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.
-
For displaced Venezuelans, regularization is the key to building productive lives
23 Jun 2021 Far-reaching regularization schemes in Colombia and Ecuador are providing a lifeline to Venezuelan refugees and migrants who long to become self-sufficient. -
UNHCR warns of vaccine gap risk for world's stateless
22 Jun 2021 -
Using Socioeconomic Evidence in Forcibly Displaced Contexts Vol 1 June 2021
22 Jun 2021 This is a compilation of examples of UNHCR's uses of socioeconomic evidence in forcibly displaced contexts. -
Assessing the Socioeconomic Impact of COVID-19 on Persons of Concern in Lebanon
22 Jun 2021 Based on high-frequency phone surveys conducted by UNHCR, these thematic notes analyses how COVID-19 has impacted PoC populations in a few key countries. -
Assessing the Socioeconomic Impact of COVID-19 on Persons of Concern in Nigeria
22 Jun 2021 Based on high-frequency phone surveys conducted by UNHCR, these thematic notes analyses how COVID-19 has impacted PoC populations in a few key countries. -
21st Berlin Conference on Refugee Rights, 21 June 2021, Speech by Assistant High Commissioner for Protection Ms Gillian Triggs
21 Jun 2021 -
UEFA and UNHCR team up to congratulate UEFA Football and Refugees Grant Scheme winners
21 Jun 2021 On occasion of World Refugee Day UEFA and UNHCR recognise six national associations who have helped refugees integrate into society -
Previous consultations with NGOS
-
Moving forward on the #CleanEnergyChallenge
21 Jun 2021