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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Data visualization brings to light COVID-19's threats to forcibly displaced women and children
5 Jul 2021 -
UNHCR's Assistant High Commissioner for Protection Gillian Triggs among laureates of inaugural Ruth Bader Ginsburg Medal of Honor
5 Jul 2021 -
Displaced nurses provide vital health care to others displaced in Ethiopia's Tigray
5 Jul 2021 As UNHCR and other aid agencies scale up the humanitarian response in conflict-torn Tigray, local communities and the displaced are pulling together to support one another. -
Data points to negative impacts of COVID-19 for forcibly displaced women and children
5 Jul 2021 A new data visualization shows how the pandemic has deepened the risks of violence and abuse for displaced women and children. -
Displacement leaves families struggling to adapt in Lake Chad region
2 Jul 2021 Years after fleeing jihadist attacks, many displaced people in Chad's Lake Province still cannot return home and are trying to rebuild their lives as best as they can. -
'Every little act of kindness will be remembered'
2 Jul 2021 Once a refugee of the war in Viet Nam and now a US Army Colonel, Danielle Ngo has a message for everyone on America's Independence Day. -
Age, Gender and Diversity Accountability Report 2020
2 Jul 2021 This report provides an analysis of data on the implementation of the Age, Gender and Diversity (AGD) Policy and the progress made in 2020 against the areas of engagement and 10 minimum core actions set forth by the policy. It provides examples from operations across all regions on AGD inclusive programming, accountability to affected people (AAP) and gender equality (GE). -
Every little act of kindness will be remembered
2 Jul 2021 -
Mapping of protection services for victims of trafficking and other vulnerable people on the move in the Sahel and East Africa
2 Jul 2021 The report maps out services available for asylum-seekers, refugees and migrants who have suffered abuses, including trafficking, along the migratory route in the Sahel and East Africa