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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Barbara Hendricks performs the song "Motherless Child" at the Nansen Refugee Award ceremony (2015)
10 Jun 2021 -
Maya Ghazal's interview at the WE Day youth empowerment forum
10 Jun 2021 -
Barbara Hendricks - The most urgent story of our time
10 Jun 2021 -
Southern hemisphere winter increases hardship for displaced Venezuelans
9 Jun 2021 -
Southern hemisphere winter increases hardship for displaced Venezuelans
9 Jun 2021 -
Southern winter spells trouble for Venezuelan refugees and migrants
9 Jun 2021 In the southern half of South America, plummeting temperatures bring additional hardships for those living on the streets, adding to the misery brought on by the coronavirus pandemic. -
UNHCR condemns deadliest attack in Burkina Faso in years
8 Jun 2021 -
Global legal community steps up for refugees amid pandemic, providing 165,000 hours of free legal aid
8 Jun 2021 -
Refugees find safety and a new life in Mexico
8 Jun 2021 Since 2016, more than 10,000 refugees have started over in Mexico as entrepreneurs, managers and factory workers through a UNHCR programme.