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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2022 WASH Annual Report
20 Mar 2023 The 2022 annual report provides an overview of WASH service provision in the UNHCR's operations. It highlights achievements in UNHCR's global efforts to ensure universal and equitable access to water, sanitation, and hygiene services that are environmentally sustainable to refugees and the host communities. -
High Commissioner's remarks at the International Donors' Conference 'Together for the people in Türkiye and Syria' in Brussels, Belgium
20 Mar 2023 -
UNHCR statement on Bangladesh, Myanmar bilateral pilot project on Rohingya returns
19 Mar 2023 -
UNHCR statement on Bangladesh, Myanmar bilateral pilot project on Rohingya returns
19 Mar 2023 -
High Commissioner's speech at the International Conference in Solidarity with Venezuelan Refugees and Migrants and their Host Countries and Communities in Brussels, Belgium
17 Mar 2023 -
Earthquake survivors in Türkiye count the devastating toll
17 Mar 2023 Ahmet Erkan and his family escaped last month's disaster with their lives, but like many they lost loved ones and their home and now face a long and uncertain road to recovery. -
Film world shows solidarity with refugees at Oscars and beyond
16 Mar 2023 More than 40 nominees and presenters at this year's major film awards wore UNHCR's #WithRefugees blue ribbon, culminating in strong support at 2023 Oscars ceremony. -
Across borders, South Sudan's displaced call for peace
16 Mar 2023 In the face of protracted conflict and climate-fuelled crises, those displaced within and from South Sudan jointly call for an end to conflict. -
Twelve years on, Syrian refugees face deepening debt and hunger
15 Mar 2023 As their displacement drags on and host countries struggle with multiple crises, Syrian refugees around the region are slipping further into poverty.