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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News comment: UNHCR latest update on deteriorating situation of Eritrean refugees in Tigray
15 Jul 2021 This news comment is attributable to Ann Encontre, UNHCR Representative in Ethiopia -
Displaced Afghan family struggles to cope amid latest violence
15 Jul 2021 A widowed mother-of-four struggling to take care of her family in a camp is among the 270,000 Afghans displaced since the start of the year by the latest upsurge in fighting. -
The High Commissioner's Championship in review
13 Jul 2021 -
PowerPoint Presentation
13 Jul 2021 -
Statement by UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi on the situation of Eritrean refugees in Ethiopia's Tigray Region
13 Jul 2021 -
IASC Promising Practices Organizational Culture
13 Jul 2021 -
UNHCR warns of imminent humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan
13 Jul 2021 -
Working with Persons with Disabilities in Forced Displacement Facilitator's Guide
12 Jul 2021 The Division of International Protection (DIP) together with the Global Learning and Development Centre (GLDC) developed the Working with Persons with Disabilities in Forced Displacement Facilitator's Guide. The Guide is composed of four modules which can be used separately or jointly in strengthening capacity of UNHCR staff and partners on work with persons with disabilities in forced displacement settings. Topics include understanding disability, disability and forced displacement, and key strategies to foster inclusion. -
Expelled asylum seekers 'crying out for help' in northern Mexico
12 Jul 2021 Removed from the United States, asylum-seekers fear for their safety in northern Mexico and deadly violence if they return to their Central American homelands.