement and statelessness. In 2022, it will focus on the theme of development cooperation to advance protection, inclusion, and solutions for displaced and stateless persons and will be held in Geneva on 7 and 8 December. -
For many displaced people in Latin America, new lives start in the kitchen
12 Jul 2022 In a new cookbook, refugees and displaced people in the Americas and the Caribbean share their stories and the flavours of home – past and present. -
Draft provisional agenda and annotations
12 Jul 2022 -
2022 Executive Committee session
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High Commissioner's Dialogue on Protection Challenges: Development Cooperation
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Overview of the Geneva Technical Hub
8 Jul 2022 The Geneva Technical Hub (GTH) brings together Swiss academia and expert practitioners to tackle complex technical problems, share learnings, and find solutions that can be applied in diverse UNHCR operational contexts.