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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Statement of the Republic of Kenya
15 Dec 2021 -
Statement of UNDP Plenary by Ms. Agi VERES
15 Dec 2021 -
Statement of UN Women
15 Dec 2021 -
RWANDA-A new approach to emergencies bears fruit in Rwanda
14 Dec 2021 -
Statement of Switzerland - Climate Change Greening spotlight
14 Dec 2021 -
UNHCR, States, partners meet today to assess Global Refugee Forum's progress
14 Dec 2021 High Level Officials Meeting takes place 14–15 December -
Statement of Bangladesh
14 Dec 2021 -
Refugee Statement delivered at the Opening of the High-Level Officials Meeting (English language)
14 Dec 2021 -
Summary: Operational Strategy for Climate Resilience and Environmental Sustainability 2022-2025
14 Dec 2021 The UNHCR Operational Strategy for Climate Resilience and Environmental Sustainability 2022-2025 outlines ways to improve the predictability of our engagement to anticipate and prepare for emergencies brought on by climate-related and other natural hazards and enhance the preparedness and resilience of displaced people and host communities to the effects of climate change. We incorporate climate and environmental consideration in our operational responses and are also working to "green" our end-to-end supply chain and to improve our supply planning, as well as the sourcing, contents, manufacturing process, procurement and delivery and lifecycle management of core relief items and other UNHCR goods.