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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PowerPoint Presentation by the Chairperson of the IAOC
16 Sep 2021 -
Financial report and audited financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2020 and Report of the Board of Auditors (A/76/5/Add.6)
16 Sep 2021 -
Report of the eighty-first meeting of the Standing Committee (5-7 July 2021) (EC/72/SC/CRP.19)
15 Sep 2021 -
Regional update: Southern Africa
15 Sep 2021 -
Regional update: Europe
15 Sep 2021 -
UN High Commissioner for Refugees completes three-day visit to Afghanistan
15 Sep 2021 -
Regional update: Asia and Pacific
15 Sep 2021 -
Organizational note on speaking arrangements
15 Sep 2021 -
Third Academic Roundtable on Climate Change and Displacement in Middle East and North Africa
15 Sep 2021 The Third Academic Roundtable on Climate Change and Displacement in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) brought together 200 participants from 20 countries. This roundtable presented an opportunity to reflect on climate-related challenges in the region. It was particularly significant considering the rising level of climatic effects on the ground, with climate change being a threat multiplier, impacting displaced persons and the communities hosting them.