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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UNHCR calls on states to remove barriers to access to COVID-19 vaccines for refugees
24 Jun 2021 -
From refugee to saviour: the story of Majed and Joseba
24 Jun 2021 After being resettled to Spain, Syrian refugee Majed became a friend and carer to Joseba, the butcher who gave him a job. -
UN agencies welcome relocation of 4,000 asylum seekers and refugees from Greece
24 Jun 2021 IOM, UNHCR and UNICEF jointly encourage further steps towards a predictable, systematic European relocation mechanism. -
Regional data on refugee inclusion in COVID-19 vaccination
24 Jun 2021 -
Guidance on Promoting Child Protection Outcomes through CBI: full guidance
24 Jun 2021 This guidance has been developed to assist the use of cash-based interventions to further child protection outcomes. It draws on existing knowledge and practice from UNHCR and other sources, and reflects input from a number of UNHCR stakeholders in country operations, at the regional level, as well as the Global Cash Operations and the Field Protection Service's Child Protection Unit at headquarters. -
Artistic Venezuelan family finds hope in regularization
23 Jun 2021 -
UN High Commissioner for Refugees praises Latin America for its commitment to the inclusion of all those in need of protection
23 Jun 2021 -
UN Refugee Agency releases 2022 resettlement needs
23 Jun 2021 -
Sport and entertainment talent "in conversation" with the IOC Refugee Olympic Team Tokyo 2020
23 Jun 2021 Joint IOC/UNHCR/Discovery Press Release