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 Bangladesh on burden and responsibility sharing (Roundtable on the GCR Indicator launch, panel 1)
1 Dec 2021 Intervention from Bangladesh at the first preparatory roundtable on the GCR Indicator Report, panel on "Burden and responsibility sharing: what have we achieved and where do we go next?" -
Drumming against gender-based violence in Ecuador
1 Dec 2021 -
Summary of Roundtable 4: Self-reliance
1 Dec 2021 This document summarizes the roundtable on self-reliance, the fourth of a series of five preparatory roundtables to be held in the lead-up to the High-Level Officials Meeting. -
News Comment: UNHCR: Afghans struggle to seek safety as borders remain shut to most
1 Dec 2021 -
Evaluation of the Action Access pilot
1 Dec 2021 UNHCR has commissioned NatCen Social Research to undertake an independent evaluation of Action Access, the first pilot in the Community Engagement Pilot (CEP) series. This final evaluation report brings together findings from all elements of the evaluation to identify lessons learned from the Action Access pilot that can inform decision-making around further development and implementation of alternatives to detention in the UK and beyond. Attachments: Evaluation of the Action Access pilot (Executive summary) (.pdf) -
Resettlement Fact Sheet 2021
Dec 2021 -
UNHCR appalled by killings of dozens of displaced people by armed groups in eastern DRC
30 Nov 2021 -
Profiles of panelists: Preparatory Roundtable on Self-reliance
30 Nov 2021 Short profiles of all panelists who were part of the Preparatory Roundtable on Self-reliance. -
Refugees Fight Fires To Save Their Environment
30 Nov 2021