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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My advice to other kids as a refugee from Ukraine? Appreciate what you have
18 May 2022 Back in Odesa, teenager Daria used to fret about schoolwork and her relationships with family and friends. After fleeing conflict, she urges others her age not to worry about the small stuff. -
Ukrainian refugees find warm welcome in neighbouring Moldova
18 May 2022 While many move on, Olga and her children are among 100,000 Ukrainians staying in Moldova, where people and the authorities are offering support with help from UNHCR. -
Multi-sectoral site assessment form
18 May 2022 This form includes key guidelines for the selection of new sites for camps and the extension of existing sites. -
World Higher Education Conference 2022 Agenda: Refugee Higher Education in Situations of Conflict & Fragility
18 May 2022 -
Strengthening partnerships with higher education institutions to support inclusive higher education systems
18 May 2022 -
This Venezuelan is fighting for LGBTIQ+ rights in Ecuador (IDAHOT)
17 May 2022 -
Gay activist strives to make her host country more inclusive for all refugees
17 May 2022 During her journey to safety, Yeraldine, a lesbian from Venezuela, faced much of the same discrimination as she had back home. On IDAHOTB, she talks about her efforts to make Ecuador a more inclusive place. -
UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi's message on the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia
17 May 2022 -
UNHCR joins call to save lives at sea
16 May 2022