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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Oxfam International - Statement to the UNHCR's High-Level Officials Meeting of the Global Refugee Forum, December 2021
17 Jan 2022 -
Displaced Burkinabes find a home as their host finds his purpose
17 Jan 2022 Lambda, a resident of Burkina Faso's Tougouri region, has become a symbol of hope for hundreds of displaced Burkinabes who have found shelter in his home. -
Open Letter to the Delegates of the High Level Officials Meeting from members of the Global Refugee Forum Legal Community Pledge
17 Jan 2022 -
Statement of the League of Arab States
17 Jan 2022 -
Decade of Sahel conflict leaves 2.5 million people displaced
14 Jan 2022 -
UNHCR mourns passing of distinguished ex-staff member, Leonardo Franco
14 Jan 2022 -
Refugee Education Statistics: Issues and Recommendations
14 Jan 2022 This joint report with UNESCO-UIS undertakes a comprehensive review of data sources to uncover the reasons for the shortage of data on refugee education and further suggests ways to address the shortage. -
Transition to secondary education
14 Jan 2022 This education research brief identifies the key challenges faced in the transition to secondary education and the support mechanisms in place to address those challenges in four case study countries – Egypt, Ethiopia, Malaysia and Uganda. -
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