About World Refugee Day 2008

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.

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter

mhGAP HIG Training Materials

11 Apr 2022

The mental health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP) is a WHO programme that seeks to address the lack of care for people suffering from mental, neurological and substance use (MNS) conditions. The mhGAP-IG is a clinical guide for general health-care providers who work in non-specialized health-care settings, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The mhGAP-HIG was developed in order to address specific challenges in humanitarian emergency settings.

UNHCR Country Strategy Evaluation: Zambia

11 Apr 2022

Zambia hosts the longest-standing refugee settlement in Africa, at Mayukwayukwa. It was established in 1966 and UNHCR has been actively engaged in the country since that time. As part of its 2020 workplan, UNHCR's Evaluation Service commissioned an independent evaluation team to conduct a Zambia country strategy evaluation for the period 2015 to 2020. The purpose of this forward-looking evaluation is to generate evidence to inform UNHCR's future operational planning and strategy in Zambia. The evaluation also aims to provide inputs into UNHCR Zambia's multi-year planning strategy beyond 2022.