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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Middle East and North Africa Global Refugee Forum Stocktaking and NGO/Civil Society Consultations Outcome Report
15 Sep 2021 The MENA Global Refugee Forum Stocktaking and NGO/Civil Society Consultations took place on 20 – 21 April 2021, bringing together over 150 participants from Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Tunisia, Morocco, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania; participants from regional organizations and multi-stakeholder partners. It included discussions on the practical ways in which actors are advancing the GCR and implementing GRF pledges, considering COVID-19, and considering the evolving challenges and opportunities on the ground. -
What is Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment?
All UN personnel should report sexual exploitation and abuse. Regarding sexual harassment, UNHCR's position is clear: Sexual harassment in the workplace is unacceptable and must be eradicated from operations. -
Forced To Flee: UNHCR podcast tells story of displacement over 70 years
14 Sep 2021 To mark UNHCR's 70th anniversary, a new seven-part series revisits major upheavals that shaped the period through the eyes of displaced people and others caught up in events. -
Forced to Flee #PODCAST | TRAILER
14 Sep 2021 -
Statement at the High-level Ministerial Meeting on the Humanitarian Situation in Afghanistan
13 Sep 2021 -
Key issues and measures taken in response to the Report of the Board of Auditors for 2020 (A/AC.96/1212/Add.1)
13 Sep 2021 -
A Victim-Centred Approach
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Equip and Empower
This strategy serves as a guide for the tangible actions we take in the prevention of and response to sexual exploitation, abuse, and sexual harassment. This includes implementing a policy on a victim centre approach, having focal points in operations dedicated to the prevention of and response to sexual exploitation and abuse and having a victim care officer supporting survivors of sexual harassment. -
Accountability
Sexual misconduct is rooted in a culture of discrimination and privilege based on gender inequalities and power imbalances. Eradicating sexual misconduct requires a change in individual attitudes and organizational culture.