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.
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Football unites with UNHCR and WFP in a global appeal for the people of Ukraine
29 Mar 2022 -
Climate change, displacement and human rights
29 Mar 2022 Displacement in climate change-fuelled crises is already a global reality – a reality that reflects and amplifies the deep inequalities and injustices in our world today. Countries and communities that have contributed the least to global warming are bearing the brunt of its negative impact. -
#Football4Ukraine - Football unites with UNHCR and WFP
29 Mar 2022 -
South Sudanese battle record floods amid rapidly changing climate
29 Mar 2022 -
South Sudanese battle record floods amid rapidly changing climate
29 Mar 2022 Help is urgently needed ahead of the rainy season for the most vulnerable among 835,000 people hit by flooding in the world's youngest nation. -
Football unites in global appeal for the United Nations response to Ukraine
29 Mar 2022 As the number of refugees fleeing Ukraine approaches four million, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency and World Food Programme (WFP) launch the Football for Ukraine Emergency Appeal'. -
Informal briefings and meetings in 2021
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UNHCR lauds Philippines' accession to 1961 statelessness convention
25 Mar 2022 -
Number of displaced Nicaraguans in Costa Rica doubles in less than a year
25 Mar 2022