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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30 March 2022 Agenda - Informal briefing on the Global Compact on Refugees
25 Mar 2022 Agenda for the first virtual quarterly informal briefing on the Global Compact on Refugees held virtually on Wednesday, 30 March 2022, 15:00-17:00 hours CET -
A month since the start of the war, almost a quarter of Ukraine's population are displaced
25 Mar 2022 -
High Level Officials Meeting 2021 Outcome Document
25 Mar 2022 This is the Outcome Document for the High-Level Officials Meeting, held on 14 and 15 December 2021. -
Roadmap to the Global Refugee Forum in 2023
25 Mar 2022 Roadmap to the next Global Refugee Forum that will be held in 2023 under the Global Compact on Refugees. -
Summary of Key Recommendations and Follow-Up Actions from the 2021 High-Level Officials Meeting
25 Mar 2022 Twenty key recommendations for the future were identified as a part of the stocktaking in the lead-up to and during the High-Level Officials Meeting (HLOM) in 2021. -
Résumé des principales recommandations et des mesures de suivi - Réunion de hauts responsables de 2021
25 Mar 2022 Lors de la préparation et de la tenue de la Réunion de hauts responsables, vingt principales recommandations pour l'avenir ont été identifiées dans le cadre des opérations d'évaluation. -
UNHCR and the European Union launch 360-degree interactive film on Venezuelan displacement in Ecuador
24 Mar 2022 -
News comment: Without international solidarity, Ukraine's displacement crisis could turn into catastrophe
24 Mar 2022 Statement by UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi -
UNHCR partners with FC Barcelona to bring the power of sport to displaced children
24 Mar 2022