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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Young Champions for Refugees
Making youth part of the solution -
Joint press release after the meeting between High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell and UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi
11 May 2021 -
Myanmar refugees: key protection messages and definitions
10 May 2021 With over 10,000 refugees fleeing Myanmar in just three months since February 2021 because of violence and the deteriorating situation in Myanmar and neighboring countries in the region are witnessing increasing arrivals of Myanmar nationals seeking international protection -
Opening Remarks by United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi at joint press point with European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson
10 May 2021 -
Series of attacks force thousands to flee in Burkina Faso
7 May 2021 -
World Refugee Day 2021 - Toolkit (PDF)
7 May 2021 A toolkit for World Refugee Day 2021 including this year's key messaging, ideas for events and mobilization activities as well as contact details. -
La colaboración de ACNUR con las instituciones nacionales de derechos humanos
6 May 2021 -
'It's a wonderful job, but I'd love not to do it'
6 May 2021 UNHCR has more than 17,300 staff, most of whom are based in the field. Meet Kristin Riis Halvorsen, who runs operations in southern Mexico. -
Eritrean refugees family finds sweetness in transit to new life
6 May 2021