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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Critical gaps in refugee education: two thirds of refugee youth might never get to secondary school
7 Sep 2021 -
UNHCR Policy Brief - Uganda Employment
7 Sep 2021 Using socioeconomic evidence to promote solutions for refugees in Uganda. -
Regional Consultation on The EU's New pact for Migration and Asylum
7 Sep 2021 Organised by UNHCR, the European Council on Refugees and Exiles (ECRE) and the International Council of Voluntary Agencies (ICVA), regional Dialogues with NGOs aim at ensuring regular and two-way communication between UNHCR and NGOs in Europe on topics of common interest, as well as identifying areas for jointand complementary advocacy. -
UNHCR Education Report 2021: 'Staying the course' - The challenges facing refugee education
7 Sep 2021 The UNHCR Education Report 2021 focuses in particular on secondary education – the crucial yet critically under-resourced stage for refugees towards greater independence and improved prospects in life. -
We decide how to treat refugees - it's dehumanizing to deprive them of an education
7 Sep 2021 For the launch of the UNHCR 2021 Education Report, US author and vlogger John Green says learning opportunities for refugee children are utterly inadequate and the world must acknowledge their right to an education. -
What they took with them
6 Sep 2021 -
Refugee Paralympians leave legacy of hope as Tokyo Games conclude
5 Sep 2021 After competing with pride and receiving an outpouring of support in Japan and beyond, the Refugee Paralympic Team showed the power of inclusion for displaced people with disabilities. -
2021 Regional NGO Consultations in the Americas - Concept note on localization (Spanish)
3 Sep 2021 -
Multi-Religious Council of Leaders
3 Sep 2021