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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Refugees fight fires to preserve Mauritania's environment
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Centralized evaluations workplan 2022-2023
29 Nov 2021 This document contains the workplan of the UNHCR Evaluation Service for their centralized evaluations happening in the time period 2022 to 2023. -
Representative Concentration Pathways - Climate Risk Profile Sahel region
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Joint initiative announced to enhance KoBoToolbox for data collection and analysis in displacement contexts
29 Nov 2021 -
Summary of Roundtable 3: Partnerships
26 Nov 2021 This document summarizes the roundtable on partnerships - the third of a series of five preparatory roundtables to be held in the lead-up to the High-Level Officials Meeting. -
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Mindy Kaling with Hawa Hassan, Buzzfeed Tasty
26 Nov 2021 -
UNHCR concerned about difficult conditions of indigenous Venezuelans in Guyana
26 Nov 2021 -
Climate Change and Displacement Background Guide Challenge Topic #2
26 Nov 2021 This document serves as a background guide on the topic Climate Change and Displacement for the 2022 Model United Nations Refugee Challenge. -
Finding Durable Solutions for Refugees Background Guide Challenge Topic #1
26 Nov 2021 This document serves as a background guide on the topic Finding Durable Solutions for Refugees for the 2022 Model United Nations Refugee Challenge.